Kids Get Buzzed for Christmas

New Electronics Let Them Plug In and Rock Out

Laser Star by HPI HONG KONG LIMITED
Bring the universe into your home! Laser Stars project thousands of moving stars onto the ceiling and walls. Realistic Blue Nebulae Clouds are realistic and adjustable. They can also be turned off for a brand new effect. An AC adapter is included as well.
— Laser Star was a Top 10 best seller at Figpickels Toy Emporium in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho in Aug. 2010. “We have one on display in a dark room,” said owner Brett Sommer. “It’s like a universe in a room. The blue cosmic nebulae clouds and moving green stars take most people’s breath away. Everyone wants to fall asleep floating in space.” 8/30/2010 (Price: $199.99; Age: 8 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Webmail Notifier by DREAM LINK LTD.
This mail notifier connects to users' private e-mail accounts, when they cannot, to let them know when they have mail. Webmail Notifier works in the background to inform about personal emails and even the capacity of unread emails. It comes equipped with red, green and blue illuminators and an optional sound indicator. 8/26/2010 (Price: $12.00; Age: 14 and up)

Doctor Who Sonic Screwdriver by UNDERGROUND TOYS
The Doctor's handy-dandy sonic screwdriver is the epitome of multifunctional gizmos. Whether it's driving a screw, picking a lock, or disabling an opponent, this amazing implement seems to exhibit the precise capability required by its owner at the time. This sonic screwdriver replica measures 9.25" x 2" x 8.5." This replica features button-activated light and sound effects, and includes a hidden ultraviolet pen and UV light that reveals secret writing. ( Watch Video) 8/20/2010 (Price: $20.99) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

LeapFrog Chat & Count Phone by LEAPFROG
With the LeapFrog Chat & Count Phone, children can sing along to songs about counting and phone routines, explore more than 15 phone activities and call on Scout for learning fun as they trade calls and voicemails. Parents can connect to the online LeapFrog Learning Path for customized learning insights and ideas to expand the learning.
  — As of 8.16.10, this product had 4 out of 5 stars from 9 reviews on ToysRUs.com and was listed No. 33 in best-selling toys and games. PROS: Interactive, educational, engaging. CONS: Some parents felt the product features too few activities. 8/16/2010

Star Wars Yoda Mimobot by mimoco, llc
This USB storage device honors the 30th anniversary of "Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back." It is designed to resemble the film's popular Yoda character. 8/13/2010 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Spy Net Recording Pen by JAKKS PACIFIC INC.
Cleverly loaded with a stealth audio device, this pen can record, save and play back "evidence." The pen includes a USB connection so kids can connect and upload files to a PC. The Spy Pen also links to SpyNetHQ.com to unlock a lie detector so "agents" can upload and analyze their evidence. 8/2/2010 (Price: $19.99; Age: 8 and up)

Monster High iCoffin by MATTEL INC.
With the iCoffin gadget, kids can play games, “text" the Monster High friends, and get dreadfully cool details about all the creepy characters. Use the outside buttons to scroll and play electronic games, then slide out the keypad to type special messages. 7/27/2010 (Age: 6 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Vtech Tote and Go Laptop by VTECH
This colorful laptop with LCD screen comes with 30 engaging activities. A detachable mouse with mouse pad is included.
 —  As of 8.24.10, this product had 5 out of 5 stars from 10 reviews on Target.com and was listed in the top 30 best-selling toys and games. PROS:  Durable and interactive. 7/27/2010 (Price: $26.99; Age: 3 and up)

Snap-Micro I Standard by ELENCO
Beyond the basic motion detector or potato clock, Elenco's Snap-Micro I Standard kit allows children to learn about the theory and application of micro-controllers while building their own complex projects. A variety of components and software included in the kit guide children through the basic commands and flow charts required to assemble and operate the micro-controller, which can then program more than 25 different projects. 
― “Snap Circuits do well,” said Sherry Phipps, owner of School Crossing in Williamsburg, Va., during a summer 2010 survey of top-selling electronic toys.
― Two of 40 retailers told TDmonthly in June 2010 that Snap Circuits are their best-selling electronic item. 7/21/2010 (Price: $119.95; Age: 12 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Bakugan Eight Image Projector Pen by ZOOFY INTERNATIONAL LLC
This Bakugan pen projects eight different Bakugan images. Press the projector button to project the image, and use the wheel to switch between images and the lens to tune the focus. 7/15/2010 (Age: 6 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Digital Spy Camera by WILD PLANET
This digital camera is attached to spy sunglasses. Users can take photos with the secret handheld remote, then download them to a computer. This product is designed to encourage imaginative and abstract thinking skills. ( Watch Video) 6/16/2010 (Price: $219.99; Age: 8 to 12) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Ecotronic Flashlight by INTERNATIONAL PLAYTHINGS LLC
These squeeze-powered, kid-sized flashlights come in a variety of animals whose noses light up when switched on. The side lever stores inside the body and can be released and squeezed to charge up the light. The 12-piece counter displays include four assorted animals in each assortment. The Zoo assortment includes a tiger, panda, monkey, and penguin, whereas the Farm assortment features a cow, pig, duck, and dog. ( Watch Video) 4/16/2010 (Price: $9.99; Age: 6 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

