July 2012 Notable Toys — Electronics

Ravensburger’s Augmented Reality technology makes puzzles come to life. Download the free AR Puzzle app from the App Store that utilizes the camera function of the iPhone or iPad versions 2 and 3 to animate the scene. Experience a totally new visual reality and reveal audio details, sound effects and factual information. Watch these fascinating animals roam through their natural habitat and listen to the sounds of Africa.
— As of 07/23/2012 this product had 4.6 out of 5 stars from 17 reviews on Amazon.com. Pros: Great picture quality; has a nice mix of easy and difficult sections; AR component can help encourage kids to play with a more traditional toy (you have to complete the puzzle before you can unlock the digital components). Cons: One reviewer said the interlocking pieces were looser than is usual for a Ravensburger puzzle; only works with iPhone or iPad.

The Ares™ Ultra-Micro MD 500D CX 100 is perfect for first-time and experienced pilots looking for an ultra-scale and ultra-stable heli they can fly indoors almost anytime and anywhere. The highly-detailed MD 500D scale body is equipped with LED lights and is available in two attractive trim schemes while the included decals allow for quick and easy customization as a News, Rescue, Fire or Police helicopter. The MD 500D CX 100’s coaxial, counter-rotating blade design offers excellent control and unsurpassed stability that will have any first-time pilot hovering like a pro in no time. The ultra-micro size and low weight make it possible to fly indoors in just about any bedroom, living room or office, and best of all the heli is 100% factory-assembled and ready-to-fly right out of the box. Also in the box is everything needed to fly including AA batteries for the 4-channel transmitter equipped with interference-free 2.4GHz technology, an LCD screen, dual rates and digital trims, a 220mAh 1S 3.7V LiPo battery and DC USB charger for charging from almost any computer or 5V USB power source, plus an AC adapter for quick and convenient charging from almost any outlet.
— In a Summer 2012 survey about electronic and battery operated toys, Mark Rosenblum from Hobbytown in Fairfield, Conn., told TDmonthly that he sells 20-30 RC helicopters from E-Flite and Ares each month.

TeenyTrack Nano Kit is Worldwide smallest moving train set that recommended for dedicated enthusiasts, who are striving to build stuff by themselves. Fits the Dole Houses. The kit includes: 1. Fully integrated Unit, does not require any assembly. 2. Set of Silver Nano Express Train (one locomotive and three passenger cars)  3. Power adapter for 110 V - 250 V. Proudly Made in the USA. "The smallest moving Track with the train on it," Ed Lopatinsky, President of IDL Motors, told TDmonthly. Launch date: June 2012.

Virtual Strumming with No Strings Attached. Play the Air Guitar by pressing on the chord buttons & strumming in the air.  Connect to an iPod & play along with favorite songs. Infrared sensor detects your hand motions. Plays all chords in major, minor, sharp, flat & 7th. Play along with 10 preset songs. Built in speaker. Earphone jack for private playing. Connects to an external amplifier. Connect to any music player to play along. Free play mode. Runs on 2 ‘AAA’ batteries (not included).  Size: 8 ¼” x 3 ½” x 1 ½” Weighs: 6 ozs. Launch date: January 2012.

A part of the company’s recently expanded "spy line," this role play toy includes a video camera operated by a remote control that enables kids to view their subjects from 250 feet away.

The Cybercycle is full function RC and powered for sleek-riding slides and maneuvers. Designed with hidden wheels that prevent falling over, this motorcycle has front and back wheels that are independently controlled for the coolest of maneuvers. Drive this cycle real fast up to 25 feet or perform power slides and sleek maneuvers.

Comes with 9 inserts, and up to 6 can be displayed at a time. Rotates on it's own, makes a great nightlight or children's room decor item.

Kids can build and program their own computer. As easy as snapping together the circuits and downloading Elenco’s programs. Kids can write their own programs using Basic commands or flowcharts. Includes over 100 projects and over 50 parts. A great introduction to microcontrollers and how they are used in the world around us. Requires 3 "AA" batteries.
Awards: 2013 TDmonthly Seal of Approval

The BugLit "body" is actually our powerful INOVA Microlight - a tough micro flashlight encased in a durable polycarbonate plastic housing, with four functions (high power, low power, strobe, and signal). This bright white LED has an effective range of up to 50 feet, and one-mile visibility. Next, the securely attached "legs" are two flexible, fully moldable 6" Nite Ize Gear Ties, which can be bent, wrapped, or twisted in many configurations, to sit, stand, store, or shine the flashlight. Wrap the legs around the body for compact storage and transport. And, finally, its lightweight plastic S-Biner clip allows you to attach, hang, or store the BugLit for convenient access on zippers or keys.

With 4-in-1 endless fun, the Vtech Kidizoom Camera - Pink allows children to become an instant photographer and movie director with the press of a button. Kids' creativity will come alive as they learn to take and edit their photos with wacky effects. They can also shoot their own video movies or play 3 cool games right on the camera. With storage of up to 1000 photos, and the ability to connect to a computer, children can easily keep all of their creations so they can be treasured forever.
— As of 4/11/2012 this product had 4.1 out of 5 stars from 8 reviews on ToysRUs.com. Pros: long battery life; lots of fun for kids; durable. Cons: Picture quality isn't great.

The original Boogie Board LCD eWriter that started a revolution. Ultra light (4oz.) and thin (1/8"). One just isn’t enough. Get one for on the go, in the office and multiple places around the house. Almost anywhere you’d keep memo pads, sticky notes or scrap paper.
— Erika Evers, owner of Dancing Bear Toys in Hendersonville, N.C., told TDmonthly in an April 2012 survey that their best selling travel toy is the Boogie Board. They sell 6-7 each month.
— Chris Lowe, owner of Beanhead Toys in Sandy Springs, Ga., told TDmonthly in a late Summer 2012 survey that they sell 15 of this item each month, making it a bestselling novelty item.
— Greg Larson, owner of Larson's Toys and Games in Columbus, Ohio, told TDmonthly in a March 2013 survey that they sell 18 Boogie Boards each month, and up to 48 a month during 4th quarter.

Where to buy:
NORTH WEST