The LEGO Group has introduced an interactive platform combining responsive behaviour with brick play at CES 2026.
LEGO SMART Play, unveiled in a keynote presentation at the annual consumer electronics show, is described as one of the most significant developments in the LEGO System-in-Play since the Minifigure debuted in 1978.
The concept combines physical building with embedded technology using the SMART brick, a new component powered by a custom chip smaller than the standard LEGO stud.
The brick integrates sensors, accelerometers, light/sound detection, an onboard synthesiser and miniature speaker. This is supported by wireless charging, enabling LEGO creations to react in real time to user interaction.
Tom Donaldson, senior vice president and head of creative play lab, said: “The launch of LEGO SMART Play brings creativity, technology and storytelling together to make building worlds and stories even more engaging, and all without a screen.
“We believe we are setting a new standard for interactive, imaginative experiences.”
The system also includes LEGO SMART Tags and Minifigures, which work in tandem with the Brick to trigger contextual sounds and behaviours.
All components are fully compatible with the existing LEGO System-in-Play.
More than 20 patented technologies underpin the platform, developed by the LEGO Group’s Creative Play Lab to deliver what it describes as invisible technology.
The first LEGO SMART Play products will launch on March 1 this year in select markets, debuting with three ‘All-In-One’ LEGO Star Wars sets.
Each will include a LEGO SMART Brick with charger, along with at least one SMART Minifigure and SMART Tag.
Source and image credits: LEGO