Spin Master

Greetings from New York in 2017!

By Reyne Rice, Global Trend Hunter, Reporter/ Analyst, New York, New York Leave a Comment Jan 30

Greetings Toy, Games & Toy Tech fans! Thanks for visiting my newly updated website!

So what’s new with me? I’m excited to bring you the latest news on what’s happening at Key ToyFairs and events in North America, and across the global world of Toys & Games, Kids & Family technology, Entertainment & Licensing. I am constantly on the lookout for new trends and products that affect kids and families with the “Trickle Down Effect” (What is happening now in adult products, will trickle down to kids products within the next 12 to 18 months, or before!) Kids toys have never been more fun, interactive or engaging.

I spent the New Year at the International CES in Las Vegas in January 2017, & previewed the latest technology products for kids and families. Live from the Kids at Play Summit, I reported live news and clips of hot new tech trends, worked with the other KAPI Jurors to judge and award the Best of the Best in KAPi (Kids at Play Innovations) Awards, and got to see, and play with the latest drones, robots, electronic pets, STEM to STEAM to STREAM products, and just be a big kid in the world of technology. Yup, I do LOVE my career!

Then, I flew over to Germany to play in the biggest playground in the world at the Spielwarenmesse 2017 ToyFair in Nuremberg, Germany, where 18 halls of toys, games, kids tech, baby and infant products, costumes and more were waiting to be discovered. (See my blog posts from that Fair, here on my blog page, as well as connections to articles where I was recently quoted). As their lead Global Trend Hunter and a part of the Trend Committee, I was busy reporting on the news, meeting with other journalists from around the world, providing daily Trend Gallery 2017 Speeches, providing journalist overviews at the new Tech2Play Pavillion and presenting then latest innovations in Future Emerging Tech, in the Toy Business Forum.

In mid-February, I returned to New York City for the American International ToyFair and the Digital Kids Conference for more trend sleuthing, digital toy trend presentations , media coverage and playing with games, toys and kids technology! Saw more amazing products, and met so many new manufacturers, in the Innovation Zones, Creative Factor areas and in the show floor exhibits.

Then back to Europe, in late February, to provide a Keynote speech at the Eastern European Kids Time Toy and Baby Fair in Kielce, Poland. This trade show focuses on sales to and between many European, Eastern European, Russian and other countries (17 counties in all, attended this year), My coverage will be appearing in April 2017 issues of the ToyBook and other international publications.

In early April, I travel to Bologna Italy, where I will be one of the KeyNote Speakers for the Bologna Licensing Trade Fair, which is running concurrently with the Digital Media Hall and the Bologna International Book Fair. There, I will be featuring a presentation on the latest Digital Trends in Toys and their impact on the kids toys & licensing business. I will share the stage with Kidz Global Research Kids & Digital study results and the power of Spin Master in new technology product arenas. More news to follow.

Living with Passion,

Reyne

Why Tech Toys are Here to Stay

By Reyne Rice, Global Trend Hunter, Reporter/ Analyst, New York, New York Leave a Comment Nov 14

Originally posted on Spielwarenmesse.com

Besides being fun, and incredibly engaging, tech toys and games have evolved into amazing new categories of play that offer thrills and tap into new skills for kids and adults. These new segments include robots and RC drones, electronic pets, 3D printing, virtual play, and also incorporate new technologies such as virtual reality, augmented reality, and even artificial intelligence.

The most exciting premise of these new technological toys is that they encourage kids to be active creators of their play experiences. By inspiring kids to embrace an active creator playstyle, instead of a passive consumer mindset, we are evolving kids into being vested in the process of building, making, creating and customizing their toys. This has developed a whole generation of kids that take more risks and are becoming more confident “Do-It-Yourself” kids. When kids start to ask “What if?”, then we have got them thinking. Encouraging experimentation and curiosity are important, active life skills.

Here is a review of the top new segments that are emerging, and some of the players that are leading the charge. Get excited, and get in on the fun. The best way to learn new technology is to place it into the hands of kids you know, and play right alongside them.

Electronic Pets

As kids become more sophisticated and adept at technology, their toy electronic pets have also become more interactive. The CogniToy Dino, is a cloud-based WiFi Connected Toy that allows kids to engage in intelligent conversations. C.H.I.P is an electronic puppy who is trained by their owner to follow a child, to learn tricks and even to play with an object that uses beacon sense smart technology (Wow-Wee).

Spin Master has created a variety of smart technology pets in multiple play iterations. Their Meccano Meccasaur uses sensors and touch-points that are built into the creature, so that kids just need to activate the touchpoints to get reactions such as roars, speech, attack mode and other playful sounds. Hatchimals, (Spin Master) offer a new form of nurturing play, to evolve new characters that actually hatch from their inner eggshell over time, to become unique, functioning, interactive pets. Zoomer Chimp is a playful chimpanzee that uses smart technology to sense its owner and to respond to tricks and commands.

