'Star Trek Beyond' news: sequel already being prepped as Paramount Pictures registers 'Star Trek 4' with MPAA

"Star Trek Beyond" has not yet been released in theaters but there are already rumblings of a sequel. As stated in a report from Trek Movie, Paramount Pictures has registered a "Star Trek 4" with the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA), hinting that the studio has a lot of faith that the upcoming third movie will be a success.

The report points out that this does not immediately confirm that "Star Trek 4" is indeed going to happen but it does indicate the studios are already preparing for it. The only signal needed for "Star Trek 4" to move forward is the box office result of "Star Trek Beyond" - if the movie succeeds then the studios are likely to go with a sequel.

According to the report, registering the film with the MPAA first, even though it has not yet been green-lit for production, is necessary for any film before it can be released in the United States. Registering the movie will also prevent other studios from stealing the intellectual property and infringing on copyright.

IGN points out that "Star Trek 4" is not going to be final title and is likely a placeholder and until the studios come up with a final title for the film. It is speculated by fans that the fourth movie will follow the tradition set by "Star Trek Into Darkness" and "Star Trek Beyond" and integrate the subtitle into the main title as a single phrase.

The report also confirms that both Zachary Quinto and Chris Pine have already been locked in and have signed a contract for a fourth film. This took place last year and is another sign that the studios have a lot of faith in the success of "Star Trek Beyond" and may already be working on the details of the sequel.

"Star Trek Beyond" launches in theaters this July 22.