'Smart Doll' is a line of international 60-centimeter vinyl fashion dolls created by Danny Choo of Culture Japan. Unlike collectible fashion dolls for adults that are only meant to be admired from afar, these dolls are more than just decor pieces to fill one's home. The dolls are designed to play well with technology; for instance, the dolls include built-in phone-charging USB ports, and they may also be used as a GPS device, for teaching the Japanese language or to provide a social media user with Twitter and Facebook notifications.
The high-tech articulated fashion dolls recently made an appearance at 2016 Penang Fashion Week, featuring many diverse models and outfits inspired by cultures around the world.
Since these high-fashion dolls could be used as part of one's day-to-day life, they are sold alongside a line of streetwear-inspired Smart Doll Apparel, which is "designed to be taken outdoors."
Smart Fashion Dolls
Danny Choo's 'Smart Doll' Introduces Tech to the Classic Fashion Doll
Trend Themes
1. Tech-enhanced Fashion Dolls - Opportunity for companies to create fashion dolls that integrate technology, such as built-in charging ports and GPS functionality.
2. Functional Collectible Toys - Potential for toy manufacturers to develop collectible toys that serve a dual purpose, offering utility and play value.
3. Smart Doll Fashion - Emerging market for streetwear-inspired apparel designed specifically for high-tech fashion dolls.
Industry Implications
1. Toy Manufacturing - Disruptive innovation opportunities for toy companies to create tech-enhanced dolls that provide additional functionality and interactive features.
2. Fashion and Apparel - Scope for fashion brands to introduce a new line of clothing and accessories targeted at smart fashion dolls, tapping into a niche market.
3. Technology and Gadgets - Potential for tech companies to collaborate with doll manufacturers to integrate cutting-edge technology, transforming fashion dolls into interactive devices.