Starting from July 16, 2025, Walt Disney World has introduced a temporary feature in its Hollywood Studios park, as BDX droids from Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge started appearing. These interactive, autonomous robots can be found five days a week until August 30.
In Disney parks, the robots, or BDX units as they are called behind the scenes, introduce a fresh approach to character interaction.
The term “BDX” represents “Bipedal Dynamic Experiment.” These droids were ingeniously created by Disney Imagineering’s Living Character Initiative. Their role is to introduce lifelike, mobile characters into the parks with the help of sophisticated robotics and AI-driven actions. Standing on two legs like humans, these knee-high droids display a variety of emotional expressions through body language. Unlike traditional statues or remotely controlled robots, BDX units move autonomously across walkways and courtyards, frequently pausing to “observe” or “respond” to nearby visitors.
Daily performances consist of seven set encounters. Visitors can locate the robots from Tuesday to Saturday, assuming favorable weather conditions. Shows usually commence in late morning and extend into early evening hours. The “Characters” section within the official Disney app lists them under Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.
During the frequent summer rains in Florida, staff put on protective covers, and shows might need to pause momentarily.
Welcome to Florida BD-X droids, it rains here
— BlogMickey.com (@Blog_Mickey) July 16, 2025
The four BDX robots – Red, Grek, Oskar, and Besh – each exhibit distinct character quirks. One moves carefully, while another appears more exploratory or lively. Despite being partially controlled by hidden puppeteers, these droids also adapt to their surroundings. Sensors, cameras, and built-in processors enable them to navigate safely among guests and dodge obstacles. If required, they can regain balance if jostled or taken aback.
For the first time, the droids made their debut at Walt Disney World, following their introduction at Disneyland in California in 2023. Since then, they have undergone hardware adjustments to better withstand Florida’s hotter and wetter conditions. Engineers swapped numerous 3D-printed components with stronger milled parts, ensuring the droids could function efficiently in humid environments and endure heavier usage.
Reception
Visitor feedback has overwhelmingly been favorable. Many people refer to the droids as “adorable,” “realistic,” or “puppy-like.
Social media has rapidly disseminated videos of their shows, indicating a high level of curiosity for more engaging and interactive experiences within the themed area. Originally, Galaxy’s Edge debuted with limited character action, which some visitors found lacking. However, these new enhancements seem designed to alleviate that issue by making the environment appear more lively.
As a devoted movie lover, I must admit that I share the sentiments of many others who’ve expressed their dismay over the temporary presence of the droids in Galaxy’s Edge until August. Here’s to hoping the overwhelmingly positive response from visitors will persuade the creators to extend their stay permanently, immersing us even deeper into this Star Wars galaxy experience.
From today until August 30th, the BDX droids will be found at various spots within Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Walt Disney World. They will appear for encounters on Tuesdays to Saturdays, specifically at these times: 10:30 AM, 11:30 AM, 12:30 PM, 3 PM, 4 PM, 5 PM, and 6 PM.
— Scott Gustin (@ScottGustin) July 16, 2025
The advanced technology in the droids is a product of joint efforts among various teams. Before constructing the physical robots, Disney utilized Nvidia and DeepMind’s simulation software to educate digital counterparts. Through these virtual tests, the droids learned to walk, maintain balance, and express emotions. Insights from these simulations subsequently influenced the design of actual robots.
As a passionate moviegoer, if you want to catch a glimpse of the BDX droids, I highly recommend checking the app and showing up early, especially during busy hours. Keep in mind that these droids don’t stop for posed photos, but they do interact frequently with the crowd. Currently, Disney hasn’t made any official announcements about whether the droids will stay beyond their August end date in Florida. But, for now, this two-month window presents a unique chance to experience the fusion of robotics and storytelling within a completely themed world – don’t miss it!
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2025-07-20 16:56