Looking for the most technologically advanced toys? Toy Insider Mom Laurie Schacht stopped by NBC in Chicago to talk about the coolest new toys and games for your tiny techie. For more on the products featured in this segment, check out the notes below, and for more on the hottest new toys of the season be sure to view our Spring and Summer Toy Guide.
LIGHTSEEKERS STARTER KIT (TOMY INTERNATIONAL)
- Introducing Lightseekers, an action adventure role playing game built for mobile devices that fuses together fantasy and reality, integrating video games and smart action figures with the latest in artificial intelligence, augmented reality, interactive trading cards and more.
- The powerful mini-computer, known as the FusionCore, is embedded within each action figure and is the “brains” behind the smart connected toys. This completely eliminates the need for cumbersome NFC portals, allowing two-way communication between TOMY’s 7” collector-quality, articulated smart action figures and the robust action adventure role-play game.
- Players can take their experience to another level, adding physical accessories to their figures and scanning trading cards with the Lightseekers game app to customize their gameplay.
- Age: 8+
- MSRP: $69.99
- Available: Toys “R” Us
VEX IQ Robotics Construction Kit (Hexbug)
- VEX IQ is a robotics platform designed to foster STEM learning by allowing you to build custom and programmable robots. With VEX IQ, you can jump right in and snap together these colorful robots using the intuitive, tool-less components.
- 2 programming software options – Modkit for VEX (free online version) or ROBOTC VEX IQ Curriculum – Free for all users!
- Video game style remote control with a rechargeable lithium ion battery
- Robot Brain with 12 self-configuring input/output ports
- Age: 8+
- MSRP: $299.99
- Available: Target, Best Buy
IDO3D 3D PRINT SHOP (REDWOODVENTURES)
- RedwoodVenturesintroduces IDO3D Print Shop, a battery-operated tech device that provides a simple-function 3D printing experience for kids.
- From jewelry to vehicles, construction bricks to collectibles, fashion accessories to figures and more, the IDO3D Print Shop empowers kids to imagine and create any 3D object they desire or to clone those they already own.
- Without the need for complicated 3D modeling software, the 3D Print Shop builds objects in just minutes by using IDO3D’s award-winning 3D technology and a new leading edge “Formula 4D” system, designed to form and then reform molds in any shape.
- Made with a brilliant mechanical design, IDO3D Print Shop offers an engaging, fulfilling and unforgettable experience for children.
- Each 3D print shop includes one 3D Print Shop machine, numerous assorted 3D Printshop accessories, assorted 3D Ink cartridges, and the infinitely reusable “Formula 4D.”
- Ages: 8+
- MSRP: $59.99
- Available: Michaels, Target
Sky Viper V2450 Streaming Drone with FPV headset (Skyrocket Toys)
- Fly in first person with the Sky Viper V2450 Streaming Drone with FPV headset. With a free app and included headset, users can see what their drone sees in high definition.
- Maintain a stable hover in mid-air with no hands on the controller. Lets you focus on getting the perfect picture.
- Press and hold stunt button to perform killer flips and barrel rolls with a simple tap of the directional stick.
- Age: 12+
- SRP:
- Available: Toys “R” Us, Target, Amazon, Walmart
