You want to introduce quality music to your children, but you don't feel safe enough to let them use it with smart speakers? Then meet Toniebox, a speaker dedicated to children, which features interactive dolls and RFID toys. The creation is by the German company Tonies, and its operation is very similar to that of Nintendo's Amiibo doll.
The Toniebox speakers cost US$99 (around R$500) and feature a cube-shaped structure with a fabric finish and a surface that reads the characters. This way, when the child brings one of the miniatures close to the speakers, the Toniebox will interpret the specific signal of that character, playing songs, stories and interactive games.
According to the manufacturer, each doll costs between US$5 and US$15 (R$25 and R$80) and uses RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tag transmission technology, which allows data to be transmitted between devices through a signal emitted by an antenna. This technology has become very popular among the children's market after being used by companies such as Disney and Nintendo to add paid content to games like Smash Bros, through Infinity Amiibos and Skylanders figures, for example.
In addition to RFID, Tonies speakers also allow connection to other devices for MP3 transmission without the need for a “Tonie” (as the dolls are called).
However, the manufacturer's official website does not inform whether they are compatible with other applications, such as Spotify and Apple Music, or if there are certain access restrictions for children.
Bet on interactivity
The company has partnered with other brands to bring well-known characters to the Toniebox universe. Disclosure: Tonies
To maintain a variety in its speaker catalog, Tonies develops a partnership strategy with other brands and major licensors such as Disney, Pixar and DreamWorks.
This way, in addition to the stories with the original characters, on the Tonies website, It is also possible to purchase miniatures from well-known franchises such as Toy Story, Despicable Me, Frozen, etc. Just like Amiibos and Skylanders, Tonies are manufactured in different versions, so children can collect their favorites.
Each miniature comes with an activity book that the child can complete while listening to their speaker. In addition, the company is also preparing an app for Android and iOS. With the app, parents will be able to download updates and new adventures for the speakers.
According to the manufacturer, more than 1 million units have already been sold in the United States and the United Kingdom. Despite this, there is no forecast for the arrival of the Tonies speakers in Brazil.
Street: Engadget