Pixar Animation Studios is a pioneering American animation company based in Emeryville, California, renowned for its groundbreaking computer-animated feature films. Originally part of Lucasfilm's computer division in 1979, it became an independent corporation in 1986 with significant funding from Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, who was its majority shareholder. Pixar revolutionized animation by producing *Toy Story* in 1995, the first fully computer-animated feature film, which became the highest-grossing film that year and earned multiple Oscar nominations[1][2][5]. Pixar’s success rests on its blend of cutting-edge technology and emotionally rich storytelling. The studio developed RenderMan, an industry-standard rendering software critical for creating high-quality images. Over the years, Pixar has produced 29 feature films, including blockbuster hits like *Finding Nemo*, *The Incredibles*, *Cars*, and *Inside Out*, many of which grossed over $1 billion worldwide. As of 2025, its films have collectively earned over $15 billion globally, with *Inside Out 2* ranking as the second highest-grossing animated film ever[1]. The studio’s history is marked by strategic partnerships and business milestones. After initial financial struggles despite *Toy Story*’s success, Pixar went public in 1995, raising $132 million. Its relationship with Disney was initially a distribution partnership, but after contract disputes, Disney acquired Pixar in 2006 for $7.4 billion, fully integrating it within Walt Disney Studios. This merger revitalized Disney’s animation division and solidified Pixar’s role as a creative and technological leader in the industry[3][4]. Notably, Pixar’s culture emphasizes innovation, collaboration, and respect, fostering a creative environment that balances artistry with technology. Its iconic mascot, Luxo Jr., symbolizes the studio’s innovative spirit. Pixar continues to shape the future of animation, blending artistic storytelling with technological advancements to engage audiences worldwide[1][6].