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It has been 30 anniversary since the first Toy Story film was released, launching the animation giant as a leading animation studio and bringing viewers to iconic characters like the cowboy doll (Tom Hanks) and the space ranger (the voice talent), who are now household names.

Coming in 2026, the next chapter is set to arrive. The initial preview for Toy Story 5 landed this week, providing a glimpse into the plot but leaving viewers 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 received the toy collection when he left for college — receiving a brand new plaything, one that terrifies the familiar toy group. She gets her initial digital gadget, and she is thrilled about it.

Theoretically, the amphibian-inspired device will animate just like the rest of her playthings. However, the characters seem to view it as a threat coming to replace them, which it likely will.

The Cowboy's Comeback: Mysteries from Toy Story 4

An element the teaser avoids is why Woody is back with his companions in Bonnie's room. The finale of Toy Story 4 saw him set off on a new adventure with Bo Peep (Annie Potts), traveling with a carnival and helping giveaway items find good homes.

Surely, the filmmakers will address the aftermath of Toy Story 4 in the movie. Witnessing him appear in the familiar setting without warning is a little strange, though. It also makes us wonder whether Bo Peep will have come back with him. And where is the stuntman toy (the star)?

Continuity from the Last Installment

At the very least, some aspects are carrying over from the prior film. The final act the cowboy did before setting off for his fresh path was hand over his symbol of authority to Jessie (the voice actor), entrusting her in charge of the toy domain. The clip displays the badge attached to her outfit.

Hopefully she is still the key figure among the toys.

Toy Story 5 arrives in theaters on the scheduled date.