Since its inception as an MIT spinoff, Boston Dynamics’ systems have always been entertaining. The firm has embraced this by releasing numerous viral videos over the years.
However, entertainment was not the primary focus until now. The company has just announced a partnership with Neon, a Singapore-based entertainment brand, indicating a shift in focus.
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Of particular relevance, Neon is the parent company of Animax Designs, a Nashville-based firm that has created animatronics for major Hollywood franchises such as Avatar, Jurassic Park, Marvel, and Harry Potter.
Although no specific details have been revealed, the deal aims to culminate in a 2024 reveal that promises to captivate audiences. Whether this involves theme park robots or something different remains unknown.
Neon/Animax stands to benefit greatly from Boston Dynamics’ ability to produce robust and untethered autonomous systems at scale. Theme park robotics has evolved, with Disneyland’s Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge offering interactive robots that engage with visitors.
“We are excited about the collaboration with Neon and Animax for the development of fully untethered entertainment robots,” said Boston Dynamics Chief Strategy Officer Marc Theermann. “These highly interactive creatures are set to captivate consumers through innovative engagements. By partnering with Neon, a leader in immersive storytelling, we are merging our advanced technology with their enchanting storytelling expertise.”
This deal represents another step in Boston Dynamics’ commercialization journey, which began with the Spot quadruped and the truck unloading robot, Stretch. The company has a longstanding connection to entertainment, with Marc Raibert and his team also creating robots for the set of the 1993 film “Rising Sun.”
