Technology

With a renewed strategic focus on the family market, the XR experts are bolstering their knowledge of child-friendly games, connected play products and technology use in visitor attractions.

Targeting Generation Z - made up of over 73 million people in the US alone, the smart toys, apps and games segment generates $44 billion in annual spending, while an estimated 75 per cent of the under 13 market owns its own smart device.

Through its appointment, Child’s Play will be responsible for managing media relations to launch and support the brand in the US.

This is Moose Toys’ extended move into youth electronics, one of the fastest growing toy categories in the world.

Kids will be able to build the Iron Man gauntlet, adding wearable tech sensors, in-app block coding, a customisable LED matrix light design and authentic Marvel Avengers sound effects.

The Licensing Hall of Famer and man widely recognised for his efforts in bringing Pokémon and other franchises to the world outside of Asia has cited the ‘magnitude’ of the technology as a must watch area of development for both licensing and the collectables market.

The technology is aimed at kids’ publisher and children’s brands and is part of the company’s larger platform of kid-safe technology, including tools for social engagement, parental controls, advertising and more.

The free app lets users choose from over 40 templates – or create their own – on which they can make virtual bead designs. These final creations are then animated and brought to life.

The virtual reality experience will allow kids to design their own digital rollercoaster, ride it, test it and then build a physical toy version from K’NEX construction kits.

The new partnership marks the first piece of Harry Potter merchandise aimed at helping kids learn STEM and features a Harry Potter wand.