# Phone-Controlled Block Toys The Lego Mindstorms EV3 Series Provides More Socially Connected Robots By Meghan Young | Published 2013-01-08 | Life-Stages Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lego-mindstorms-ev3 References: [fastcodesign](http://www.fastcodesign.com/1671568/lego-unveils-mindstorms-ev3-a-robot-kit-thats-iphone-controlled) & [lego](http://www.lego.com/) Aside from creating new characters, vehicles and scenarios, LEGO hasn't had to innovate too much to keep up the building blocks' appeal with both children and adults; nevertheless, the [Lego](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lego-smart-bricks) Mindstorms EV3 shows that introducing technology into the equation can help to make them more relevant in today's hi-tech world. In this case, the Lego Mindstorms EV3 takes on the form of a robot, which can be controlled via an [iPhone](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/iphone-gaming-controller), allowing it to be more socially connected as well. The series is comprised of five characters, from a snake-like creature to a humaniod, each of which can be playable within 20 minutes of receiving it. Available later in 2013, the Lego Mindstorms EV3 is the first major redesign the Mindstorms series has undergone in six years. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 2.1/10 - Popularity: 39% | Activity: 16% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 70% men, 30% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Gen Alpha, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Life-Stages](https://www.trendhunter.com/life-stages) > [Toys](https://www.trendhunter.com/toys) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **Phone-controlled Toys:** Opportunity for incorporating smartphone connectivity into traditional toys. - **Socially Connected Robots:** Potential to create interactive robots that can connect with other devices and users. - **Technology-enhanced Building Blocks:** Innovation in building block toys by integrating technology features for added functionality. ### Who This Affects Most - **Toy Manufacturing:** Opportunity for toy manufacturers to create technologically advanced toys. - **Robotics:** Potential for robotics industry to develop socially connected and smartphone-controlled robots. - **Technology and Electronics:** Innovation potential in integrating technology features into traditional products. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Sensor-Driven Play Blocks](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lego-smart-bricks.md) - [Programmable Robot Toys](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mini-robots.md) - [Lego-Centric Apps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/brick-my-world.md) - [3D-Printable Toy Ranges](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/makerworld-cyberbrick.md) - [Multifunctional Game Sets](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-lego-group.md) - [AI-Backed Family Toys](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/2xl-cobot.md) - [Brick Builder Community Apps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lego-play-app.md) - [STEM-Driven Building Block Kits](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lego-education-science-kits.md) - [Galactic Robot-Inspired Puzzle Series](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lego-r2d2.md)