Los Angeles-based toymaker Skyrocket is set to launch an innovative AI-powered toy, Poe the AI Story Bear, in August. Poe is the first talking stuffed toy that utilizes artificial intelligence software to generate and read aloud stories to children. Developed as part of Skyrocket’s PLAi brand, Poe represents the latest addition to the growing trend of AI-powered toys. With a multiyear partnership with ElevenLabs, an AI speech software company, Skyrocket aims to provide an immersive storytelling experience for children.
Poe’s storytelling capabilities rely on a kid-friendly app that allows children to choose the characters, objects, and settings for their stories. The app, powered by Microsoft Azure and ChatGPT 4o from OpenAI, generates unique stories on demand. Notably, no two stories told by Poe are alike, ensuring a fresh and engaging experience for children. The bear itself, powered by four AA batteries, can also store and play back favorite stories without the need for the app.
To ensure child-appropriate content, Skyrocket has implemented various safeguards and filters. The company has a team dedicated to adjusting the story creation prompts, actively listening to parent feedback, and blocking potentially controversial or scary themes. Additionally, the final app version is expected to offer parental controls, allowing customization based on age groups and preferences.
While the AI-generated stories have shown promise, some aspects require further refinement. The vocabulary and complexity of the stories occasionally feel out of place for children’s literature, potentially hindering comprehension. However, Skyrocket assures that the final programming will address these concerns, aiming for a better fit for younger audiences.
Poe’s launch marks a significant milestone in the integration of AI technology into toys. The emergence of AI-powered companions has been a topic of discussion within the toy industry, with companies like VTech and Apple exploring similar concepts. The affordability and accessibility of Poe, priced at $50, make it an attractive option for parents seeking to engage their children in imaginative storytelling.
Drawing comparisons to the iconic Teddy Ruxpin from the 1980s, Poe represents a modernized version of the beloved animatronic bear. While Teddy Ruxpin relied on physical books and cassette tapes, Poe leverages AI technology to generate stories. Although Poe may not replace the cherished tradition of parents reading to their children, it offers a creative tool that can spark interesting family conversations and potentially inspire children to create their own stories.
