The Integration and Application of Artificial Intelligence in the Animation Industry

Amid the rapid development of the global digital economy, the animation industry faces structural challenges such as high production costs, low efficiency, long production cycles, and increasing content homogenization. In this context, artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a key driver of digital transformation, becoming deeply embedded across the animation value chain—from content creation and production to distribution. AI technologies have significantly improved production efficiency and enabled new creative modes, including human–machine co-creation and interactive storytelling. However, the growing application of AI has also generated systemic risks, including copyright disputes, algorithmic bias, data barriers, ethical concerns, and imbalances in talent structures. Existing studies primarily emphasize technical efficiency or economic performance, while paying limited attention to creative ethics, cultural values, and institutional governance. This study systematically examines the current applications of AI in the animation industry and analyzes key integration challenges across five dimensions: content generation and creative collaboration, data and algorithmic practices, intellectual property and ethical governance, legal regulation and industry standards, and talent development. Based on this analysis, the study proposes strategic pathways for sustainable development, focusing on technological innovation, governance coordination, and interdisciplinary collaboration. The findings provide theoretical insights and practical guidance for advancing the animation industry in the era of AI-driven digital transformation.