Google Joins Forces with Sphere for AI-Powered Wizard of Oz

In a remarkable announcement today, Google has been named the official AI partner for the highly anticipated The Wizard of Oz at Sphere, set to open in Las Vegas on August 28, 2025. This collaboration between Google and Sphere Entertainment Co. (NYSE: SPHR) marks a significant advancement in integrating cutting-edge technology with immersive entertainment.

The project will employ generative AI technology developed by Google Cloud and Google DeepMind, including the utilization of state-of-the-art models such as Gemini, Veo 2, and Imagen 3, to elevate the classic film experience. By processing an astonishing 1.2 petabytes of data, this partnership aims to bring a reimagined version of the beloved story to life on a breathtaking 16k resolution screen.

Transforming a Classic

The Wizard of Oz, originally released in 1939, was a pioneer in cinematic technology with its use of Technicolor. Sphere aims to emulate this legacy by creating an immersive experience that marries traditional VFX techniques with advanced AI capabilities. This collaboration is expected to push the boundaries of visual storytelling, offering audiences an unprecedented journey through Oz.

According to Jim Dolan, Executive Chairman and CEO of Sphere Entertainment, ‘The power of generative AI, combined with Google’s infrastructure and expertise, is helping us achieve something extraordinary.’ Dolan expressed the importance of a partner like Google in pushing the limits of technology for an audience on the world’s highest resolution LED screen.

Furthermore, Thomas Kurian, CEO of Google Cloud, stated, ‘Our partnership with Sphere on The Wizard of Oz at Sphere is a great example of pushing the boundaries of generative AI to deliver exciting new experiences for audiences.’ Kurian emphasized the honor of being involved in such an ambitious project that aims to introduce the classic film to a new generation.

Key Technological Innovations

• Super Resolution: Utilizing Veo for enhancing the film’s resolution, this technology intelligently fills missing pixels, creating an ultra-crisp 16k image.
• Outpainting: The project will expand backgrounds, enriching the visual landscape and immersing audiences deeper into the narrative.
• Performance Generation: Innovative storytelling techniques will allow characters to interact without the constraints of traditional film editing, enhancing viewer immersion.
• Context Window: Gemini and Veo’s advanced capabilities ensure cohesion across extensive scenes, maintaining the quality of visuals throughout the experience.

About Sphere and Google Cloud

Sphere stands as a next-generation entertainment medium, creating original experiences that redefine live storytelling. By leveraging Google Cloud’s capabilities, Sphere aims to establish a new standard in audience engagement.

Google Cloud accelerates business transformations with an innovative suite of tools, reputed for its efficiency and reliability across over 200 countries.

As this groundbreaking partnership unfolds, anticipation builds for what promises to be an extraordinary reinterpretation of a timeless tale — paving the way for future advancements in both technology and entertainment.