At CES 2026, Lego unveiled an exciting new product: the Lego Smart Play system. This marks a major leap for Lego, on par with the introduction of the Minifigure nearly 50 years ago.
The Lego Smart Play system allows kids to engage in interactive, imaginative play without screens. With just one Smart Brick, players can enter a vibrant world of sounds, lights, and responsive elements. It includes Lego Smart Tags, Smart Bricks, and Smart Minifigures that work together to bring creations to life.
During the CES event in Las Vegas, Lego’s leadership showed how this technology works. They demonstrated how Lego cars could roar to life, a Lego duck could quack, and even snore when tipped. Adding more Smart Bricks creates a networked experience, making play even more dynamic.
“For over 90 years, we’ve ignited creativity in children worldwide. As we evolve, so do our products. Lego Smart Play is an exciting new chapter for us,” said Julia Goldin, Lego’s Chief Product & Marketing Officer.
The new sets will launch on March 1, featuring three Lego Star Wars builds. Dave Filoni, Chief Creative Officer at Lucasfilm, presented the new kits, highlighting their special features.
The Smart Play system, developed by Lego’s Creative Play Lab, incorporates advanced technology with small components. Lego boasts that it includes more than twenty patented innovations, such as a custom chip smaller than a Lego stud.
Each Smart Brick and Minifigure contains various sensors, like accelerometers and sound detectors. They can differentiate colors and sounds and even sense distance. For example, during a demo, two kids raced Lego cars. A Smart Brick-embedded trophy determined the winner by lighting up and playing celebratory sounds when the winning vehicle was placed on it.
Some Star Wars sets include:
- Lego Star Wars Smart Play: Luke’s Red Five X-Wing – This 584-piece set has two Smart Minifigures and a variety of interactive features.
- Lego Star Wars Smart Play: Darth Vader’s TIE Fighter – A 473-piece set featuring Darth Vader and including exciting sounds.
- Lego Star Wars Smart Play: Throne Room Duel – With 962 pieces, it allows re-enactment of iconic moments, like the lightsaber duel between Luke and Vader, complete with multiple Smart Minifigures.
Recent studies show that children are increasingly gravitating toward digital experiences for play and learning. The Lego Smart Play system could bridge the gap between traditional physical play and modern technology, promoting imaginative thinking in a tech-savvy generation. For further details about this innovative platform, check out the Lego Smart Play website.
