LEGO made an unusual move at CES 2026 by taking center stage to announce what it calls a fundamental shift in how its toys work, and 'Star Wars' fans will be among the first to try it. The company introduced Smart Play, a new system built around a technology-packed Smart Brick that LEGO says represents its 'most significant evolution in 50 years'. For a brand known for resisting dramatic changes, the message was clear: this is meant to be a turning point.
The Smart Brick keeps the familiar 2×4 shape but hides a compact computer inside. It includes LED lights, a speaker, motion and light sensors, proximity detection, and a microphone, all powered by a wirelessly rechargeable battery. Each set includes a charging pad capable of charging multiple bricks at once, and LEGO says the battery is designed to remain functional even after long periods of inactivity.
Smart Play goes beyond a single brick. LEGO is also introducing Smart Minifigures and NFC-enabled Smart Tags, allowing pieces to detect one another’s position and orientation. When connected, the elements respond in real time with coordinated light and sound effects. LEGO stresses that the system works without screens, positioning it as an extension of traditional hands-on play rather than a replacement for it.
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The first Smart Play sets arrive March 1, including LEGO 'Star Wars'. Initial releases include Darth Vader’s TIE Fighter, Luke Skywalker’s Red Five X-wing, and a Throne Room Duel set featuring Vader, Luke, and Emperor Palpatine. LEGO says these sets allow builders to recreate iconic moments while the bricks react dynamically as ships move, cannons fire, and characters interact.
Fan reaction was immediate and mixed. Some commenters loved the potential, while some longtime LEGO builders questioned whether new electronics belong in a system prized for simplicity and longevity. After watching the 'Star Wars' demo, one fan questioned how well they'd work for children if even 'nerdy adult men are having this much difficulty even making the things work.'
LEGO executives have emphasized that Smart Play contains no artificial intelligence and no camera. The goal, they say, is to combine storytelling, creativity, and technology while keeping play tactile and open-ended. Whether Smart Play becomes a lasting pillar of the LEGO system or a niche experiment, it marks one of the company’s most ambitious attempts to evolve the brick without abandoning its core identity
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