Disney World is constantly evolving, and it’s easy to miss significant updates if you’re not paying close attention. This week brought exciting changes, from ride overlays to technological innovations and even a heartfelt farewell. Get ready to dive into the three biggest updates from Disney World this week!
First, we’ll explore the new Tron: Ares overlay at Tron Lightcycle / Run, bringing a fresh visual and auditory experience. Next, we’ll examine Disney’s groundbreaking patent for more lifelike animatronics. Finally, we’ll honor Gino the gorilla, a beloved member of the Animal Kingdom family who recently passed away.
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a tech enthusiast, or an animal lover, there’s something for everyone in this week’s Disney World news. Let’s get started!
TRON Lightcycle / Run Gets a TRON: Ares Overlay
Tron Lightcycle / Run has quickly become a Magic Kingdom favorite. The thrill of launching into the digital grid on a lightcycle is undeniable. Now, Disney is enhancing the experience with a new overlay inspired by the upcoming film, Tron: Ares, set to hit theaters on October 10th, 2025.
The announcement was made at Destination D23, where Yvette Nicole Brown revealed that both Disney World’s TRON Lightcycle / Run and Shanghai Disney Resort’s TRON Lightcycle Power Run would transform to celebrate the movie. The Disney World update arrived on September 15th, with Shanghai following on September 16th.
The most noticeable change is the ride’s color scheme. The familiar blue and orange tones have been replaced with a bold red. Imagine approaching the grid at night and seeing it illuminated in a glowing red light—a completely different and immersive experience.
In addition to the visual changes, the soundtrack has been updated with music from Nine Inch Nails, featured in Tron: Ares. This new soundtrack adds to the fresh feel of one of Magic Kingdom’s fastest coasters. If you’re a TRON fan or enjoy seeing Disney innovate its attractions, don’t miss this limited-time update. It’s a completely new way to experience the ride.
Advancements in Animatronics Technology
While new rides capture our attention, behind-the-scenes innovations reveal the future of Disney parks. Disney recently filed a patent that could revolutionize animatronics construction and experience.
Patent US18/592,863 focuses on combining projection systems with sensors and real-time rendering to create more lifelike and responsive animatronics. Instead of relying solely on mechanical movements, the system projects faces or other content onto a moving surface, updating in real-time as the animatronic moves. This projection engine tracks the animatronic’s position and adjusts the animation accordingly, resulting in more natural movements.
This technology could enhance advanced animatronics already in use, such as the new Walt Disney figure at Disneyland and the upcoming Walt Disney animatronic in Magic Kingdom’s Carousel of Progress. The Carousel of Progress update will be the first major change to its intro scene in over 30 years, with concept art showing Walt welcoming guests.
The potential is vast. Envision animatronics that react subtly to their environment, making characters more alive and attractions more immersive. While patents don’t always materialize immediately, this one signals a future where animatronics are smarter, smoother, and more realistic, enhancing Disney’s storytelling.
Remembering Gino the Gorilla
Not all Disney news revolves around rides and technology; sometimes, it’s about the animals at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. This week, Disney announced the passing of Gino the gorilla, the oldest gorilla at Animal Kingdom.
Gino spent 30 years at the park and was beloved by guests, Cast Members, and animal experts. Described as playful, gentle, and steady, he was a devoted father and troop leader who impacted everyone he met.
Gino fathered 14 offspring, a significant legacy within Disney and beyond. His long life reflects the excellent care provided by Disney’s Animal Kingdom, given that silverback gorillas typically live 35 to 40 years in the wild.
Tributes have poured in, including one from Disney Legend Joe Rohde, who called Gino a “true alpha male” and a “gentle, humorous, kind” partner. Disney also released a video of Cast Members sharing memories of his unique personality. Gino was more than just an animal; he was part of the Animal Kingdom family and will be deeply missed.
This week at Disney World brought a mix of thrilling updates, technological advancements, and heartfelt moments. From the Tron: Ares overlay at Tron Lightcycle / Run to the potential revolution in animatronics and the fond farewell to Gino the gorilla, there’s always something new and noteworthy happening.
The Tron: Ares overlay offers a fresh and exciting way to experience one of Magic Kingdom’s most popular rides, while Disney’s patent for advanced animatronics hints at a future where characters come to life in unprecedented ways. And the memory of Gino the gorilla reminds us of the special connection between humans and animals at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
As Disney World continues to evolve, staying informed ensures you don’t miss any of the magic. Keep checking FYM News for the latest updates and insights, and get ready to experience all that Disney has to offer!
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