LEGO's Smart Bricks: A New Play Era or Imagination Killer?

LEGO has big plans for its new Smart Bricks. The company says these high-tech bricks are here to stay. But not everyone is happy. Some worry that adding technology to LEGO sets might kill the fun of building and imagining. LEGO's Federico Begher, who works on new products, says Smart Bricks are just an extra feature. They won't replace the classic LEGO experience. He compares it to the Minifigure. At first, Minifigures were rare. Now, they're everywhere. Smart Bricks might follow the same path. They'll be used where they make sense, but they won't take over. Smart Bricks are designed to make play more exciting. They can make sounds and react to movement. But they don't need a screen. LEGO says play will stay physical. A parent app will help update the bricks, but the fun will still be hands-on.Some experts worry that Smart Bricks might limit creativity. Josh Golin, from Fairplay, thinks they could ruin what made LEGO great. But LEGO says it's all about adding more play options. Kids can still build and imagine however they want. LEGO has learned from past projects. Their Super Mario figures and Hidden Side sets used screens. But Smart Bricks are different. They're fully physical. LEGO wants them to be a big part of their sets, not just a side feature. The future of Smart Bricks is still a mystery. Begher hints that there's more to come. The first sets are just the beginning. LEGO is careful not to overwhelm kids with too much technology at once.