LASER GYRO™ TOP by GEOSPACE INTERNATIONAL
This technically sophisticated top not only features pulsing and flashing LED lights but also laser beams. There’s also an electronic soundtrack to accompany the blurring, mesmerizing performance with the constantly changing light patterns. Launch date: March 10, 2010. ( Watch Video) 3/10/2010 (Price: $5.49; Age: 4 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Earloomz by EARLOOMZ LLC
Earloomz is a lightweight, all-in-one earpiece that combines Bluetooth technology with a bold fashion statements, featuring anything from pop-culture designs to sports teams to cheetah print. Launch date: Spring 2010. 3/4/2010 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

SkitterBot by DESK PETS
The fast-moving SkitterBot is charged by a USB remote contoller. Individuals can battle or race the bots as each color has its own frequency. SkitterBot is available in four colors: Clear Diamond, Clear Emerald Green, Clear Ruby Red and Clear Sapphire Blue. "Our items can be charged by our unique USB remote control and SkitterBot travels at a speed of 12" per second," David Piltz, Managing Director, Desk Pets, told TDmonthly. Schylling is the distributor to specialty stores in the United States. Launch date: June 2010. Watch Video 2/23/2010 (Price: $19.99; Age: 8 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Kid-Tough Music Player by FISHER-PRICE INC.
FISHER-PRICE’s Kid-Tough Music Player is, as its name suggests, a mp3 player designed to be kid-friendly and kid-tough. Able to survive drops, the player features large buttons, simple controls, and easy-to-use software. Available in pink or blue, the Kid-Tough Music Player can hold more than four hours of music and works with most digital music file types. Launch date: July 2010. 2/16/2010 (Price: $49.99; Age: 3 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Alphie Learning Pal by HASBRO INC.
More than 30 years after his original introduction, Alphie robot is making a comeback. The educational robot has been updated with an LCD screen face and childlike voice to give Alphie more personality. With 350 questions and challenges included on 30 cards, Alphie teaches children counting, matching, rhyming and more. Launch date: Fall 2010. 2/15/2010 (Price: $39.99; Age: 3 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

PowerGenix NiZn AA Rechargeable Batteries – 8 Pack by PowerGenix
These AA rechargeable batteries utilize a nickel-zinc, water-based electrolyte system to create a high performance battery (30% higher voltage than NiMH) for high-drain applications. Can be charged hundreds of times. Environmentally friendly and 100% recyclable. ( Watch Video) 2/10/2010 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Kidz Gear Wireless Headphones For Kids by KIDZ GEAR
These IR wireless headphones are designed specifically for children with guaranteed 100-percent compatibility in all U.S. cars having built-in DVD/video systems, the unique features like automatic power off when not in use, independent volume control on the ear-cup and a comfortable design. "[The] unique design specifically focused on children's comfort, safety and fit make the Kidz Gear Wireless Car Headphones ideal for travel in the car or even at home (use the separately sold IR68KGTR wireless transmitter)," Jack Peterson, VP Sales and Marketing, Kidz Gear, toldTDmonthly. Launch date: Dec. 15, 2010. 12/16/2009 (Price: $34.99; Age: All Ages) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Versus Scoreboard by CSE GAMES
The Versus Scoreboard is a fully digital scoreboard and time-keeping device with a powerful audio system. Special sound effects are designed to bring the feel of the stadium home. Featuring state-of-the-art MP3 playback, this sleek and highly-portable device functions as a classic boom box. Awards: 2009 Design Exchange Award for Engineering. Launch date: July 2009. 12/16/2009 (Price: $229.99; Age: 8 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Disney Mix Lights – Digital Audio Player by DISNEY
This MP3 player, available in several styles, lights up to beat of the music. Kids can download their favorite songs and auto-synch them with Mix Central software and online Mix Central download store, where they can also buy TV shows and music videos. The player has a 2GB memory to hold 1,000 songs, supports by MP3 and SD cards, and includes a rechargeable battery, software, a lanyard, ear buds, a USB cable and a guide. It comes with a one-year warranty. Launch date: Summer 2009. 11/23/2009 (Price: $39.99)

