June 29, 2025

Rebuilding the Future: How Innoventions Replaced CommuniCore (Ep. 538)

Rebuilding the Future: How Innoventions Replaced CommuniCore (Ep. 538)

Len Testa and Jim Hill cover the latest Disney news, including a major update to the dining reservation system, a rerouted parade to improve park flow, and the latest tweaks at Epic Universe. Then, Jim dives into the real story of how Epcot’s CommuniCore was shut down and transformed into Innoventions—Disney’s answer to a park in crisis. With budgets tight and tech aging fast, Michael Eisner turned to Las Vegas for inspiration, resulting in a CES-style exhibit hall packed with rotating sponsors, interactive demos, and a built-in refresh cycle.

  • Disney’s new patent could make Haunted Mansion feel spookier

  • A smarter parade route helps clear Main Street faster

  • Why Tron still isn’t available during Early Entry

  • Epic Universe’s early admission strategy evolves again

  • The creation, success, and legacy of Innoventions

It’s a look at how Disney reimagined the future—and managed to sell it to sponsors one booth at a time.

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