Banijay Kids & Family and Toon Boom Animation have entered a partnership to test artificial intelligence tools for children's content production [1].
This collaboration represents a strategic shift in how animation studios integrate generative technology into their pipelines. By granting a software provider access to proprietary content for research, Banijay is attempting to shape the development of AI tools that will eventually define the industry's efficiency and creative output.
Under the terms of the deal, Banijay Kids & Family will hand over kids content to Toon Boom [1]. This data will be used to test the animation company's AI tools [2]. In exchange for providing this material, Banijay will receive early access to the emerging technology [1].
The agreement is structured as a research-and-development collaboration [2]. This approach allows Toon Boom to refine its software using real-world production assets from a major studio, ensuring the tools are viable for professional animation workflows before a wider release [3].
Industry observers note that such partnerships are becoming more common as studios seek to balance the promise of AI speed with the need for quality control. The deal was announced on June 16, 2026 [3].
While the specific tools being tested were not detailed, the partnership highlights the growing reliance on AI to manage the complex layers of modern animation. By securing early access, Banijay can integrate these tools into its production cycle ahead of competitors [1].
“Banijay Kids & Family and Toon Boom Animation have entered a partnership to test artificial intelligence tools.”
This partnership signals a move toward 'closed-loop' AI development in animation, where studios provide the training data in exchange for a competitive edge in tooling. It suggests that major production houses are moving away from off-the-shelf AI solutions in favor of bespoke tools trained on their own intellectual property to maintain stylistic consistency and quality.
