Overview

• Toei Animation has announced plans to integrate artificial intelligence into storyboarding, coloring, in-between frames, and background generation for future productions.
• The studio has invested in Preferred Networks, a Japanese AI company, to support these ambitions, but no timeline for implementation has been provided.
• Fans and creators have expressed concerns about the potential loss of hand-drawn artistry, with many fearing a decline in quality and creative integrity.
• One Piece animator Vincent Chansard stated that production teams have not been informed of any immediate changes, describing the announcement as a PR move aimed at shareholders.
• As of May 19, 2025, no AI tools have been introduced in the production of One Piece, and fans are awaiting further details or the debut of AI-assisted episodes.