LEGO is entering a new era of play with “Smart Play,” a groundbreaking platform integrating digital experiences directly into its iconic brick system. Developed in collaboration with Lucasfilm, the initiative utilizes NFC technology and wirelessly charged “Smart Bricks” to bring Star Wars characters and stories to life in an interactive way. This marks LEGOS largest technological advancement since the brick’s invention and signals a meaningful push toward blended physical-digital play experiences, with premium sets expected to hit shelves in March 2026. The system promises ongoing content updates via a dedicated app, aiming to continually expand the play possibilities.
LEGO has unveiled “Smart Play,” a new platform developed in collaboration with Lucasfilm that moves beyond traditional building. The system integrates “Smart Bricks” – electronic components capable of recognizing characters and responding with synchronized lights and sounds during play, according to a report from The Verge.
NFC Technology and Intelligent Minifigure Recognition
The platform leverages NFC chips embedded within LEGO minifigures. A central smart component can identify which character – such as Chewbacca or R2-D2 – is present, immediately triggering original music and dialogue from the films. The system is designed to be continually updated with new content and stories via a dedicated smartphone app, eliminating the need for additional hardware purchases.
Wireless Charging and Immersive Building Experience
Premium sets, slated for release in March 2026, will include concealed wireless charging bases integrated into display platforms, ensuring the Smart Bricks remain powered and ready for use. LEGO aims to bridge the gap between physical and digital play with this move, offering an immersive building experience that engages both children and adults in interactive, cinematic space battles. This integration of technology into a classic toy demonstrates a growing trend toward blended play experiences.
LEGO has been experimenting with connected bricks for several years, but this collaboration with Star Wars represents the first large-scale commercial launch of the technology. Company officials confirmed to Engadget that this is the biggest technological leap in the history of LEGO bricks since their invention.
