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Exactly 30 years after the first Toy Story film debuted, establishing the animation giant as a leading animation studio and introducing viewers to iconic figures like Woody (the actor) and Buzz Lightyear (the voice talent), who are now household names.

In 2026, the fifth installment is set to arrive. The initial preview for Toy Story 5 appeared this week, providing a brief look into the storyline but leaving fans wondering how it will address the ending of Toy Story 4.

The Latest Addition: A Digital Device Frightens the Gang

In the teaser shows Bonnie — who inherited the toy collection when he left for college — receiving a brand new toy, one that alarms Woody, Buzz, and the crew. Bonnie acquires her initial digital gadget, and she is thrilled about it.

Presumably, the amphibian-inspired device will animate just like the rest of her playthings. However, the toys appear to consider it as a danger intending to supplant them, which it probably is.

Woody's Return: Mysteries from Toy Story 4

An element the trailer doesn't touch on is what the sheriff is back with his companions in Bonnie's room. The end of Toy Story 4 saw him set off on a new adventure with the shepherdess (Annie Potts), traveling with a carnival and helping prize toys find good homes.

Certainly, the filmmakers will address the aftermath of Toy Story 4 in the movie. Seeing him show up in Bonnie's room unexpectedly is somewhat puzzling, though. It also raises questions whether his partner will have come back with Woody. And what about the stuntman toy (the star)?

Connections from the Last Installment

Fortunately, some elements are carrying over from the prior film. The last thing the cowboy did before setting off for his new life was hand over his symbol of authority to the cowgirl (Joan Cusack), leaving her as the leader of the toy domain. The clip displays the badge pinned to her shirt.

It is hoped she is still the key figure among the toys.

Toy Story 5 debuts on the scheduled date.