LEGO’s Innovative Smart Brick Unveiled at CES 2026

The recent CES 2026 technology conference in Las Vegas has turned eyes towards LEGO with the unveiling of its new smart brick. As concerns about excessive screen time for children grow, this innovative product highlights the importance of physical play. Euronews Next had the opportunity to explore the functionality of these smart bricks firsthand, engage with LEGO and Lucasfilm officials, and learn how this exciting technology operates.

Understanding the LEGO Smart Brick

The LEGO Smart Brick is not just a single block but works in tandem with a small square tag that instructs the brick on its actions. To utilize the Smart Brick, simply attach the tag and give it a shake to awaken it.

Once activated, the Smart Brick can illuminate, interact with other Smart Bricks, emit sounds, and engage in various playful scenarios.

Interactive Features of the Smart Brick

One of the standout features of these Smart Bricks is their ability to communicate with one another. For instance, during a demonstration, a mother LEGO duck and her ducklings were showcased. When the mother’s back was turned, the ducklings misbehaved, producing comical quacking and farting noises. All antics ceased when the mother duck turned back to face them.

Another demonstration involved the ducklings racing on skateboards towards a trophy that also contained a smart brick. Each duck was fitted with a uniquely colored smart brick, and the competition was to see which duck could get closest to the trophy, with the colors matching for an engaging twist.

Availability and Diverse Scenarios

The Smart Bricks are set to debut in March, initially as part of LEGO Star Wars sets. This collaboration adds a layer of interactivity to beloved movie scenarios. Imagine Darth Vader singing on stage, Chewbacca purring when stroked, or an epic lightsaber battle between Luke Skywalker and his nemesis, complete with dynamic sounds and lights.

David Filon, chief creative officer of Lucasfilm, emphasized the time spent refining the sounds and experiences that the Smart Bricks offer. “This technology encourages exploration and discovery through play. The way you maneuver these figures can affect the sounds they make,” he shared. “The more you engage, the richer the experience.”

Physical Play: A Step Towards Innovation

After eight years in development, the Smart Bricks are battery-free and recharge on a pad. Each unit is the standard size of a 2 x 4 brick and has a lifespan of about 45 minutes once activated.

In an era when screen time for children is a pertinent issue, LEGO is presenting this innovative technology as a way to enhance physical play. Tom Donaldson, senior vice president at the LEGO Group, highlighted that while LEGO has successfully created numerous screen-based experiences, the value of physical play is unmatched. “Engaging with building, hiding behind furniture, or even the fun and slight sting of being hit by a dart showcases the multifaceted joys of play,” he remarked.

Looking ahead, Donaldson expressed hope that this technology will inspire other companies to explore ways to promote physical play. “I genuinely believe that imaginative play, in all its forms—be it digital or tangible—will continue to blossom,” he stated.

Conclusion

With the introduction of LEGO’s Smart Brick, the future of play looks exciting. This innovation not only aligns with the growing demand for physical engagement among children but also enriches the play experience with interactive technology. As we await its release, the possibilities for imaginative play are certainly promising.

Key Takeaways

• The LEGO Smart Brick, debuting in March, brings a new interactive play experience.
• Smart Bricks communicate with one another for engaging scenarios.
• Physical play is emphasized amid rising concerns about children’s screen time.
• LEGO aims to inspire further innovations in enriching play for children.