Zhongtai Securities released a research report highlighting the growing momentum of animated short dramas across platforms. In early November, the National Radio and Television Administration issued a notice launching a special regulatory campaign until March 2026, integrating micro-short dramas in animation formats into a tiered review system.
The report noted that Gemini 3 has become a powerful tool for animated short drama production, as iterative advancements in large AI models enable creators to achieve visual effects at minimal costs—previously unattainable through traditional methods. It recommended focusing on IP-driven companies (e.g., comics, web novels) and firms with AI technology or platform advantages.
Key observations include: - **Platform Competition Intensifies**: On November 16, data from "Manju You Shu" showed daily views of native animated short dramas on Douyin surpassed 400 million. - iQiyi announced during its Q3 earnings call on November 18 plans to develop original animated short dramas, later launching a dedicated channel. - Tencent is testing two WeChat mini-programs, "Mars Animation" and "Mars Animation Club," though features remain incomplete. - NetEase introduced "NetEase Antelope Animated Drama," offering real-time backend sales data and weekly revenue settlements. - China Mobile’s Migu unveiled an AI co-creation initiative, including script partnerships with perpetual profit-sharing for writers. - Kuaishou upgraded its animated drama investment plan with AI partner Keling, supporting cash incentives up to ¥500,000, while its native content exceeded 5 million daily views. - Baidu’s "Starlight Leap Plan" offers profit-sharing, IP licensing, and script submissions with performance-based rewards.
- **Regulatory Crackdown**: The first penalty in the animated short drama market was issued on November 20, with Lingju Animation’s *Failed College Entrance, Scamming Classmates into a Ghost University* pulled offline for promoting feudal superstitions. Zhongtai Securities believes stricter oversight will weed out low-quality content, creating opportunities for compliant, high-standard creators.
- **ByteDance’s Revenue Model Adjustment**: On November 20, Douyin’s short drama copyright center revised profit-sharing coefficients for Hongguo and Tomato Free Novels’ animated dramas, favoring high-quality formats (e.g., 60 for hyper-realistic, 50 for 2D/3D) and exclusive partnerships. This signals a push toward premium content, potentially pressuring small teams and low-cost creators to adapt.
- **AI Breakthroughs**: Google’s upcoming Nano Banana Pro (Gemini 3 ProImage), previewed on November 20, enables 4K vertical output, precise text rendering, and professional-grade material integration, further empowering AI-assisted production.
**Risks**: Rising model costs, intensified competition, slower content supply growth, tighter regulations, and third-party data inaccuracies.
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