Tech & Biz

Wireless Robots Loose at Disney

by clorenz1 | March 2, 2007 at 11:16 am

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Disney has released wireless robots into its theme park. Does anyone remember the Simpsons' episode when they go to Itchy and Scratchy Land, and then the remote robots go on a rampage, they used Terminator-esque vision to determine who to be friends with and who was other. Perhaps executives missed that episode. People in giant costumes are creepy, but wireless robots are that much more creepy. But I guess it is all for the kids, right?

Disney's most advanced robotic creation to date makes the costumed, mute Winnie the Poohs and Donald Ducks seem like felt-covered relics, though Disney executives are quick to reassure that the beloved, autograph-signing cast isn't going anywhere.

"This is an incredibly compelling and powerful way to experience the characters," said Bruce Vaughn, vice president of Walt Disney Imagineering's research and development division.

"They are fully aware of the people in their presence and can call you by name. It is a 100% live experience."