Key Facts
- ✓ Buddyo is a smart base designed to add AI to figurines like Funko Pops using NFC tags.
- ✓ AI toys, companions, and robots were prevalent at CES this year.
- ✓ HeyMates and Buddyo are betting on a resurgence of the collectible figurine boom.
- ✓ The core concept involves placing a figurine on a smart base with a speaker and microphone.
- ✓ An accompanying app powers an LLM chatbot based on the figurine.
Quick Summary
The integration of artificial intelligence into consumer electronics has expanded to the collectibles market, with new devices unveiled at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES). These products aim to transform static figurines into interactive companions using smart technology.
Specifically, companies are introducing smart bases that pair with figurines like Funko Pops. By placing a figurine on a base equipped with a speaker, microphone, and NFC technology, users can engage in conversations with the character through an accompanying app. The app utilizes a Large Language Model (LLM) to simulate the personality and knowledge of the figure, allowing for discussions on specific topics associated with the character.
CES Highlights AI Integration in Collectibles
The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) featured a significant presence of AI toys, companions, and robots this year. Amidst a wide variety of products, including plush toys and light-up devices, specific innovations stood out for their approach to the collectible market.
HeyMates and Buddyo were the two primary examples identified. Both companies are betting on a resurgence of the collectible figurine boom through AI-powered features. The goal is to allow fans to interact directly with sports stars and superheroes from their desks.
The core concept behind these devices is straightforward. Users take a standard figurine and place it onto a specialized smart base. These bases are designed to be compatible with existing popular collectibles.
How the Technology Works
The technology relies on a combination of hardware and software to bring the figurines to life. The physical component is the smart base, which contains the necessary electronics for interaction.
Key hardware components included in the smart bases are:
- A speaker for audio output
- A microphone to capture user voice
- NFC tags to identify the specific figurine
- Visual indicators, such as a flashing ring of light
Once the figurine is identified via NFC, the accompanying app activates a specific LLM chatbot. This AI is programmed to mimic the character's persona. For example, a user could discuss relativity with a figurine of Albert Einstein or converse with the character Darth Vader.
The Future of Interactive Collectibles
The introduction of AI bases suggests a potential shift in the collectibles industry. Rather than serving solely as display items, these products offer an interactive experience that bridges the gap between physical objects and digital assistants.
By leveraging LLM technology, manufacturers hope to add value to standard figurines. This innovation allows for a personalized experience where the user can engage in dialogue with their favorite characters. The industry is watching closely to see if this AI-powered vengeance will indeed spark a new cycle of growth for the collectible market.
