Boston Dynamics and Disney showcase advancements in robotics and AI

Boston Dynamics is advancing its humanoid robot, Atlas, which is designed to operate in environments built for humans. Standing 1.9 metres tall and weighing 90 kilograms, Atlas features 56 degrees of freedom and can lift up to 50 kilograms. The robot can navigate autonomously, including self-charging, and can learn new tasks to share with other units. In September 2026, Boston Dynamics opened a training centre at a Hyundai Motor Group facility in Georgia, United States, to train Atlas for automotive part handling and assembly. Hyundai aims to eventually deploy 25,000 robots across its global network. Additionally, Boston Dynamics is collaborating with Google DeepMind to enhance the robot's artificial intelligence.

In a separate application of emerging technology, the Disney Accelerator program is investing heavily in artificial intelligence. Recent demonstrations included a Boston Dynamics quadruped robot equipped with FieldAI hardware and startups using digital twins for virtual focus group testing. Disney is focusing on integrating AI into existing workflows, particularly within its theme park divisions, to ensure artists remain involved in the creative process.