With the exemption from the new rule, "Scoob!" It's 'Trolls World Tour' ensured eligibility for the Oscars

In a statement, Academy President David Rubin and CEO Dawn Hudson said:

“The Academy firmly believes that there is no better way to experience the magic of films than seeing them in a theater. Our commitment to this is unchanged and constant. However, the historically tragic COVID-19 pandemic requires this temporary exception to our rewards eligibility rules. The Academy supports our members and colleagues during this time of uncertainty. We recognize the importance of their work being seen and celebrated, especially now, when audiences appreciate films more than ever ”.

To make films easier to meet theater show requirements when theaters reopen, the Academy will also expand the number of qualifying theaters beyond Los Angeles County to include locations in additional US metropolitan areas: New York City; the Bay Area; Chicago, Illinois; Miami, Florida; and Atlanta, Georgia.

An exemption has also been granted for film festivals that have earned an Oscar and have had to go virtual due to the pandemic. This change of rules should be noted for filmmakers aiming to compete in the Academy's best animated short category this year:

Film festivals that have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic can deliver movies online through a transactional payment wall or password protected entry, which will not affect the eligibility of films for future Oscar qualification. The Academy will allow an exemption for those films that are distributed online through the online platform of an interested festival, provided that proof of inclusion in the festival is presented. With these provisions, films will have to meet all other eligibility requirements for the 93rd Academy Awards.

The 93rd Oscar is currently scheduled for Sunday, February 28, 2021 in Hollywood, California.