This augmented reality LEGO set is even cooler than it looks
Earlier this year, Lego launched Vidiyo, a new series for ages 7-9 that combines building with augmented reality (AR). Kids put together relatively simple playsets using unique mini-figures, like a llama, who then take the lead in an AR music video experience. Kids lead – or co-star in the video – using your smartphone. There are a few playsets in the Vidiyo series, ranging from $ 20 to $ 100, but the eight BeatBox sets are the easiest and cheapest way to try out the experience.
Each BeatBox set contains a colorful and fun mini figure with a dozen decorative tiles called BeatBits, which work with a constantly updated playlist of songs from Universal Music Group – think Katy Perry, The Weeknd, Taylor Swift and Imagine Dragons. These tiles, along with the free Vidiyo iOS and Android app, give Legos a plethora of creative and fun effects.
Once you’ve built this llama and colorful scene, the accompanying tiles turn this base playset into an augmented reality experience using a smartphone.
Think of BeatBox sets as two parts: the minifigure and the stage it sits on. Once built, everything is packaged in a transparent display case that makes it easy to transport. Unfold the stage to show its two panels, one on each side of the mini-figure. These panels display the BeatBit tiles. Although they look like a simple decoration, the tiles give you video editing effects, from inserting simple sounds to performing dance moves by your mini-figure, in the app. The dozen or so tiles that come with each BeatBox are among more than 130 options available.
Place the mini-figure on his stage, then launch the app. Your smartphone camera uses the app to recognize the mini figure and BeatBit tiles you have on stage. Then the AR experience begins. You’ll choose a group name, take a photo that can serve as a scrapbook cover, and polish the look with fonts and filters. Place the mini-figure somewhere, for example on the kitchen counter or on the floor in your child’s bedroom. You can change the scale to make the mini figure just a little bigger than it actually is or as big as the room. Now start the show by choosing the music.
If your child wants to perform, they can grab the phone and move around the room to shoot a video while the mini figure dances around your house. But humans can jump right into the action and be part of the video as well.
The BeatBits you scanned previously act as an effects menu while shooting. Depending on the tiles you have available, you can add sounds, such as an air horn, props, mini-figure dance moves, or visual filters. When you’re done, you can upload and share clips up to 20 seconds long on the Vidiyo app. Parental controls mean you can monitor what is posted and what is being kept away from traditional social platforms.
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