tech
January 8, 2026
Lego Smart Bricks introduce a new way to build -- and they don't require screens
Lego developed a custom ASIC chip that allows its new Ssmart Bricks to pick up on signals from surrounding Smart Tags that dictate how it should make sounds or light up.

TL;DR
- Lego unveiled its Smart Play system at CES 2026, integrating interactive elements into its toys.
- The system includes Smart Bricks, Smart Tag tiles with unique IDs, and Smart Minifigures.
- Smart Bricks and Minifigures interact with Smart Tags to trigger lights, sounds, and actions relevant to the build.
- An accelerometer within the Smart Bricks enhances interactivity by responding to movement.
- The system uses a patented ASIC chip, miniature speaker, accelerometer, and LED array.
- BrickNet, a Bluetooth protocol, allows multiple Smart Bricks to communicate and work together.
- The Smart Play system requires no screen time and no setup for pairing.
- The first two Smart Play sets, themed around Star Wars, will be released on March 1, with preorders starting Friday.
- The 'Luke's Red Five X-wing' set costs $69.99, and the 'Throne Room Duel and A-wing' set is $159.99.
- These Star Wars sets will animate characters and enable features like Lightsaber duels through interaction with Smart Tags.
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