OpenAI introduces new ChatGPT and Disney characters.

In the AI ​​development race, pioneer OpenAI has released a new version of its chatbot ChatGPT. ChatGPT 5.2 is said to be improved, among other things, at programming software, finding information, and executing multi-step tasks.

OpenAI has recently come under pressure, especially after Google released its new competing model, Gemini 3.

However, CEO Sam Altman told CNBC that Gemini 3 had impacted ChatGPT usage less than OpenAI had feared. He also confirmed, however, that the arrival of the new Gemini competitor had triggered a "red alert" within his company.

ChatGPT currently boasts over 800 million weekly users, while Google's Gemini app reaches over 650 million monthly users. Some analysts and industry observers believe Google may have a better long-term outlook because its search engine is more deeply embedded in users' daily lives.

Deal with Disney

Users of the Sora video app from ChatGPT developer OpenAI will soon be able to create AI-generated videos featuring themselves alongside Disney characters, from Mickey Mouse to Iron Man. As part of the deal, Disney is investing one billion US dollars (795 million Swiss francs) and securing options for further shares.

ChatGPT users will soon be able to generate images featuring more than 200 Disney characters using artificial intelligence. This is something that copyright restrictions usually prevent.

Disney will also become a customer of OpenAI, using the company's AI software for the Disney+ streaming service, among other things, and will make the ChatGPT chatbot available to its employees.

Since autumn, OpenAI's Sora app has allowed users to create short video clips featuring themselves and their friends. Initially, the app allowed the use of copyrighted characters, and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman suggested that copyright holders who objected should file a complaint. However, after a few days, OpenAI changed course and decided to pursue deals like the one they recently made with Disney.

Disney plans to expand its presence on digital platforms.

OpenAI has been facing lawsuits from several authors and media outlets alleging that its artificial intelligence software was trained illegally using their intellectual property.

The Disney characters, played by humans, will only appear in animated form in the OpenAI apps as part of the deal. The actors' voices will also not be used, the companies announced.

The licensing agreement for the use of Disney characters is initially for three years. These characters come from Pixar animated films, the Marvel Universe, Star Wars, and other sources. This is part of Disney's plan to expand its presence on digital platforms. The entertainment giant is also collaborating with the creators of the online game "Fortnite."

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