When standing still, the iDoll looks just like any other collectible anime figurine—but alongside an app, this pretty toy is able to come alive. Through a mobile phone, users are able to control the limbs and joints of these tiny high-tech dolls, which make realistic movements as they dance. In addition to the personality that they bring through movement, the dolls are also able to offer greetings and make jokes as directed through a smartphone.
The palm-sized iDolls developed by Yukai Engineering were recently on display at a SXSW Interactive booth. So far, three versions of the dolls have been developed, including a bare bones-style prototype model and two cute characters dressed in full costumes.
App-Controlled Dancing Dolls
Yukai Engineering's iDoll Makes Realistic Moves Directed by a Phone
Trend Themes
1. App-controlled Toys - Opportunities for businesses to create app-controlled toys that can be remotely operated using a smartphone application.
2. Smartphone Connected Dolls - Innovative doll-making technologies that harness smartphone connectivity to bring dolls to life in a realistic and engaging way.
3. Interactive Collectibles - New avenues for entrepreneurs to create collectible items using interactive technologies that are able to bring the product to life and offer a unique user experience.
Industry Implications
1. Toy Manufacturing - Opportunities for toy manufacturers to incorporate app-controlled features into their products in order to offer a more interactive and engaging experience to children.
2. Entertainment - Innovative opportunities for the entertainment industry to utilize connected toys and everyday objects to tell stories and create immersive experiences for their audiences.
3. Consumer Electronics - The emerging trend of app-controlled dolls presents new opportunities for consumer electronics companies to develop unique and interactive products that can be controlled by smartphones.