The world number one in toys innovates and strikes a major blow. Surprise guest of CES 2026, the major high-tech show which is held every January in Las Vegas, LEGO unveiled its “smart brick”, an element of its entire “Smart Play” system.
The famous plastic brick company has decided to enter the world of tech alongside companies like Samsung, LG or Nvidia to present a new version of its modest plastic brick. This has undergone a spectacular technological transformation and could revolutionize the way children and adults play with these plastic bricks.
According to the brand, Smart Play is the “biggest innovation since the first LEGO minifigure in 1978”. With this new system, the goal is to “bring to life” creations without a screen. In short, it’s LEGO bricks that answer them. “We wanted LEGO brick creations to come to life and react precisely to the way we interact with them,” explains the Danish brand, which boasts “unchartered territory for toys.”
So that the construction aspect keeps control over the technological aspect which should not be too present, so as not to limit children’s creativity, LEGO has developed a discreet chip which fits inside a classic 2×4 brick. Note that these bricks are recharged wirelessly thanks to a base allowing several to be recharged simultaneously.
“Star Wars” figures can battle each other
These smart bricks incorporate light and sound effects, as well as sensors to detect movement, tilt and gestures. Each “smart brick” knows precisely where the others are. “This means that these elements can react to the presence of others, know what position they are in, if they are turned, swing,” says the world number one toy company.
So ships and “Star Wars” figures can race against each other, cars make engine noises that differ depending on whether the vehicle moves forward normally or overturns. Just like if fans launch LEGO cars at full speed towards the finish line, the “smart brick” will know which car crossed the line first and emit sounds to that effect. A LEGO dog could react to the presence of a LEGO cat nearby and start barking.
The first will be available for delivery from March 1, and will all be LEGO Star Wars. It will be possible to pre-order them from this Friday, January 9.
If this is therefore limited for the moment to a few Star Wars sets, “LEGO Smart Play will continue to develop thanks to new updates, launches and innovative technologies”, assures the company.