HEXBUG Nano Micro Robotic Creatures by INNOVATION FIRST LABS, INC.
This small, 12-legged microrobotic creature is battery powered and designed to behave just like a real bug. It moves very quickly and can even flip over by itself. Five colors are available in the Newton Gravity Series. Awards: Parent's Choice Award 2010. Launch date: Fall 2009. See article: Innovation First Sues Urban Trend Over HEXBUG Nano Knock-off
— Pufferbellies toy store in Staunton, Va., "tweeted" the Hexbug Nano as No. 1 of its top-5 sellers during the first two weeks of December 2009.
― “Hexbugs are doing very well,” said Jenny Bramhall, owner of Dandelion Toys in Fort Collins, Colo., in summer 2010. Fifteen percent of 40 retailers polled in June 2010 said Hexbugs are their best-selling electronic item.
— Hexbugs were great sellers at Figpickels Toy Emporium in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho in Aug. 2010. “They fill the affordable techno/RC need - grab and go,” said owner Brett Sommer.
AWARDS: 2010 TDmonthly Top Seller ( Watch Video) 11/9/2009 (Price: $9.99) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

KODAK Zi8 Pocket Video Camera by KODAK
This pocket-sized video camera captures 1080p HD video footage with integrated image stabilization. It has a built-in USB arm and an external microphone jack. The Zi8 comes in black, raspberry and light blue. 10/29/2009 (Price: $179.95) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

iPod Touch - 64 GB by APPLE INC.
With the iPod Touch, users can listen to music, watch videos, play games, surf the Web and more. This slim pocket computer has a 3.5" screen and uses electrical fields to sense and respond to touch on the surface of the screen. 10/28/2009 (Price: $399.00) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Headphonies Series 2: B- Star Girl by MOBI TECHNOLOGIES INC.
This 3" designer mini speaker has a lot of attitude. Featuring artwork by Jeremiah Ketner, it hosts a built-in hi-fi amplifier, internal rechargeable battery and can play for four to eight hours. It comes with an audio cable, a USB charging cable and a keyring clip for attachment to bags or other accessories. Headphonies can work with MP3 players, portable DVD players, computers and most mobile devices. Launch date: August 2009. 8/20/2009 (Price: $30.00) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

The Silver Ion HEPA Air Purifier for Flu Virus by ALEN CORP.
This Silver Ion HEPA Air Filter is designed for homes with kids seeking to reduce airborne viruses that cause the flu. The HEPA air filter is coated with silver, an eco-friendly and non-toxic substance naturally occurring in nature that provides anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-viral protection. The Silver Ion HEPA filter is more affordable than other air sterilization methods and is designed to be extremely efficient when compared to ultraviolet technology alone. The Silver Ion HEPA filter reduces up to 50 percent of airborne viruses that cause the flu after 24 hours of use, and eliminates 99 percent of airborne allergens, 98 percent of bacteria, and up to 50 percent of the viruses that cause influenza. It's "perfect for a child's room or common high-traffic areas in the home," Akiko Tanaka, PR coordinator for Alen Corp., told TDmonthly. Launch date: September 15, 2009. 8/19/2009 (Price: $149; Age: All Ages) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Venom Snake Eye Micro DV Cam by VENOM GROUP INTERNATIONAL
At only 2.2" tall and weighing 1.4 oz., this little video camera uses AVI video format and records 25 frames per second for 640x480 video output. It captures 2,000K pixels high-res images and has a built-in LiPO battery that lasts for two hours before recharging. The camera comes with a 2 GB Micro SD card, a silicone case, a helmet and handlebar mount, a snap-on clip, an armband, a headband, three Velcro straps, a carrying pouch, an AC adaptor, a USB cable and a software CD.
— At the 2009 ASTRA trade show, John MacDougall of Golden Apple Learning Store in Pleasanton, Calif., was contemplating letting children wear these mini cams on their heads while shopping, to track their paths through his store for a fun and informative video, he told TDmonthly.
THIS PRODUCT IS NO LONGER AVAILABLE. ( Watch Video) 6/30/2009 (Price: $129.99) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

