Lego has introduced Smart Play, a new interactive system featuring a tiny Smart Brick that enhances play with existing bricks. The technology, unveiled at CES 2026, will debut in Star Wars sets launching in March. It promises app-free interactions like sound effects triggered by movement.
On January 5, 2026, during the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, Lego revealed Smart Play, a innovative line of interactive pieces designed to work seamlessly with traditional Lego bricks. At the heart of the system is the Smart Brick, a compact component the size of a standard 4x2 Lego brick. This device incorporates advanced technology including light-sensing and sound-sensing sensors, accelerometers, a miniature speaker powered by an onboard synthesizer, and a custom microchip smaller than a typical Lego stud. The Smart Brick charges wirelessly and integrates like any regular brick.
The system enables responsive play without requiring a smartphone, computer, or app, addressing past criticisms of Lego's tech integrations that often felt cumbersome. For instance, attaching a propeller to a dinosaur build triggers helicopter noises from the Smart Brick as it spins. In the upcoming Star Wars sets, the Emperor minifigure will play the Imperial March when placed on his throne, ships will emit laser sounds during battles, and lightsabers will produce humming and whirling effects as figures move.
Smart Play components, such as Smart Tiles and Smart Minifigs, allow the Smart Brick to react to children's actions in real time. Lego emphasized the ease of setup, making it accessible for kids and parents alike. The first three Star Wars sets incorporating this technology are scheduled for release in March 2026, marking a significant evolution in how Lego blends physical building with digital-like interactivity while preserving the brand's core appeal.
