You know what they say – everything old is new again. This idiom couldn’t be more true with the resurgence of collectible figurines, but with an interesting updated twist. We’re seeing figurines like Funko Pops and similar collectibles return with a vengeance… and a dose of Artificial Intelligence, thanks to innovative gadgets like the Buddyo smart base.
Artificial Intelligence has permeated almost every aspect of life. From our smartphones to our cars and even our refrigerators – AI has a stronghold on modern technology, and it’s not going anywhere. At this year’s Consumer Electronics Show (CES), AI took center stage with a wide array of toys, companions and robots. But among the sea of plushies and electronic gizmos, a couple of innovative designs stood out – HeyMates and Buddyo.
So, what’s the big deal? These designs might just be crossing the bridge between nostalgia and modernity, in the most delightful way. The idea is fairly simple yet incredibly engaging: take a beloved figurine, situating it on a smart base complete with a speaker, microphone, and perhaps a few gleaming lights. Powered by an app, a basic Language Learning Model (LLM) chatbot is then activated, bringing your character to life.
Imagine having a conversation about relativity with a miniature, chattier version of Albert Einstein, or sharing a laugh with a wisecracking Darth Vader figurine on your work desk. It’s all possible with the technology behind Buddyo and HeyMates.
The magic happens with the help of Near Field Communication (NFC) tags, essentially enabling the figurines to “talk”. Suddenly, the collectible on your shelf is not just a toy, it’s a companion that you can interact with.
This could mark a significant shift in the world of collectibles. It’s not just about owning a cool piece of memorabilia anymore. Now, it’s about creating a connection, sparking a conversation, and adding a whole new level of fun and engagement to our beloved figurines. Gone are the days when our collectibles just sat on the shelf, collecting dust. Now, they can share a joke, discuss the weather, or even challenge you to a trivia night.
Despite their relatively simplistic concept, HeyMates and Buddyo are betting big on this new trend. Perhaps, their bets will pay off soon. After all, who wouldn’t want their inanimate object to suddenly spring to life as a playful compadre? As we continue to embrace the age of smart devices, it’s fascinating to see this technology shape our connection to everyday objects – even collectible figurines.
For the enthusiasts out there, or anyone who’s intrigued by this delightful fusion of pastimes and futuristic tech, these AI-powered collectibles might just be the game-changer we’ve all been waiting for.
As always, the world of tech continues to surprise us, blurring the lines between imagination and reality. The future is here, and it is not just bright; it’s downright engaging. One thing is for sure: our beloved collectibles will never just be “collectibles” anymore.
To read more about how companies like HeyMates and Buddyo are reinventing figurines with AI, check out the full story at The Verge..
