Chinese AI toy companies are expanding their markets internationally. The toy known as BubblePal was introduced in the United States in December 2024 and has since become available in Canada and the UK. Another brand, FoloToy, is now sold in over ten countries, including the US, UK, Canada, Brazil, Germany, and Thailand. Rui Ma, a tech analyst from AlphaWatch.AI, points out that AI devices for children align with established markets for educational electronics in China, which are less prevalent in other countries. FoloToy’s CEO, Kong Miaomiao, noted that their products are reaching early adopters outside China who are interested in AI.
This growth in China’s AI toy market builds on a history of consumer electronics aimed at children. Since the 1990s, companies like BBK have introduced products such as electronic dictionaries and educational machines marketed to parents. These hybrid toy-electronics provide interactive storytelling, read-aloud features, and simulate companionship.
However, competition from US firms is increasing. For instance, musician Grimes has collaborated on a product named Grok, a plush toy that interacts with children, while major toy company Mattel is partnering with OpenAI to integrate conversational AI into their brands, such as Barbie and Hot Wheels, with launches anticipated later this year.
Reviews from parents who have purchased AI toys in China have been mixed. Many appreciate the screen-free design and strict parental controls, yet some report issues with the AI features, which can be inconsistent and lead to children quickly losing interest. Penny Huang from Beijing shared her experience after purchasing a BubblePal for her daughter. She hoped the toy would alleviate her daughter’s loneliness while reducing her habit of requesting to use smartphones. However, Huang remarked that the toy’s responses were often too lengthy, causing her daughter to become impatient.
Source: https://www.technologyreview.com/2025/10/07/1125191/ai-toys-in-china/