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It has been 30 years since the original Toy Story film was released, establishing the animation giant as a major animation studio and bringing audiences to beloved characters like Woody (the actor) and Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen), who are now household names.

In 2026, the next chapter is scheduled for release. The first teaser trailer for Toy Story 5 landed this week, offering a brief look into the plot but leaving fans curious how it will address the ending of Toy Story 4.

The Latest Addition: A Digital Device Frightens the Toys

The preview reveals Bonnie — who inherited Andy's toys when he left for college — receiving a brand new toy, one that terrifies the familiar toy group. She gets her initial digital gadget, and she is thrilled about it.

Presumably, the frog-shaped tablet will come to life just like the rest of her playthings. Still, the characters seem to view it as a threat intending to supplant them, which it likely will.

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

One thing the teaser doesn't touch on is what Woody is returned with his companions in the child's bedroom. The finale of Toy Story 4 saw him embark on a fresh journey with Bo Peep (the actress), journeying with a carnival and helping prize toys find good homes.

Surely, the filmmakers will explain the consequences of Toy Story 4 in the movie. Seeing him show up in Bonnie's room without warning is somewhat puzzling, though. It also makes us wonder whether Bo Peep will have come back with him. And what about Duke Caboom (the star)?

Connections from the Last Installment

At the very least, some elements are carrying over from the earlier movie. The final act the cowboy did before setting off for his fresh path was hand over his sheriff badge to Jessie (Joan Cusack), leaving her as the leader of Bonnie's bedroom. The clip displays the badge attached to her shirt.

Hopefully she is still the key figure among the toys.

Toy Story 5 debuts on the scheduled date.