Lego Introduces Smart Brick, Transforming Classic Toy with Digital Innovation

Lego has launched its innovative Smart Play platform at CES in Las Vegas, elevating the classic toy into a tech-enabled, interactive realm, all while avoiding screens. This new system centers around a unique Smart Brick, designed to enhance playtime with sound and light effects.

Lego Smart Brick: A New Era of Play

The Smart Brick is the same size as a traditional 2×4 Lego brick. However, it boasts extensive technology, including sensors and a custom chip smaller than a standard Lego stud. This allows it to connect with compatible Smart Minifigures and Smart Tags for a fully interactive experience.

Interactive Play Experiences

• The upcoming Lego Star Wars Smart Play set, launching on March 1, features:
• A 584-piece Luke’s Red Five X-Wing, including two Smart Minifigs: Luke Skywalker and Princess Leia.
• Five Smart Tags that provide realistic sounds such as laser shots and engine roars.
• The set is priced at $100 and supports real-time interaction with sound and light effects.

Three additional Lego Star Wars Smart Play sets will also be available on March 1, with preorders beginning January 9. Highlights include:

• Darth Vader’s TIE Fighter kit, priced at $70, with ion engine sound effects.
• The Throne Room Duel set, featuring 962 pieces at $160, includes three Smart Minifigures: Darth Vader, Emperor Palpatine, and Luke Skywalker.

This Throne Room Duel set allows players to recreate iconic scenes, including the climactic lightsaber battle from Star Wars: Return of the Jedi. As players engage with this set, they can enjoy soundtracks such as “The Imperial March.”

Technological Advancements

Lego claims that the Smart Play platform features over 20 patents developed by their Creative Play Lab and in partnership with Capgemini’s Cambridge Consultants. The technology includes:

• An LED light array.
• Accelerometers, light sensors, and sound sensors.
• A miniature speaker for audio effects.
• A battery designed to last for years, even without use.

The Smart Brick can be wirelessly charged, with a multi-device charging pad available that supports several units simultaneously. This feature adds convenience and enhances the user experience, ensuring play continues uninterrupted.

Lego’s innovative approach paves the way for an exciting future in play, blending traditional building with modern technological advancements.