Disney is quietly testing a revolutionary technology that could redefine immersion in its theme parks: extended reality (XR) sunglasses. These glasses, developed by startup Liminal Space (a 2025 Disney Accelerator participant), seamlessly blend virtual visuals with the real world, creating experiences so realistic that guests may not even realize they’re watching a screen.
The Illusion Unveiled
The core idea is simple: regular-looking sunglasses that transform into XR displays when focused on special screens. During a recent demonstration at Walt Disney Studios, guests watched a life-sized Rocket from Guardians of the Galaxy perform on stage – only to discover he was a projected image with an actor providing the movements behind the scenes. The glasses made the illusion flawless.
This isn’t just about tricking the eye. Liminal Space’s technology aims to solve a key problem with current VR/AR headsets: isolation. Unlike bulky VR gear that locks users into digital worlds, these glasses allow shared experiences. As CEO Nathan Huber explains, the goal is to deliver “immersion and awe” while still letting people see their friends, family, and surroundings.
Beyond 3D: A Step Toward Seamless Immersion
The glasses represent a leap beyond outdated 3D glasses. While VR drops you into a fully virtual environment, and AR overlays graphics onto reality, Liminal Space’s tech aims for something closer to seamless integration. Disney sees this as a way to enhance existing attractions and create entirely new ones.
Imagine walking through a park, wearing these glasses, and seeing digital elements blend with physical environments. A Vincent Van Gogh painting could come alive, with snowflakes drifting from the canvas as you approach. This isn’t just about watching a screen; it’s about stepping inside the experience.
Modular Screens and Scalability
The technology’s appeal lies in its scalability and cost-effectiveness. Liminal Space claims the glasses are cheap to produce, meaning Disney could potentially distribute thousands to guests. The modular screen approach means attractions can be updated easily. As Michael Koperwas of Industrial Light & Magic notes, this allows for “low-friction, wonderful ways to expand the world that you’re already in.”
Disney has a history of wearable tech, from the MagicBand to MagicBand Plus. The XR glasses could be the next iteration, offering a more immersive and dynamic experience.
The Future of Theme Park Experiences
Disney’s backing of Liminal Space signals its commitment to hyperrealistic, immersive environments. Executives at Walt Disney Imagineering see this as a way to deliver experiences that feel “magical” and “seamless.”
The shift toward XR glasses isn’t just about entertainment; it’s about redefining how guests perceive reality within theme parks. As Bonnie Rosen, Disney Accelerator’s general manager, puts it: “Innovation happens every day at Disney… we just don’t talk about it until it looks inevitable, and then someone calls it ‘Disney magic.’”
