Animatronics is the use of robotics and electronics to make a model or puppet appear to be real or alive - and was originally developed for the film industry. Many blockbuster films rely heavily on animatronics to deliver the exciting experience for audiences that they now expect. The sophistication of miniaturisation and manufacture has enabled the toy industry to produce some remarkably realistic and life-like animatronic pets that would only have been dreamed of a few years ago.
One of the earliest users of animatronics in toys was Omnibot - a charming looking robot that was produced by Tomy. He launched to rave reviews but seems very tame by modern standards. NASA scientists were famously involved in the design of Robosapien - a human-like animatronic robot that could lie flat on the floor and get himself standing again unaided!
The pace of animatronic toy development has increased dramatically in recent years, with brands like FurReal Friends offering all kinds of animatronic pets such as parrots, puppies and kittens. Meccano has also joined in the animatronic action with their hi-tech robot called Spykee, whilst Flair had a big hit in 2010 with Toffee The Pony. Undoubtedly there will be many more developments to come in the exciting world of animatronic toys - and we can't wait to see what the animatronic toy designers come up with next!
The original online book seller now sells virtually every product you can imagine... including toys!
Known as the market leader in gifts, gadgets or anything slightly quirky, unusual or out of the ordinary.
Find "stuff that you don't need... but really really want" on the IWOOT website.
Collectables ranges including figures, stickers and trading cards.
Genuine eco-friendly wooden toys for kids up to 12 years old.
Sells a wide range of jigsaw puzzles and accessories.
