WowWee’s Brand Management VP, Sydney Wiseman, recently appeared on ‘Fox & Friends First’ to discuss the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into teddy bears, signaling a new era in the kids’ toy industry. Imagine a scenario where your child’s teddy bear not only reads them a bedtime story but also tailors it to their individual preferences, likes, dislikes, and even their deepest secrets. This futuristic concept surpasses the creepiness of previous AI toys such as Teddy Ruxpin and Furbys from the past.
The upcoming holiday season is expected to bring a wave of AI-powered toys, particularly those powered by AI ChatGPT technology. However, it’s important to note that these toys are not just about fun and games. There are concerns surrounding privacy and security when it comes to these interactive toys with recording capabilities. Similar to adult smart devices, the data collected by these toys is often stored and shared with third-party buyers, raising valid privacy concerns.
VTech CEO and toymaker Allan Wong is betting on the future of AI teddy bears, where the toy learns and evolves based on the child’s interactions. These teddy bears will engage in conversations with children, responding in complete sentences and becoming more “intelligent” over time. They have the potential to calm a child during a tantrum, entertain them, and even teach them valuable lessons. However, it’s important to be aware that these toys may also collect sensitive data about parents, including school and home locations.
In the past, toys like Hello Barbie sparked privacy concerns due to their Wi-Fi capabilities, recording conversations, and collecting personal data. Mattel, the maker of Hello Barbie, was sued for privacy violations and made changes to comply with regulations. The invasion of privacy and potential use of recorded data for marketing purposes highlighted the importance of protecting children’s privacy.
While avoiding AI toys altogether may be impractical in today’s world, there are steps parents can take to ensure their family’s safety. Disabling cameras and chat functionalities, enabling parental controls, and reading privacy policies are essential. Additionally, having the ability to reset the toy to erase its capabilities and memory is crucial, especially if the child stops using it.
In conclusion, the integration of AI into children’s toys is becoming more prevalent, and it’s essential for parents to prioritize privacy and security. Despite the convenience and advancements these toys offer, parents should consider alternatives and engage their children in activities beyond AI-powered toys. By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, parents can ensure a safe and enjoyable playtime experience for their children.
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