Robot Toys

So many new iterations here engage kids to teach and control their robots. Coji Emoticon Robot by Wow-Wee uses emoticons as the social and emotional intelligence programming language. Dash and Dot (Wonder Workshop) teach coding to preschoolers and older kids can create more sophisticated programs, such as devising obstacle courses, or building with accessories, to create more complicated stunts and actions. OzoBot mini one-inch robots and the Sphero BB-8 robot have both encouraged character-based play with coding sequences that surprise and delight kids as users.

RC Drones

From the smallest portable Pocket Drone, by Odyssey Toys that folds as flat as a credit card to the most sophisticated DJI Phantom 4K camera flying drones, there is a wide spectrum of flying RC drones to choose from. Horizon Hobby has launched their First-Person-View (FPV) drones to experience the thrill of racing, as seen through the pilot’s eyeglasses. Other key stand-out manufacturers in this segment include SilverLit, SkyRocket Toys, Revell, Carrera, and AuldeyToys.

Virtual Play

1. Augmented Reality

More companies are using augmented reality technology in ways that are more elegant and playful, for the end user. AirHogs Connect: Mission Drone Augmented Reality RC, by Spin Master incorporates drone technology, and uses an augmented reality controller as a viewing device. The built-in play pattern is all about initiating and completing missions, while actively playing, and flying your drone.

Reach Robotics MekaMon battling Robots, Anki OverDrive Racing vehicles, and WowWee R.E.V vehicles and R.E.V Air drones all encourage kids to drive their air and land vehicles, with dexterity and purpose.

R.E.V. : Robotic Enhanced Vehicles by WowWee Extended Version

2. Electronic Learning

With a continued emphasis on STEM Learning, more manufacturers are adding coding, programming and logic-building into toys and games. The Fisher-Price Think N Learn Code-A-Pillar teaches the basics of computer programming to preschoolers who add segments to a caterpillar-shaped toy. Each connectable segment represents a coded command which the caterpillar will execute in sequence, such as turning, moving forward or reverse, adding sound components and more.

Vtech Go Go Smart toys, little Bits Gadgets & Gizmos, Sphero S.P.R.K Edition, Kosmos Verlag Kosmo Bits (CodeMaker in the USA), Happy Atoms by Thames & Kosmos, LEGO Education WeDo Version 2, HexBugs VEX Robotics, Marbotics alphabet blocks, Tiggly Learning, Edwin the Duck (pi labs), and OSMO (Tangible Play), are all new manufacturers who are joining this STEM to STREAM (Science, Technology, Robotics, Engineering, Art and Mathematics) movement.

Think & Learn Code-a-pillar™ | Fisher-Price

3. Virtual Reality

Google and Mattel partnered to re-invent the ViewMaster adding new 360 degree viewing capabilities to an old classic. Mel-Science has developed Science Kits that incorporate VR viewing in the final experiment stages, to make the learning even more relevant. Zing Toys has added a Green Screen Stage to their StikBots products, to encourage kids to create and share their digital movies and scenes, via an immensely popular social media gallery website.

View-Master® Virtual Reality 360° Experience

3D Printing

These products bring concepts to life in a very tangible way, using 3D and 4D modeling. Whether kids use a 3D printer to create their toys, or a 3D doodling pen, to build products with filaments in the air, the excitement is in building something unique in the colors and combinations of the kids choosing.

Some examples include: Mattel ThingMaker 3D printer, XYZ Printing Robot Building Systems, 3D Magic ImagiPen (Tech 4 Kids), The original 3D Doodler Pen, and their newer 3D doodler Starter Kit, SkyRocket Toys 3D Chocolate Pen, and Redwood Ventures 3D Drawing Pen.

Early Bird Holiday Toys 2016

By Reyne Rice, Global Trend Hunter, Reporter/ Analyst, New York, New York Leave a Comment Oct 1

Originally posted on DailyLounge.com.

Ready to get a jumpstart on your holiday shopping? Toy Expert, Reyne Rice, has the toys that are topping your kid’s lists!

Brightlings from Spin Master

The Brightlings from Spin Master are interactive dolls that will be your kid’s silliest sidekick. Kids can have so much fun playing more than 100 silly sayings, or recording anything and then playing it back in Brightlings’ unique voice. Tilt their head from side to side to change the voice from high to low. Create your own song in 6 different styles of music including pop, yodeling, opera, and even beat boxing. These dolls are loveable and fun – perfect for kids as they’re exploring their creativity. Click here to learn more!