theCRICKETtoy™ by KARDANDAK ENTERPRISES LLC
Whenever there is an awkward pause, individuals can push the button on the key chain-sized theCRICKETtoy™ to hear "Chirp. Chirp." (crickets chirping). "There really is no other item out there like this designed for those awkward moments. It's a great conversation piece and it gets people asking, "Hey, where did you get that?" That's GREAT marketing and branding with multiple impressions throughout the week!" Jeff Anderson, owner of Kardandak Enterprises LLC, told TDmonthly. Launch date: November 5, 2008. ( Watch Video) 6/11/2009 (Price: $5.00; Age: 13 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Animal Yakkers by TECHNO SOURCE
Animal Yakkers™ are electronic toys that make kids feel as if they're on a farm, as they emit hilarious sounds of their favorite animals. Give them a shake and hear the wackiest animals on the funny farm start YAKKIN away. The faster you shake them, the funnier they sound. Yakkers come in three popular farm animals: cow, pig, and lamb. 3/11/2009 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

MotionPlus by NINTENDO OF AMERICA INC.
Just as the Nintendo Wii redefined game control, the upcoming Wii MotionPlus accessory will push it even further. The accessory attaches to the end of the Wii Remote and tracks players' arm position and orientation. Every slight movement made with the wrist or arm is rendered identically in real time on the screen. 2/27/2009 (Age: All Ages) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

My Time Timer by MY TIME TIMER LLC
Designed for children who are accustomed to saying, "Five more minutes, please," or interpret "right now" to mean at the commercial break, The My Time Activities Timer helps children complete tasks in a timely manner, self-monitor their leisure activities, and take more responsibility to manage their time. Features include Main Activity icon buttons (TV Time, Video Game Time, Computer Time) and a customizable interchangeable button (far right button on timer). The timer is easy to set up and use, and comes with instructions for pre-programming. "This product is ideal for children who need that extra help to limit their exposure to too much TV, video games and computer time, but also encourages [them] to spend more time reading, practicing music [and] doing physical activities," Veronique Bella, owner of My TIme Timer LLC, told TDmonthly. The timer requires 2 AAA batteries. It received a 2008 Seal of Approval from The National Parenting Center. Launch date: 2008. 12/12/2008 (Price: $24.95; Age: 4 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Point 'n View by BARSKA
BARSKA’s Point ’n View is a state-of-the-art integration of a high-quality 8 x 22 roof prism binocular and .3MP digital camera that is equally at home on a nature outing, sporting event or vacation. Instead of packing a separate binocular and digital camera, Point ‘n View gives you the convenience of both in one compact device. The Point ‘n View is packed with features that allow one to see, save, and share special moments with friends and family. Simply look through the binoculars and record the scene with the digital camera; then, download it to your PC and print it or e-mail it to friends. It includes a carrying case, instructions, software and cables. Launch date: 2008. 12/12/2008 (Price: $49.99; Age: 12 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Memory Master CD Recorder by CROSLEY RADIO CORPORATION
With Crosley’s Memory Master turntable and CD recorder combo system, simply put on an LP or pop in a cassette, load a blank CD and press “record.” For computer savvy collectors, the Memory Master is USB-enabled for connection to Windows-equipped Macs™ and PCs, and includes a software suite for ripping and editing audio content. The Memory Master also allows one to spin records, play cassettes and CDs, or tune in to a favorite swing or big-band station on the analog AM/FM tuner, using the full-function remote control for hours of nostalgic enjoyment. "Reintroductions of original vintage radios and turntables feature the newest technologies graced by unforgettable Crosley stylings," Director of Marketing Elizabeth Braun of Crosley Radio told TDmonthly. Launch date: August 2008. 8/25/2008 (Price: $449.95; Age: 12 to Adult) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Zillionz Deluxe ATM Machine by SUMMIT PRODUCTS
The Zillionz Deluxe ATM Machine works just like a real ATM and gives kids all of their up-to-date account information. It features incredible sounds and a large screen, and even knows their name. Plus, it can only be accessed with a secret PIN that they choose. The electronic bill feeder and coin recognition works with real money. Kids can insert the ATM credit card to get the exact balance. Launch date: 2007. ( Watch Video) 8/21/2008 (Price: $49.99; Age: 8 to Adult) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Barbie™ B-Inspired™ Learning Game by OREGON SCIENTIFIC
B-Inspired has Barbie leading the way through a journey of career discovery in this unique role playing game. Explore a variety of careers through games and activities. Careers include: President, rock star, teacher, ice skater, chef, doctor, animal rescuer, and horse trainer. 6/20/2008 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Stunt Wingz Commander by EXCALIBUR ELECTRONICS
The remote-controlled plane comes with three frequencies and can fly and bank left and right. The durable and lightweight plane charges on the controller in 30 minutes for 15 minutes of flight. “No other remote-controlled airplane has this unique, motion-sensitive foam core design that, when in flight, banks left and right as you tilt the controller left and right,” Excalibur Electronics Senior Product Manager Meg Sahdala told TDmonthly. Launch date: May 2008. 4/28/2008 (Price: $59.99; Age: 10 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Bluetooth Glasses by MUNOZ GLOBAL COMPANY
The bluetooth glasses protect eyes from harmful sun rays and enables the user to speak on the phone handsfree.  Launch date: February 2008. ( Watch Video) 4/11/2008 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

