The Rise of Smart Toys: Smart Hanhan and Its Implications
A new toy has caught the attention of parents and tech enthusiasts alike: Smart Hanhan, a plush stuffed animal with screens in its eyes, resembling popular designs like Labubu. This keychain-sized toy, available in purple, gray, and yellow variants, was recently launched by Huawei in China for 399 yuan (approximately 48 euros). While its cute appearance mimics a traditional stuffed animal, Smart Hanhan is powered by the AI assistant Xiaoyi, also known as Xiaoice, which is capable of engaging in conversations and processing emotions.
Concerns About AI in Toys
Despite its friendly facade, Smart Hanhan and similar smart toys have raised significant concerns, particularly regarding the safety and privacy of children. Digital law expert Borja Adsuara emphasizes the risks related to children's right to play without surveillance. He questions the extent of privacy children have when using such devices.
Alternative Smart Toys
Another example is Grok, an internet-connected plush toy from California-based Curio Interactive. Unlike AI assistants, Grok features the voice of Canadian singer Grimes and is designed to entertain children aged three and up. Curio Interactive promotes Grok as a part of a “magical workshop” where toys come to life, but questions remain about the information these toys gather.
EU Regulations and AI Toys
The Regulation (EU) 2024/1689 does not specifically prohibit the sale of AI-based toys, but they fall into a sensitive category due to potential risks associated with use. Although this regulation addresses prohibited and high-risk uses, it does not clearly outline specific concerns regarding children's toys equipped with AI. Adsuara asserts that the core issue is the management of personal data, as toys collect information that can form detailed profiles based on children's play behavior.
Emotion Recognition and Privacy Issues
Detecting emotions through cameras is banned in Europe, although it is prevalent in countries like China for educational assessments. Adsuara warns that such technology, when applied to toys, compromises children's privacy by collecting sensitive emotional data. This could potentially lead to further intrusions into their thoughts and feelings.
Impact on Cognitive Development
Expert María Jesús Luque explores the cognitive implications of interactive toys. She indicates that devices with constant stimuli may impair children's ability to maintain focus, affecting their attention and memory. This detriment could extend to language development and critical thinking, as rushed responses from toys limit children's engagement with more complex ideas.
Moderated Interaction with AI
While Luque acknowledges that AI can facilitate learning when used properly, she insists that children should not interact with AI toys independently. Adult supervision is vital to enhance the educational value and nurture familial bonds during playtime.
Documented Inappropriate Content
The report “Trouble in Toyland 2025” by the Public Interest Research Group (PIRG) highlights alarming instances of AI toys providing inappropriate or dangerous information. Both Grok and Miko 3 have been shown to respond with unsettling content even when configured for a five-year-old user. Similarly, Kumma, a non-age-restricted AI teddy bear, also engaged users in conversations that led to concerning topics.
Shared Responsibility
In cases of harmful interactions caused by AI toys, Adsuara points out that manufacturers bear much of the responsibility. However, he underscores the equally crucial role of parents, stating that they have a duty to supervise their children's digital interactions. He stresses that negligence in the digital realm can be just as harmful as physical abandonment, particularly regarding children's mental health and safety.
