As we approach CES 2026, Lego has revealed its latest innovation during a keynote presentation: the most significant update to the Lego brick since its modern design was introduced in 1958.
The new Smart Play system, particularly the Smart Brick, is crafted to integrate seamlessly with Lego's existing play framework. This approach emphasizes hands-on building and tangible play, which are central to Lego's identity.
According to Julia Goldin, Lego’s Chief Product & Marketing Officer, the development of this project has been in the works for eight years. "We are ready to go now, not because we are solving a problem, but because we have great innovation to share," she stated.
The extended development period was crucial for miniaturizing technology, including a custom chip small enough to fit inside a Lego brick, ensuring that Smart Play functions as a true platform without creating a separate ecosystem.
“Everything we have done still is part of the system,” Goldin emphasized, highlighting that Smart Play enhances the existing Lego experience. “This just adds a new dimension.”
Unlike Lego’s Super Mario sets, which relied on a custom figure and a separate ecosystem, the Smart Brick is designed to be compatible with any Lego set, promoting a seamless integration.
Goldin noted, “We learned a lot from the Mario launch. We wanted no screens, no power buttons, and something that anyone could use with any other set.”
The Smart Brick enhances interactivity without detracting from traditional play. It allows characters to trigger sounds and actions as they interact with the set, creating a dynamic experience.
Tom Donaldson, Head of Lego’s Creative Play Lab, echoed this philosophy, stating, “If you have a screen, they tend to suck you in. We love the Lego brick and building with it, and we wanted to magnify that.”
Looking ahead, Goldin believes that Smart Play is just the beginning. While the current focus is on responsiveness through light and sound, the potential for future expansion is vast.
Preorders for the first three Star Wars Smart Play sets have begun, starting with Vader’s Tie Fighter for $69.99 / £59.99 / AU$99.99, which includes a Smart Brick, Charger, Smart Minifigure, and Smart Tag. Other sets include Luke’s X-Wing for $99.99 / £79.99 / AU$149.99 and Throne Room Duel & A-Wing for $159.99 / £139.99 / AU$249.99.
