LEGO is pivoting toward a high-tech future. On January 5, 2026, the company introduced the Smart Brick at CES. This is no standard toy; it is a 2x4 piece packed with a 4.1mm ASIC chip, motion sensors, and a built-in speaker. LEGO calls this the "Smart Play" initiative, aiming to merge physical builds with interactive electronics without using screens.
The "Smart Brick" Internal Specs
The new brick runs a proprietary Play Engine. It features integrated copper coils that allow it to sense distance and orientation compared to other smart components.
- Audio: Unlike previous sound bricks, this speaker generates audio tied to "live actions" rather than looping static clips.
- Connectivity: A new wireless layer called BrickNet (based on Bluetooth) lets bricks "talk" to each other.
- Charging: Multiple bricks can charge simultaneously on a shared wireless pad. LEGO claims the battery life survives "years" of inactivity.
Smart Minifigures and Tags
The system includes Smart Tags (2x2 tiles) and Smart Minifigures. These contain unique digital IDs readable by the Smart Brick via near-field magnetic communication. A Smart Tag tells the brick its context—for example, whether it should behave like a spaceship engine or a roaring animal.
The Star Wars Launch Lineup
LEGO is launching three "All-in-One" sets on March 1, 2026 (Pre-orders open January 9):
- Darth Vader’s TIE Fighter (75421): 473 pieces, 1 Smart Brick, 1 Smart Minifigure – $70.
- Luke’s Red Five X-Wing (75423): 584 pieces, 1 Smart Brick, 2 Smart Minifigures, 5 Tags – $100.
- Throne Room Duel & A-wing (75427): 962 pieces, 2 Smart Bricks, 3 Smart Minifigures – $160.
These sets allow for real-time interaction; an X-wing will "roar" as you tilt it, and Vader’s TIE Fighter will fire laser sounds when a Smart Minifigure is placed inside. This is LEGO's most aggressive push into connected play since the 1978 debut of the minifigure.
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