LEGO unveils SMART Play, its biggest revolution in nearly 50 years

The LEGO Group has just taken one of the most ambitious steps in its history. During CES 2026, the Danish company officially unveiled SMART Play, a new play platform it defines as its biggest innovation since the arrival of the minifigure in 1978.

The goal of SMART Play is clear, to bring physical builds to life without relying on screens. All of this is achieved while preserving the essence of the LEGO system. Most importantly for long-time fans, it maintains compatibility with existing pieces.

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The heart of the system: SMART Brick

The key innovation is the SMART Brick, a completely new piece. It is slightly smaller than a traditional stud and integrates a custom-designed chip. Inside, it brings together more than 20 patents that are new to the toy industry.

Its features include motion sensors, accelerometers, a sound sensor and a synthesiser with a built-in speaker. Thanks to this, the brick can react directly to what happens during play.

When combined with SMART Tags and SMART Minifigures, the system responds in real time. Movements, tilts or physical interactions trigger specific sounds and behaviours. To power this technology, LEGO has also developed a new wireless charger that comes with the sets.

Full compatibility with the LEGO ecosystem

One of the most notable aspects of SMART Play is its integration with the brand’s current catalogue. The new smart pieces can be combined with classic bricks. This makes it possible to expand existing builds without starting from scratch.

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A galaxy far, far away

To launch this new chapter, LEGO once again turns to one of its most iconic universes, Star Wars. The first wave of SMART Play sets will arrive in March with three releases inspired by the galactic saga:

Luke’s Red Five X-Wing (584 pieces)
Darth Vader’s TIE Fighter (473 pieces)
Throne Room Duel & A-Wing (962 pieces)

Each set will include a SMART Brick charger. In addition, it will feature at least one SMART Minifigure and one SMART Tag.

Dates and prices

Pre-orders will open on 9 January, while the global launch is scheduled for 1 March. In terms of pricing, Darth Vader’s TIE Fighter will cost USD 69.99, Luke’s Red Five X-Wing will be priced at USD 99.99, and Throne Room Duel & A-Wing will reach USD 159.99, with variations depending on the market.

With SMART Play, LEGO does not just introduce technology into its bricks. It also redefines how physical play is understood in 2026, betting on an interactive experience that continues to take place, above all, in the real world.