GoLive2 Stix by PLAYHUT INC.
Use this wireless, motion-sensor controller for PCs works in place of a keyboard and mouse, allowing users to play Internet and PC games in a more natural way. Launch date: February 2008. ( Watch Video) 4/11/2008 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Pet's Eye View Camera by UNCLE MILTON INDUSTRIES INC.
The small and lightweight digital camera attaches easily to pet collars, recording the world from the eyes of one’s pet.  The camera contains a USB cord and a self timer that can be set to snap photos at one, five or fifteen-minute intervals. 3/18/2008 (Price: $49.99; Age: 6 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

ME2 by iTOYS INC.
This full-color, electronic handheld game doubles as a pedometer, and each step a child takes grants him one point for game play in the three-dimensional ME2 world online. Kids create their own avatar (more than 1 million designs available through combinations of various features) and can interact with other players online, where they might, for example, challenge others to a race. Six colors are available. Launch date: August 2008. 2/27/2008 (Price: $34.99; Age: 8 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Ducati Desmosedici by SILVERLIT TOYS
This 1:12-scale motorcycle with rider is designed with auto-stable technology in order to stay upright and lean into turns, simulating realistic driving action. It features spring suspension, digital proportional steering and speed control, a throttle-rate selector and a steering-trim-system. It operates on a 4.8V Ni-MH rechargeable battery and 27 MHz FM modulation radio control. 2/19/2008 (Age: 8 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

360 Degree World Atlas by 360° GIZMOS
The world's first interactive 360 Degree World Atlas will allow children to wander through penguin rookeries in Antarctica and stand in awe of the giant Moai statues on Easter Island. More than 1,000 Virtual Tours of the world's most incredible destinations are featured on this educational DVD software. Combining maps and Virtual Reality, viewers can travel around the world in just a few clicks of their computer mouse. 360 Degree Photographer Everen T. Brown traveled more than 1 million miles to create this unique piece of interactive software that lets children become world explorers, creating their own passport and even going on a Global Scavenger Hunt, finding answers hidden in the images. ( Watch Video) 1/17/2008 (Price: $89.95; Age: 8 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

The Submissive Jesus Prayer Answering Talking Head by PIRROMOUNT PRODUCTS
The 8” talking head will say one of 100 random replies when the crown of thorns on his head is twisted. Launch date: March 2007.
— “There is absolutely nothing else like this currently on the market,” Mark Pirro, creator of the Submissive Jesus at Pirromount Products, told TDmonthly. 1/2/2008 (Price: $29.95; Age: 12 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

R2-D2 WebCam with Light Saber Remote and USB phone by NIKKO AMERICA INC.
The R2-D2 Wireless Webcam with VoIP has an integrated webcam and is fully motorized and wireless so he can be remote controlled. The lightsaber can be used as a remote for R2-D2 or as a VoIP (with Skype software) USB Phone. R2-D2 has his own Skype account. With the special bundled computer program it's possible to connect with R2-D2 from a second computer anywhere. The programs' interface lets users move R2-D2 around and save photos or movies (video only, no audio). Launch date: January 2008.
— “The web camera with USB phone [has] unlimited Star Wars play value!” Nikko America Inc. National Sales Manager Marsha Cannonie told TDmonthly. ( Watch Video) 1/2/2008 (Price: $399.00; Age: 10 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Barbie™ Petal Sound System™ by EMERSON RADIO CORP.
The sound system features signature Barbie pink styling with sculpted designs and unique play features. The iPod-compatible system includes a gemstone “fun” button that reveals a special surprise feature. Launch date: 2007. 12/5/2007 (Price: $79.99; Age: 4 to 7) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

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