Toei Animation announces the use of AI in anime production

Rafael Shinzo
I'm Rafael Alves, known as Shinzo, founder of AnimeNew. I created the site in 2009 with the mission of sharing news and updates about anime, manga, and...

Toei Animation, one of the giants of the anime, has officially announced that it will incorporate artificial intelligence (AI) into the production process of its works. As disclosed on its website, the company plans to use AI in the creation of storyboards, automatic coloring, keyframe (genga) and in-between frame, as well as generating backgrounds from photographs.

The publication arrived via the March 2025 fiscal report

Toei Report 2025

Although this decision aims to accelerate the pace of production and reduce costs, it also raises relevant discussions. After all, the manual work of animators has always been one of the pillars that gives each Japanese work its unique identity.

Toei Animation Artificial Intelligence
Photo courtesy of Toei Animation

However, Toei argues that, with AI support, it will be possible to optimize technical tasks and allow artists to focus more on the creative and narrative aspects. Therefore, the idea is not to completely replace human professionals, but to improve workflow and ensure greater efficiency in schedules.

Furthermore, other companies in the sector have also been exploring AI-based solutions, indicating a gradual—and perhaps inevitable—change in how anime is developed.

Meanwhile, fans and professionals are closely watching Toei's next steps. Will this new phase mark a positive revolution or will it have negative impacts on the art of animation?

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Source: Toei Animation website

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I’m Rafael Alves, better known as Shinzo, founder of AnimeNew. I launched the website in 2009 with the mission of bringing anime, manga, and gaming news and updates straight from Japan to fans around the world.