Schleich’s Big Adventure at the Waterhole

Kids will go wild over the Schleich’s Big Adventure at the Waterhole. This playset features over 20 wild animals and accessories – including an exclusively painted white lion and lion cub. Awarded the National Parenting Product Award, this playset is a perfect introduction to wildlife. With over 100 animals to collect, your child can truly explore the world of wild animals. Click here to learn more!

Riding Center from Schleich’s Horse Club

Another winner of the 2016 National Parenting Product Award and Seal of Approval, the Riding Center from Schleich’s Horse Club is a great addition to any child’s horse collection. With over 40 accessories, including an Arabian mare with rider, children can create a separate riding arena to add to their adventures. Learn more here.

GeoSmart: Remote Control Mars Explorer

GeoSmart, from Smart Toys and Games, has evolved the future of magnetic construction. It begins with strong magnets, bright colors, and durable pieces. You can get an open ended set for hours of creativity or get this Remote Control Mars Explorer Vehicle Magnetic Building Set. The pieces feature a patented double-lock safety system and are a great choice for fun, creative, STEM learning, at home or in the classroom. Click here to learn more!

Worry Eaters

These incredibly soft plush pals are not only great to cuddle with, they also have an appetite for worries! Worry Eaters from the Haywire Group are a great way to share your troubles. Simply write down what is worrying you, zip it up in your pal’s mouth, and let them carry your concerns for you. A helpful tool for parents to find out what their child is thinking, and to teach them how to successfully cope and problem-solve. Click here to learn more!

CES 2016 Ignites Tech with Innovation

By Reyne Rice, Global Trend Hunter, Reporter/ Analyst, New York, New York Leave a Comment Feb 5

Originally posted on TheToybook.com

The latest and greatest innovations rocked the tech world at the annual Consumer Electronics Show, held in Las Vegas from Jan. 6-9. Trade guests viewed the latest virtual reality headsets; flew unmanned systems and drones; test-drove the newest automotive vehicles with built-in enhanced entertainment and digital connectivity for kids and families; and marveled at the enhanced 4-D TV and home entertainment systems. Hands-on experiences and product testing dominated the crowded show floor as global exhibitors showcased their newest launch products, services, apps, and devices.

R.E.V. Air, from WowWee

The show has expanded to include the technology services, software, apps, developments, and alliances that will continue to improve lives, solve problems, and delight gadget lovers across the globe. This expanded charter has prompted the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) change its name to the Consumer Technology Association (CTA).

With more than 3,600 companies covering more than 2.3 million net square feet of exhibit space, CES 2016 included pavilions focusing on virtual and augmented reality, drones, robotics, automotive, health and fitness tech, 3-D printing, wearables, smart home, and Internet of Things (iOT) smart connected devices. An expanded presence for augmented reality, virtual reality, and gaming revealed the newest wave of immersive media in the new Gaming and Virtual Reality Marketplace. Attendees also gained insights from professionals and experts at the over 200 conference sessions available, throughout the CES 2016.

Entertainment Matters and Digital Entertainment expanded to cover events, exhibitors and conference sessions at the Tech South Aria Resort location, with additional exhibits in Tech East and Tech West. The Eureka Park new start-up area exploded to 500 exhibitors, indicating that an increasing amount of companies are targeting this lucrative and expanding technology arena.

Think & Learn Code-a-Pillar, from Fisher-Price

New Toys, Games, and Kids Technology products were introduced at CES 2016, including the following:

Fisher-Price revealed its Think & Learn Code-A-Pillar, the first in a series of products which will be unveiled in 2016, to expose children to the foundational skills of coding, using thinking skills, problem solving, and sequencing.

Lego Education rolled out its enhanced WeDo 2.0 products, based on the Next Generation Science Standards. This program combines LEGO bricks, classroom-friendly software, and standards-based projects, to deliver real-world science projects to elementary classrooms.

Odyssey Toys launched a number of new drones, including the amazing Pocket Drone. This drone flattens to the size of a credit card, with the quad rotors folding neatly inside. Pop it out and within 30 seconds, users can activate their anywhere-anytime drone experience.

WowWee introduced CHiP, a robotic pup, with a follow-me feature, gaming, and tricks, all enhanced by the company’s proprietary BeaconSense technology. In addition, R.E.V. Air takes artificial intelligence to the skies, and the LUMI quadcopter adds new play patterns to drone technology.

Spin Master expanded AirHogs to the next level with augmented reality in the new Air Hogs Connect. This technology will allow frequent enhanced updates and upgrades, adding significant value to the Air Hogs experience.

Air Hogs Connect, from Spin Master

Moff Bands has now partnered with both PBS and Bandai, offering a variety of new fitness and classic play options to their easy-interface wearable smart band technology. Pacman is now a kid’s gesture-activated video game experience.

