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Exactly 30 years after the first Toy Story movie was released, launching the animation giant as a leading animation studio and introducing viewers to beloved figures like the cowboy doll (the actor) and the space ranger (Tim Allen), who are now household names.

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

The Latest Addition: A Digital Device Spooks the Gang

In the teaser shows the young girl — who inherited the toy collection when he grew up — receiving a brand new toy, one that terrifies Woody, Buzz, and the crew. She acquires her first tablet computer, and she is excited about it.

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

The Cowboy's Comeback: Unanswered Questions from Toy Story 4

An element the teaser avoids is what the sheriff is returned with his friends in Bonnie's room. The end of Toy Story 4 depicted him set off on a new adventure with Bo Peep (the actress), traveling with a fair and helping giveaway items locate loving owners.

Certainly, Pixar will address the aftermath of Toy Story 4 in the film. Witnessing him appear in the familiar setting unexpectedly is somewhat puzzling, though. It also raises questions whether his partner will have returned with him. And what about Duke Caboom (Keanu Reeves)?

Continuity from the Last Installment

At the very least, some elements are continuing from the earlier movie. The last thing the cowboy did before setting off for his fresh path was hand over his symbol of authority to the cowgirl (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 driving force among the toys.

Toy Story 5 arrives in theaters on the scheduled date.