Disney's OpenAI deal is exclusive for just one year — then it's open season
DisneyDisney(US:DIS) TechCrunch·2025-12-15 22:17

Group 1 - Disney has entered a three-year licensing partnership with OpenAI, which includes a one-year exclusivity period for the use of its characters in OpenAI's Sora video generator [1] - The partnership allows OpenAI to utilize over 200 characters from Disney, Marvel, Pixar, and Star Wars, making it the only AI platform legally permitted to do so [2] - The deal provides Disney an opportunity to explore generative AI and assess the effectiveness of its collaboration with OpenAI before considering further agreements [2] Group 2 - Disney's CEO Bob Iger expressed a proactive stance towards technological advancements, indicating that the company will adapt to potential disruptions in its business models [3] - On the same day as the OpenAI partnership announcement, Disney issued a cease-and-desist letter to Google, claiming copyright infringement, although Google has not confirmed or denied the allegations [3]