AI revolutionizes rendering and digital content creation

Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the landscape of rendering technology and digital content creation, according to insights shared at the inaugural RenderCon conference in April 2025. With rapid advances in AI and distributed networks, industry leaders such as Jules Urbach, CEO of OTOY and Founder of Lender Network, and Ari Emanuel, Executive Chairman of WME Group, discussed the transformative potential of these technologies.

Rapid evolution of rendering and AI

The conference highlighted the rapid pace of innovation in generative AI and 3D creation. Jules Urbach highlighted the speed of technological advancement, citing improvements in generative AI that are revolutionizing the workflows of storytellers, designers, and developers around the world. “This is much better than it was three weeks ago,” Urbach said. “That’s how fast things are moving in the universe.”

The role of AI in the creative process

During the event, Ari Emanuel reflected on the intersection of technology and entertainment, suggesting that AI and new distribution methods will fundamentally change the way stories are created and distributed. Urbach agreed, emphasizing that rendering and AI are not just about speed, but rethinking how creativity can scale on a global scale.

3D workflow enhancements

Urbach shared advances in 3D workflows, including the ability to extract 3D models in seconds, greatly increasing efficiency for concept artists. These innovations allow artists to test ideas quickly and spend less time in the preliminary stages of creation. Despite these advances, Urbach acknowledged that there are ongoing challenges, including the need for tools to produce editable 3D scenes that give artists more control.

Real-time digital prosthetics and their implications

One notable advancement discussed was real-time digital prosthetics. Urbach said a single RTX 4090 GPU was used to create the digital prosthetics, saving time on the actors’ makeup. This technology shows the potential of digital rendering to revolutionize traditional filmmaking techniques, as demonstrated by Colin Farrell’s transformation into the Penguin.

AI ethical considerations in analogy and storytelling

As AI facilitates new creative possibilities, ethical considerations arise, especially regarding the use of likenesses. Urbach emphasized the importance of working with organizations like SAG to establish clear ethical standards to responsibly address these issues.

Preserving cultural heritage through technology

Urbach also highlighted efforts to digitally archive Star Trek and preserve its cultural heritage through technology. Working with Rod Roddenberry, the team has been digitizing various elements of the series, including ship and set design. The project highlights the potential of technology to not only innovate, but also preserve and extend iconic fictional worlds.

As AI continues to evolve, it is opening new frontiers of creativity and raising questions about the future of storytelling and cultural preservation. Insights from RenderCon 2025 hint at a future where technology and creativity are inextricably linked, inspiring creators to imagine not just what they can build, but what kind of world they want to shape.

For more information, see Render Network.

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