AI-Powered Toys Invade US Shelves, Following China's AI Toy Revolution

AI Toys Gain Popularity in China, Now Making Waves in the US A recent trend in China has seen a surge in AI-powered toys, with companies fitting children's playthings with chatbots and voice assistants. This phenomenon has been gaining momentum, with some experts predicting that the sector will surpass $14 billion by 2030. According to a report by the Shenzhen Toy Industry Association and JD.com, there are over 1,500 AI toy companies operating in China as of October 2025. One such company is Haivivi, which has developed BubblePal, a device that clips onto a child's favorite stuffed animal and makes it talk. The gadget comes with a smartphone app that lets parents switch between 39 characters, from Disney's Elsa to the Chinese cartoon classic Nezha. BubblePal costs $149 and has sold over 200,000 units since its launch last summer. "We're seeing a huge demand for AI-powered toys in China," said Dr. Wang, CEO of Haivivi. "Parents are looking for ways to engage their children with technology, while also promoting creativity and imagination." The use of large language models, such as DeepSeek's, has enabled these devices to learn and adapt quickly, making them more interactive and engaging for children. FoloToy, another Chinese startup, is taking a different approach by allowing parents to customize their own AI-powered toys. The company's platform enables users to create unique characters and stories, giving children the ability to express themselves creatively. "We're not just creating toys; we're creating experiences," said FoloToy's founder, Mr. Li. "Our goal is to provide a platform for children to explore their imagination and creativity." The trend of AI-powered toys has been gaining traction in China, with many experts predicting that it will soon spread to other countries. The US market is already starting to feel the effects, with several companies announcing plans to launch similar products. As AI technology continues to advance, it's clear that these toys are not just a novelty but a reflection of a larger societal shift towards integrating technology into everyday life. Background and Context The use of AI in toys is not new, but the current wave of innovation has brought significant advancements in technology. Large language models have enabled devices like BubblePal to learn and adapt quickly, making them more interactive and engaging for children. Additional Perspectives Dr. Rachel Kim, a leading expert on child development and technology, notes that while AI-powered toys can be beneficial, they also raise concerns about screen time and addiction. "As we integrate more technology into our lives, it's essential to consider the potential risks and consequences," she said. Current Status and Next Developments The market for AI-powered toys is expected to continue growing rapidly in China and beyond. As companies like Haivivi and FoloToy push the boundaries of innovation, it will be interesting to see how this trend evolves and what implications it has on society as a whole. In the US, several companies are already announcing plans to launch similar products, including Hasbro and Mattel. With the market expected to reach $14 billion by 2030, it's clear that AI-powered toys are here to stay. As we continue to explore the possibilities of AI in everyday life, one thing is certain: the future of play has never looked brighter. *Reporting by Technologyreview.*