DashRobotics
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Mattel's 'Jurassic World' dino-bots are surprisingly realistic
Mattel's last Kamigami STEM robot was an adorable DIY lady bug. Now, the toy company is aiming for something bigger with its new Jurassic World bots. You'll still have to put them together first, but what you end up with is a complex robo-dino with realistic movement. And, just like before, they'll also help kids bone up on their STEM chops.
The best toys and coding kits for kids
This is the first year that Engadget has included a toy section in its holiday gift guide, and it's already one of the biggest (and in our opinion, best) sections. Here you'll find both coding kits from Lego and others intended to teach little one basic programming skills, as well as toys that just happen to be electronic in nature. And yes, the re-released Tamagotchi pets made the list -- you know, for the nostalgic millennial on your list.
Kamigami is a cute robot bug you build yourself
There are plenty of products out there that teach STEM skills, from robots you can code to kits for building musical instruments or games. But the "fun" is often short-lived. Most of the activity is rooted in the building process, and the final product is often too basic or simplified to be very interesting. By contrast, Dash Robotics and Mattel's new Kamigami robotic kits are very much focused on what kids do after they finish putting them together. They still get a sense of accomplishment and might pick up a few STEM skills in the process, but in the end it's really about having your very own cute bug bot to race, battle and customize.
Dash Robotics's DIY robots controlled by smartphones, look like insects (video)
What could kids find more fun (and parents find more affordable) than fancy toy robots? Toy robots they build themselves that scurry around like horrifyingly gigantic insects. That's what a startup called Dash Robotics hopes to offer if it reaches its $64,000 goal on new crowdfunding site, Dragon Innovation. Each Dash kit contains a flat panel made out of a plastic-and-cardboard material with precut parts you'll have to piece together like Legos. Those parts will enclose an electronic component that lets you control the six-legged robot with either an iOS or an Android app, although the company can't guarantee the latter. Prototypes will be available to the first 1,000 backers who pledge at least $65, but everyone else might be able to get their own later -- Dash Robotics hopes to release its kits commercially and to keep them priced below $70.
