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Disney has been quietly advancing a robot prototype that is slated to appear at the company’s upcoming theme park projects, based on early data shared with the press. The information first surfaced through Gizmodo and has since circulated as a notable early glimpse into what the parks may feature when they debut new experiences for guests.

Visually, the project draws direct inspiration from Judy Hopps, the determined rabbit hero from the animated film Zootopia. The robot’s outward design mirrors Judy, inviting speculation about character-driven meet-and-greets and interactive demonstrations. At this stage, the exterior remains a work in progress, yet observers can already spot distinctive elements such as roller skates, a helmet, and a vest that hint at the showmanship and mobility the device aims to demonstrate. During the demonstration, the robo-rabbit executed a brief skate sequence, performed a somersault, and demonstrated the ability to recover and stand after a fall, signaling a focus on balance and controlled movement. These moments were presented to give audiences a tangible sense of how the robot might operate in a live setting when guests are nearby, both for safety and entertainment purposes. (Gizmodo)

Disney Parks has described the prototype as capable of performing a range of movements and tricks once the system is fully integrated into park experiences. While the first public showcases show promising agility, the more advanced acrobatic sequences associated with Judy Hopps, including complex flips and precise balance routines, are still being refined. The development team appears to be prioritizing reliability, guest safety, and interaction quality as they push toward more sophisticated performance capabilities. (Gizmodo)

Plans for a new Zootopia-themed park area in Shanghai have been announced, with expectations for it to open in the near future and to feature a family of robots designed to entertain visitors. The Shanghai project aligns with Disney’s broader strategy of bringing beloved characters to life through autonomous or semi-autonomous media-driven props, enhancing guest engagement while maintaining high standards for safety and performance. As these prototypes progress, industry observers are watching closely to see how such figures will blend with live performers and other attractions, creating immersive storytelling moments that feel both magical and credible. (Gizmodo)

Earlier discussions from related tech and entertainment outlets noted similar lines of development in other spaces, including a separate report about a robotic canine patrol used in a data center environment by Digital Realty. This case underscores a growing trend in applying advanced robotics to both serviceable, entertaining roles in public venues and operational, security-oriented tasks in controlled environments. It also illustrates how brands are experimenting with mobility, sensing, and autonomous control to achieve practical outcomes alongside entertainment value. (Digital Realty report)

In summary, Disney’s current demonstrations place Judy-inspired robotics at the core of a broader concept camera for guests—an approach that blends character familiarity with cutting-edge motion and control technologies. The trajectory suggests a future where park guests experience more interactive, character-driven performances that leverage robotic platforms to extend storytelling beyond traditional meets and greets. As the Shanghai project progresses toward launch, fans and observers can anticipate further updates on how these robots will behave, respond to crowds, and integrate with the park’s overall narrative architecture. (Gizmodo)