# Miniature Robotic Ball Toys The Sphero Mini Lets Kids Get Started with Programming By Michael Hemsworth | Published 2017-09-29 | Tech Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sphero-mini References: [uncrate](https://uncrate.com/article/sphero-mini-robotic-ball/) & [sphero](http://www.sphero.com/sphero-mini) [STEM education](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lego-education-science-kits) has become an essential part of the curriculum for young minds, which is seeing new product developments like the Sphero Mini [robotic ball toy](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wicked-ball-rolly) be released. The toy is packed with the same technology that is found in the brand's other creations yet features a compact design and a very affordable price point. The Sphero Mini has a size that's about as small as a ping-pong ball that can be controlled via the Sphero Edu app that is [programmable using basic JavaScript](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ari-by-ozobot). This gets kids involved in programming without having to take any extensive lessons to ensure it's suitable for kids of all experience levels. The toy comes with a few mini accessories to get kids or adults started playing with it right out of the box. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 4.5/10 - Popularity: 69% | Activity: 59% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Gen Alpha - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Robots](https://www.trendhunter.com/robots) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **STEM Education:** The rise of STEM education in the curriculum presents an opportunity for innovative educational toys like the Sphero Mini to engage young minds in programming. - **Programmable Toys:** The Sphero Mini's programmable features showcase the potential for creating more interactive and educational toys that can teach programming concepts to children. - **Compact Design:** The Sphero Mini's small size demonstrates a trend towards developing more portable and versatile robotic toys, opening up new possibilities for play and learning. ### Where This Applies - **Toy Manufacturing:** The miniature robotic ball toy market offers opportunities for toy manufacturers to develop innovative, programmable toys that cater to the growing demand for educational products. - **Edtech:** The Sphero Mini's integration with the Sphero Edu app highlights the potential for EdTech companies to create interactive learning experiences through programming tools and toys. - **Consumer Electronics:** The Sphero Mini's technological advancements in a miniaturized form factor indicate the potential for disruptive innovation in the consumer electronics industry, particularly in the field of robotics and smart toys. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [STEM Education Classroom Robots](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-sphero-bolt.md) - [Programmable Robot Toys](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mini-robots.md) - [Educational Programmable Robots](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/robomaster-s1.md) - [All-Ages Mini Robot Kits](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/educational-robot-kit.md) - [Programming Code-Powered Toy Cars](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/zerone-2.md) - [Reprogrammable Robot Companions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/quarky.md) - [Coding Education Car Toys](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/smart-coding-car.md) - [Technical Education Car Toys](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/gocar.md) - [Programmable Pocket-Sized Robots](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/kt2-kungfu-turtle.md)