As AI increasingly integrates into filmmaking, the Academy is resolute in its focus. Howell Taylor stressed that while technology offers exciting enhancements, "What will always remain true for the Academy is that we award human excellence, human-driven workflow." She acknowledged ongoing discussions within the Academy regarding AI's eligibility implications, particularly concerning copyright, transparency, and disclosure.

The conversation also turned to the evolution of the International Feature Film (IFF) category. For the upcoming 99th Oscars, a significant change allows non-English-language films to qualify by winning top honors at six major international festivals—including Berlin, Cannes, Sundance, and Venice—without requiring official submission from their home country. Meredith Shea, Chief Membership, Impact and Industry Officer, confirmed that the International Feature Executive Committee will annually review these rules, ensuring they align with industry standards and represent global filmmakers. Howell Taylor noted this, alongside a recent rule allowing refugee filmmakers representation from their asylum country, creates "multiple paths to qualify for an international award rather than just being selected by a home country."

Academy CEO Bill Kramer underscored these changes as part of a larger initiative to "expand the aperture of how we’re inviting in non-U.S. films, non-English-language films, to be considered." This global push extends to the Academy's membership, which is now 25% non-U.S., and its international outreach, with recent visits to festivals in Rio, Marrakesh, Morelia, and Busan. Kramer highlighted the upcoming 2029 Oscars ceremony, which will be streamed on YouTube, as a pivotal step to reach a global audience of 2.5 billion people simultaneously, with options in over 30 languages. This move aims to enhance direct fan engagement and acknowledges the significant international demand for the Oscars.

Addressing disparities in awards campaign costs, especially for smaller film industries, Kramer mentioned initiatives like the Academy Screening Room, which provides an equal platform for all nominated films. The Academy also actively promotes emerging, diverse, and international filmmakers across its social channels and at the Academy Museum. Amy Homma, Director and President of the Academy Museum, emphasized the museum's commitment to showcasing diverse film histories, including Asian and Asian American narratives, and its critical role in film preservation efforts worldwide.

As the Academy approaches its centennial, Howell Taylor and Kramer affirmed a vision of continued international growth across membership, programming, and collections, reflecting on the industry's global evolution.