Disney Invests $1B in OpenAI, Warns Google Over Copyright Use of Disney characters

Disney has announced a sweeping shift in its artificial intelligence strategy, revealing a $1 billion investment in OpenAI alongside a formal licensing agreement involving more than 200 of its most iconic characters. At the same time, the company has issued a legal threat against Google over alleged unauthorized use of Disney-owned content for AI training.

The entertainment giant confirmed that it has entered into a three-year IP licensing deal with OpenAI. Under this agreement, characters from Disney, Marvel, Pixar, and Star Wars will be available through OpenAI’s upcoming Sora video generation tool, enabling users to create short-form videos featuring officially sanctioned Disney assets. The feature is expected to launch in early 2026.

Disney’s move represents a landmark development for the entertainment and technology sectors. It marks the first major Hollywood studio to formally license its intellectual property to a leading generative AI company, signaling a new era of collaboration between traditional media and AI platforms.

In contrast to this partnership, Disney is preparing to pursue legal action against Google, alleging that the company’s AI systems improperly used copyrighted Disney material without permission. The claim underscores the growing tension between content owners and technology companies over the use of copyrighted data in model training.

Industry analysts say Disney’s dual approach—embracing AI innovation while protecting its intellectual property—illustrates a decisive and calculated response to the rapidly expanding influence of generative AI in entertainment.

With a multibillion-dollar investment, expansive licensing terms, and the possibility of a high-profile legal challenge ahead, Disney has positioned itself at the center of the emerging intersection of media, AI technology, and copyright law.