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It has been 30 years since the original Toy Story film debuted, establishing the animation giant as a major animation studio and bringing viewers to beloved figures like the cowboy doll (the actor) and Buzz Lightyear (the voice talent), who are now household names.

In 2026, the next chapter is scheduled for release. The initial preview for Toy Story 5 appeared recently, offering a glimpse into the plot but keeping viewers wondering how it will address the ending of Toy Story 4.

Bonnie's New Toy: A Digital Device Frightens the Gang

The preview shows the young girl — who inherited the toy collection when he left for college — getting a latest plaything, one that terrifies the familiar toy group. Bonnie gets her first tablet computer, and she is thrilled about it.

Theoretically, the amphibian-inspired device will animate just like Bonnie's other toys. Still, the characters seem to view it as a danger intending to supplant them, which it likely will.

The Cowboy's Comeback: Mysteries from Toy Story 4

An element the trailer doesn't touch on is why Woody is returned with his friends in the child's bedroom. The end of Toy Story 4 depicted him set off on a new adventure with Bo Peep (Annie Potts), traveling with a fair and helping giveaway items locate loving owners.

Surely, the filmmakers will address the consequences of Toy Story 4 in the movie. Seeing him show up in Bonnie's room without warning is a little strange, though. It also makes us wonder whether his partner will have come back with Woody. And where is the stuntman toy (the star)?

Connections from the Last Installment

Fortunately, some aspects are continuing from the prior film. The final act Woody did before setting off for his new life was hand over his symbol of authority to Jessie (Joan Cusack), leaving her as the leader of the toy domain. In the teaser shows the insignia attached to her shirt.

Hopefully she is still the key figure among the toys.

Toy Story 5 debuts on the scheduled date.