Disney World is ushering in a new era of theme park technology, introducing advanced animatronics designed to make beloved characters feel more lifelike than ever before. From a dancing cheetah in Zootopia to upgraded faces in Frozen Ever After, these updates combine artistry and robotics to elevate storytelling and guest immersion.
As Walt Disney once said, “Disneyland will never be completed,” and that philosophy still drives the company today. This time, through cutting-edge Audio-Animatronic innovation that redefines what’s possible in theme park experiences.
Major Animatronic Additions and Upgrades
Frozen Ever After (EPCOT)
Beginning in early 2026, Frozen Ever After will debut new, more realistic animatronic figures for Anna, Elsa, and Kristoff. The updated designs will replace the ride’s current projection-based facial expressions with fully mechanical, expressive faces similar to those used in newer international versions of the attraction. The change aims to create smoother animation and a more natural look for guests visiting Arendelle.
Zootopia: Better Zoogether! (Animal Kingdom)
Opening on November 7, 2025, this new 4D show will feature an original Audio-Animatronic of Benjamin Clawhauser, the upbeat cheetah from Disney’s Zootopia. Outfitted in neon accessories and his signature “Gazelle” shirt, Clawhauser will appear live in the theater, interacting with the audience as part of the storytelling experience inside the Tree of Life Theater.
Carousel of Progress (Magic Kingdom)
A new Walt Disney animatronic will soon join this beloved attraction in a redesigned introductory scene. The addition, announced during Destination D23, pays tribute to Disney himself — whose innovation led to the very creation of Audio-Animatronics in the 1960s. Fans see this as both a heartfelt nod to Disney history and a bridge to the future of theme park technology.
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Re-theme (Hollywood Studios)
As part of an upcoming re-theme to The Muppets, the popular coaster will introduce a brand-new Audio-Animatronic of Scooter in the preshow area. The character will help set the stage for the reimagined ride, blending humor with state-of-the-art movement and lighting.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure (Magic Kingdom)
After opening in summer 2024, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure introduced more than a dozen all-new animatronics featuring characters like Tiana, Mama Odie, and Louis the alligator. Each figure showcases advanced fluid motion, facial articulation, and expressive detailing that represent the next generation of Disney’s Audio-Animatronic storytelling.
A Technical Evolution
Disney Imagineers are shifting away from older projection-based designs in favor of mechanical facial animation, which offers more consistent realism and durability. The new animatronics rely on advanced servos and all-electric motion systems, allowing smoother gestures, micro-expressions, and a broader emotional range.
These innovations aim to make each attraction feel alive in new ways — merging technology and artistry so that guests can believe the characters are truly right in front of them.
Whether it’s Clawhauser’s glowing grin, a more expressive Elsa, or Walt Disney himself welcoming guests once again, these updates ensure that every visit to Disney World feels both familiar and brand new.