Key Takeaways
- Lego’s Smart Play system is a new digital technology that enhances play experiences with proximity sensors, accelerometers, color sensors, and speakers.
- The system includes Smart Bricks, Smart Tags, and Smart Minifigures that work together to create interactive experiences.
- The first Smart Play sets are based on Star Wars and include features like sound effects, music, and character voices.
- The Smart Play system is designed for kids and aims to encourage social play and creativity.
- The technology has the potential to be expanded to other Lego sets and properties, offering endless possibilities for creative play.
Introduction to Smart Play
Lego’s Smart Play system, announced at CES 2026, marks a significant shift in the company’s approach to digital technology. The system consists of three main elements: Smart Bricks, Smart Tags, and Smart Minifigures. Each Smart Brick is packed with technology, including proximity sensors, accelerometers, color sensors, and speakers, all powered by a tiny chip. To bring a set to life, the Smart Brick must be combined with either Smart Tags or Smart Minifigures, which contain specific instructions that help the Brick understand its context.
Hands-On Demo
A recent demo of the Smart Play system showcased its capabilities, featuring three small Lego builds: a car, a helicopter, and a duck. Each build had a unique Smart Tag that the Smart Brick used to respond to real-world stimulus. For example, the car made engine noises that changed depending on how it was played with. The Smart Brick can also sense specific Smart Minifigures and respond accordingly. In the case of the Star Wars sets, the Minifigures can make characteristic sounds, such as Darth Vader’s breathing or Luke Skywalker’s lightsaber hum.
Star Wars Sets
The first three Smart Play sets are based on Star Wars and include features like sound effects, music, and character voices. The Throne Room Duel & A-Wing set, for instance, includes Smart Minifigures for Darth Vader, Luke Skywalker, and Emperor Palpatine, as well as Smart Tags that correspond to various actions. The set also features a clever light saber duel, where the Smart Brick responds to the movement of the Minifigures and the Smart Tags. The other two sets, Darth Vader’s TIE Fighter and Luke’s Red Five X-Wing, showcase the Smart Brick’s ability to handle multiple inputs and create immersive play experiences.
Design and Durability
The Smart Play sets are designed to withstand more abuse from active play scenarios than the average Lego set. The TIE fighter and X-Wing, for example, are specifically designed to fit well in a kid’s hand, allowing them to run around and propel them through the air. The Throne Room set features a detachable area where Luke and Vader can battle, making it easy to separate and reattach for more aggressive light saber battles.
Future Possibilities
The Smart Play system has the potential to be expanded to other Lego sets and properties, offering endless possibilities for creative play. The idea of combining different franchises, such as Star Wars with Jurassic World or DC, feels like a recipe for chaotic fun that kids will love. Lego’s goal is to encourage social play amongst kids, and the Smart Play system seems like an excellent way to achieve this. With no screens, apps, or setup required, the system is exceedingly easy to pick up and start playing, making it an attractive option for kids and parents alike.
Conclusion
The Smart Play system is an exciting development in the world of Lego, offering a new level of interactivity and creativity for kids. With its focus on social play and imagination, the system has the potential to inspire a new generation of Lego fans. As the technology continues to evolve and expand to other sets and properties, it will be interesting to see how Lego builds upon this foundation and creates even more immersive and engaging play experiences.