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Lego Unveils Screen-Free Smart Play Platform, Launching First in Three Star Wars Sets

The screen-free system embeds sensors, audio, and wireless charging in a standard 2x4 brick, with experts already raising price and privacy questions.

Overview

  • Debuted at CES 2026, Smart Play centers on a 2x4 Smart Brick that reacts in real time using accelerometers, light and sound sensing, a miniature speaker, and wireless charging.
  • A custom mixed-signal ASIC runs a bespoke Play Engine, while a Bluetooth-based BrickNet protocol lets Smart Bricks share data without apps, hubs, or screens.
  • The platform adds Smart Tags and Smart Minifigures with unique IDs that trigger context-aware behaviors, and Lego says all components remain compatible with existing elements.
  • Three Lego Star Wars All-in-One sets open preorders on January 9 and go on sale March 1, with list prices roughly spanning $69 to $160 depending on piece counts and included Smart components.
  • Lego states the system is not internet-connected, uses encryption, and includes no camera or generative AI, though researchers caution that hacking and privacy risks can still emerge over time.