Sphero Star Wars BB-8, will now use Force Band wearable technology band to use gesture control to activate the robotic droid.

Numerous new exhibitors from Taiwan, Korea, India and, Europe have added new play patterns and play systems for fitness, drones, programming and coding robots, 3D printing and robotics, and more. As the year unfolds, we will reveal more of this latest technology that spans multiple toy, game, and tech categories.

Last Minute Gifts for Kids 2015

By Reyne Rice, Global Trend Hunter, Reporter/ Analyst, New York, New York Leave a Comment Dec 14

Originally posted on DailyLounge.com.

Christmas is next week, are you ready? Yeah, we’re not either. Good thing we have Toy Trend Expert, Reyne Rice, to give us a heads up on some of the hottest Last Minute Gifts for kids this holiday season!

GameStop

GameStop is THE PLACE to help holiday shoppers find the gaming and tech items on their lists. With the LEGO Dimensions starter pack, you’ve got the classic LEGO building bricks, mini-figures, and the added magic of video gaming in the newest toys to life creation. It features Batman fighting side by side with Gandalf and Wyldstyle! GameStop has ALL the games that feature interactive figures like Skylanders, Disney Infinity, and Nintendo’s amiibo. Now you and your kids can play together with the characters you remember from YOUR childhood, too! They have deals on games for the whole family on ANY gaming system. Visit GameStop.com to learn more!

Bunchems by Spin Master

The award-winning Bunchems by Spin Master are the latest creation for kids. Bunchems are soft plastic spheres that squish, connect and stick together for hours of fun. Kids can pull them apart and start fresh. With over 400 pieces in the MegaPack, kids can start playing right out of the box. Accessories like eyes, wings, hats, and feet personalize kids’ creations. For children who may want some idea-starters, there are easy-to-follow instructions for creating owls, bears, cars, monkeys and more! The smaller Creation Packs have 60 pieces to create things like bugs and pets which are great stocking stuffers. Click here to learn more.

Laser Pegs

The original light-up brick construction toy is Laser Pegs which combine lights and building, two things every kids loves! Children will have fun constructing illuminated helicopters, jets, cars and more. Laser Pegs come with a patented “Slide, Stack and Spin” feature. These translucent colored blocks foster STEM concepts using technology, engineering, and math skills. They also encourage hand-eye coordination, creativity, and language learning. They offer a great value becauase you can build multiple models and they are compatible with other “leading” brick sets. Visit LaserPegs.com to learn more!

Mastermind Game

A fast, simple strategy game to continue your kids’ STEM education in a fun way is Matermind from Pressman Toy. It is one of the best-selling games of all time for kids ages 8 and up. The Codemaker sets a secret code, then the Codebreaker tries to match the code using logic, deduction, and a little bit of luck. It’s an easy-to-learn quick moving game with more than 2,000 possible code combinations. It makes the game different every time it’s played! Parents will love that all of the game’s pieces can be stored in the game board. No mess! Click here to learn more.

Early Holiday Toys 2015

By Reyne Rice, Global Trend Hunter, Reporter/ Analyst, New York, New York Leave a Comment Oct 1

Originally posted on DailyLounge.com.

The holidays are right around the corner and we have an insider’s look at the hottest toys and games of the season!

Guitar Hero Live

Guitar Hero, the pop culture phenomenon from Activision, makes its return with Guitar Hero Live. It’s a first-person, live-action gaming experience where the player is the star of the show! Feel the rush of being on stage and experience the reaction of the crowd. The game also introduces GHTV, a 24-hour playable music video network that lets fans play along to a constantly-updated collection of official music videos from classic rock to the newest hits. Players can compete with their friends, as well as players from across the globe. The guitar controller has been redesigned to feature six buttons so it looks and feels more authentic and is fun for players of all abilities. Learn more about Guitar Hero Live here.

Laser Pegs

Laser Pegs is the original light-up brick construction toy that combines lights and building, two things every kid loves! Imagine the fun children will have when constructing illuminated monster trucks, space jets, cars, animals, tanks, and more! Each kit includes instructions to build multiple models. Laser Pegs come with a patented “Slide, Stack, and Spin” feature. The sets provide STEM learning, hand/eye coordination, creativity, math, spatial and language skills. A great value because they are compatible with the “Leading” brick sets. Learn more here.

Little Charmers

Kids will love role-playing with Hazel, the popular lead character from the new Little Charmers TV show. Bring home all the magic of Charmville with 12″ Hazel Magic Doll from Spin Master. She is dressed in her signature “charmer-in-training” outfit that includes her removable hat and extraordinary cape. Watch as Hazel’s cape magically disappears with just the press of a button! She comes with her charismatic kitty, Seven, her special magic wand, a hairbrush, and can say eight charming phrases! This is great for ages 3+. Learn more here.