LEGO has unveiled the SMART Play system, introducing interactive components to its traditional building sets without the need for screens. This new system includes SMART Bricks, SMART Tag tiles, and SMART Minifigures, which interact through unique digital IDs to create responsive play experiences, such as lighting up and making sounds when building specific models like helicopters. Powered by a tiny ASIC chip, these components utilize near-field magnetic positioning and BrickNet, a Bluetooth-based protocol, to communicate and enhance play. The first two SMART Play sets, both Star Wars-themed, will be available for purchase starting March 1, with preorders opening soon. This matters because it blends traditional play with interactive technology, offering a new dimension to creative building without screen dependency.
Lego has introduced the Smart Play platform, which integrates technology into its classic analog toys without the need for screens. This innovation is exemplified by the 962-piece Throne Room Duel set, which includes Smart Minifigures of iconic Star Wars characters such as Darth Vader, Emperor Palpatine, and Luke Skywalker. The platform aims to enhance interactive play by combining physical building with digital capabilities, offering a new dimension to the traditional Lego experience. This matters as it represents a significant step in merging physical and digital play, potentially transforming how children engage with toys.