Aniplex President: We Will Consider Using AI If It Benefits Creators
Aniplex President Atsuhiro Iwakami stated in a recent announcement that the company has not completely closed the door to AI tools, but rather could use this technology if it contributes to the creative process. Iwakami said, "We see AI as a tool that will make creators' work easier and enrich their works. If these tools can support the creativity of animators or writers, we will consider using them."
The statement came during a panel held as part of Anime Expo 2024. Iwakami emphasized that they are open to the industry's digital transformation and technological innovations, but added that they will not allow AI to replace human labor. This balanced stance is interpreted as notable, especially following strikes and protests by many anime studios in Japan against AI use in recent months.
Aniplex is known as the producer of globally popular series such as Demon Slayer, Attack on Titan, and Sword Art Online. The company operates under Sony Music Entertainment Japan and is one of the biggest players in the anime world. Iwakami's statement has raised questions about whether other major studios in the industry will adopt a similar approach.
On the other hand, many artists and fans are concerned that AI could threaten the workforce in the anime industry. Particularly last year, AI experiments by studios such as Toei Animation and Kyoto Animation were criticized. Iwakami's balanced approach is seen as a line that neither rejects technology nor prioritizes human creativity. It is not yet clear which specific AI tools Aniplex will test in the coming period or at which production stages these tools will be used.
For anime fans, this news offers an important clue about how the industry will shape up in the future. If a major producer like Aniplex integrates AI in a controlled and creator-friendly manner, it could set an example for other studios. However, the decisive factor will be whether the technology truly alleviates the workload of animators and opens up new artistic expressions. All eyes are now on updates to Aniplex's official roadmap in the coming months.
