When people talk about CES, they’re usually talking about the future — not toys. CES (short for the Consumer Electronics Show) is where tech companies go to unveil their next big ideas, from AI-powered gadgets to breakthrough hardware that shapes how we live, work and play. And this year, LEGO made its first-ever appearance at CES, where it introduced something brand new: the LEGO Smart Brick.
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The Smart Brick is part of LEGO's new Smart Play System, a foundational shift in how physical play can merge with technology — all without sacrificing the hands-on creativity the brand is known for. But what exactly is a Smart Brick? Well, at its core, it's still a LEGO Brick — in a standard 2x4 size — but inside, it's packed with sensors and technology that turn builds interactive and allow them to respond to their users in really interesting ways. The Smart Brick detects motion and orientation, reacts to twists and taps, plays sounds and recognizes other Lego pieces that are nearby. That means structures that respond when they’re moved, builds that change behavior depending on how they’re assembled and play experiences that evolve as kids experiment.
The Smart Play System consists of three main components: Smart Bricks, Smart Tags, which are flat LEGO pieces that tell Smart Bricks how to behave (for example, lighting up or making certain sounds) and Smart Minifigures that activate Smart Bricks in their own unique ways, prompting them to play unique sounds and reactions to bring playsets to life.
It's important to note that these don't replace traditional LEGOs or force kids onto a screen. Instead, they work alongside existing bricks and sets, adding a new, interactive layer to physical building. LEGO has emphasized that the Smart Brick is meant to enhance creativity, problem-solving and experimentation — not distract from it. This aligns with LEGO’s long-standing focus on learning through play.
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LEGO is launching the Smart Play System in three Star Wars sets: Darth Vader’s TIE Fighter, a 473-piece set with a smart Darth Vader minifigure, one Smart Brick and one Smart Tag; Luke’s Red Five X-Wing, a 584-piece set with two Smart Minifigures, one Smart Brick and five Smart Tags; and the Throne Room Duel & A-wing, a 962-piece set with three Smart Minifigures, two Smart Bricks and five Smart Tags. All three will be available to preorder beginning Jan. 9, with products officially launching March 1.
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