Hailed the "Word of The Year" in 2010 by US-based American Dialect Society, there’s no doubt that apps (or app) has become a buzzword in the computer and mobile phone industries. One of the most interesting spin-offs has been the creation of a growing number of apps toys that divide into two distinct sections; those inspired by apps or those controlled by apps. They are undoubtedly here to stay, and will increase in sophistication as the designers and manufacturers launch new technology.
Apps-Inspired Toys
The mobile phone app and computer virtual world have collided head on with the world of toys. Take Moshi Monsters as one of the early examples, with Vivid Imaginations trying hard to keep up with unprecedented demand. The Angry Birds board game was directly inspired from the mobile phone app of the same name.
Apps-Controlled Toys
There’s hardly a month goes by without a new toy being released that’s controlled by a smartphone or tablet app. Toys like the premium priced Parrot AR Drone are controlled exclusively from an iPhone, with movements of the device being transmitted to the flying machine. Even the ubiquitous Furby has a dedicated app that lets kids create more of the furry little creatures on their screens.
The world's most famous online retailer sells an unparalleled selection of toys.
The original catalogue shop now sells a huge range of toys at great prices.
