Smart Toys

Notes:

Smart toys are connected toys that incorporate sensors, actuators, and other technologies that allow them to interact with the environment and provide additional features and capabilities beyond what is possible with traditional toys. They often use advanced algorithms and machine learning techniques to enable more intelligent and engaging play experiences.

Dialog systems, also known as conversational agents or chatbots, can be used in smart toys to provide a natural language interface for interacting with the toy. For example, a smart toy might include a dialog system that allows the user to control the toy using spoken commands, or to ask the toy questions and receive answers. Dialog systems can also be used in smart toys to provide educational content or other information, or to create more immersive and engaging play experiences. For example, a smart toy might use a dialog system to provide feedback and encouragement to the user during play, or to create a virtual companion that can interact with the user in a more natural and intuitive way.

There are a number of issues related to children’s privacy that have been raised in relation to smart toys. One concern is that smart toys may collect and transmit personal information about children, such as their names, ages, and interests. This information could potentially be used for marketing or other purposes, or could be accessed by unauthorized parties.

Another concern is that smart toys may use voice recognition or other technology to record and store children’s conversations and interactions. This could potentially result in the collection of sensitive information about children and their families, and could also raise concerns about the potential for third parties to access this information.

In addition, there are concerns about the security of smart toys and the potential for hackers to gain access to children’s personal information or to manipulate the toys in harmful ways.

To address these issues, it is important for parents to carefully research and consider the privacy and security features of smart toys before purchasing them for their children. It is also important for parents to monitor their children’s use of smart toys and to have open and age-appropriate conversations with their children about online safety and privacy.

Connected play refers to the use of technology, such as the Internet and mobile devices, to enable children to play and interact with others in a virtual or remote setting. This can include online games, virtual reality experiences, and other types of interactive media that allow children to connect and play with others remotely.

Connected play can offer a number of benefits, such as providing opportunities for children to socialize and interact with others, increasing access to a wider range of educational and entertaining content, and promoting the development of digital literacy skills. However, it is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with connected play, such as the potential for exposure to inappropriate content, cyberbullying, and other online safety concerns. To address these risks, it is important for parents and caregivers to be aware of the types of connected play activities that their children are engaging in and to take steps to ensure their children’s safety and well-being.

Resources:

Wikipedia:

See also:

Internet of Things Meta Guide

[Jul 2019]