‘Smart Duck’ Hits Shelves
Subscriber Benefit
As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowEdwin the Duck, an interactive learning toy developed by Carmel-based pi lab, is now available for purchase. The so-called "Smart Duck" features motion-based technology and wireless connection to a mobile app, allowing children to interact with Edwin. Co-founder Don Inmon says pi lab worked with illustrators, educators and musicians to develop engaging educational material with "Edwin’s own spin." The company won the Mobile Tech Award at this year’s Mira Awards, hosted by Indiana’s technology growth initiative TechPoint.
Inmon and co-founder Matt MacBeth say they came up with the idea for Edwin when they saw a giant rubber duck that had been floated into a Chinese harbor that they say captivated the population. Inmon says the Edwin capitalizes on the popularity of the iconic rubber duck toy by giving it a name and personality.
The company says Edwin includes educational activities to help children learn in areas including numbers, colors and shapes. It also teaches values through interactive stories and helps children get to sleep. It interacts with a mobile app, where kids can find stories, songs and activities. The company says it is developing separate apps for temperature sensor, additional sleep sounds and color and brightness controls.
Edwin is equipped with a rechargeable lithium ion battery, LED nightlight, thermometer and a wireless waterproof speaker. The toy floats and is able to be recharged by placing him in his "nest."
Edwin retails for $99.99. You can find more information by clicking here.