Tag Archives: mattel

Barbie x Kodak collab gives instant photo printing a splash of pink

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Although it was never really gone, the Barbie franchise recently got a resurgence of popularity thanks to a fun yet odd live-action film. The toy has changed dramatically over the decades, but what has always stayed the same is its spirit of fun, whimsy, and connecting with loved ones. Oh, and the overabundance of the hot pink color. Just in time for the Barbielicious renaissance, Kodak and Mattel have joined hands to create a special limited edition instant camera and photo printer that embody those qualities, encouraging people of all ages and genders to shoot and share those special moments with big smiles and very pink accessories.

Designers: Kodak x Mattel

Instant cameras in the vein of the iconic Polaroid have very limited uses and printouts, but it’s that scarcity and rarity that have actually endeared these products to people, including the younger generation who may be hearing about the idea for the first time. There’s just something exciting about the thought of pressing a shutter button and instantly printing out a photo that you can share or treasure, knowing that that exact moment and that exact photo will never happen again. There’s a huge market for this retro camera design, and what can be more retro and more fun at the same time than Barbie?

The KODAK Printomatic Barbie Edition pours a splash of pink on the instant camera and scribbles the iconic toy line’s name all over the surface. The instant camera uses ZINK technology to print out those lively colors without the dangers of spilling ink in your bag or even your pocket. The 5MP sensor, while sounding like a bummer, lets you also have a retro-quality photo that you can save on a microSD card for future viewing or, better yet, reprinting.

Yes, it might feel like a bit of a cop-out, but you don’t have to sacrifice versatility just to get that nostalgic photography experience, at least not if you also grab the Barbie-themed KODAK STEP Slim Instant Photo Printer. Connected to a smartphone, you can easily print images on that same 2×3 inch instant photo paper format, from the photos you took using your smartphone, to photos you save from the Kodak Printomatic Barbie Edition camera as well. It’s the best of all worlds, allowing you to experience the instant joy of printing photos while still leaving the option to share that over and over again.

The Kodak x Mattel collab is a fun nod to the iconic Barbie brand and could give fans and collectors alike something to vie for when the products do launch. Unfortunately, availability details have yet to be disclosed, but the windows of opportunity to launch Barbie-themed products, like the HMD Barbie phone, are getting smaller.

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HMD Barbie Phone is Real and Really Pink

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A few months back, HMD Global, which now brands itself as “Human Mobile Devices,” teased the existence of a Barbie-branded flip phone. Since it has Mattel’s name riding it, was surely not some simple marketing ploy or early April Fools, but an actual product that was just biding its time. That time has finally come and the official and functional Barbie Phone is finally here, or at least for some markets. The retro-chic flip phone is unabashedly pink and, well, totally Barbie, and just like the era that it pays homage to, the phone goes back to a time when mobile phones were really just mobile phones. Perfect for a GenZ vacay, or so HMD says.

Designer: HMD x Mattel

Although the recent live-action film put the iconic doll in a very different perspective, generations will always remember Barbie and her friends as fun-loving teens. Of course, the franchise has a rich history with many twists and turns, but the spirit of the product has always revolved around the joy of the moment and spending it with friends. That’s the kind of almost Zen-like message that the HMD Barbie Phone is trying to send, telling the GenZ crowd to give their phones a vacay and enjoy their own vacay the old-fashioned way.

In terms of technology, the Barbie Phone is pretty much just a specially-branded feature phone with a classic clamshell design. It opens up to reveal a small 2.8-inch “QVGA” (that means 320×240 pixels) screen above a conventional T9 keypad. It runs the old Nokia S30+ platform, which means it barely does anything other than make calls, handles text messages, and a few specialized utilities and light games. Even the 0.3-megapixel camera is terribly old-school, and not because HMD is trying to be cheap. Every facet and feature of the Barbie Phone is designed to deliver a retro phone experience for a reason.

In addition to decades-old aesthetics, the HMD Barbie Phone tries to embody the “digital detox” lifestyle that some GenZers are embracing, at least during vacations and breaks. The phone focuses on features that immediately connect friends on a more personal level compared to just tapping hearts and giving likes. You can still take photos, of course, but even that will be in the style of classic, old-school photos where everyone has to squeeze together to fit.

That’s not to say HMD is using it as an excuse to skimp on details. In fact, the HMD Barbie Phone is quite overloaded with knick-knacks and accessories that will make any Barbie fan gush. Two interchangeable colors add some pizzazz to that hot pink motif, while stickers, a beaded lanyard, and charms offer plenty of room for personalization. On the software side, you have a special watermelon-theme Snake game variant, themes and sounds from the franchise, as well as apps that guide you to be Zen in the middle of a summer beach vacation. The HMD Barbie Phone is going for 99 GBP, around $130, but it won’t launch in the US until sometime in October.

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BMW is bringing a dedicated UNO Gaming App to over 500,000 existing car infotainment systems

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With an announcement from BMW dropping shortly after the Concours d’Elegance event at Pebble Beach, you’d probably think we’ve got some interesting car news or some automotive updates, but you’d be wrong. Instead, BMW threw quite the curveball by announcing a dedicated version of the hit card game UNO, designed specifically for in-car gaming. Dubbed the “UNO Car Party!”, this collaboration between BMW, Mattel, and AirConsole rolled out at Gamescom 2024, where it was introduced as the next evolution of in-car entertainment. With over 500,000 BMW and MINI vehicles set to feature this, you can now settle all your family’s backseat rivalries with a virtual card match that no one saw coming.

Designers: BMW & Mattel

The setup is surprisingly slick for a car game. AirConsole’s tech lets up to four players use their phones as controllers—no shuffling required, just a quick QR code scan on the car’s display. Each player’s hand remains secret on their phone while the main screen shows the game’s progress, meaning you can still side-eye your opponents and snoop on their hand. Given how hands-on and intense UNO can be, the game is only playable when the vehicle is in park mode. That’s BMW’s subtle way of saying, “Hey, safety first.” But once the car’s stationary, it’s game on, transforming your car into a temporary game room that’s perfect for killing time while charging your EV or waiting for that friend who’s always late.

In terms of gameplay, it’s pretty much the UNO you know and love (or dread). Same rules, same chance to ruin friendships, but now with digital flair—automated scoring, snazzy graphics, and a setup that doesn’t involve losing cards under the seat. It’s straightforward, easy to get into, and definitely beats staring out the window. The concept is clever in its simplicity, merging retro card game vibes with modern tech. Plus, it’s a nice break from doomscrolling or listening to the same playlist on repeat.

This move from BMW is part of a bigger trend where cars are becoming more than just vehicles—they’re turning into mobile entertainment hubs. And while “UNO Car Party!” might not be a game-changer (pun intended), it’s a fun little feature that adds personality to your car. Sure, it’s no substitute for a full-fledged console, but it’s a step toward making your vehicle a bit more interesting when you’re not actually driving it. Whether it’s a quick match during a pit stop or a way to pass the time while you’re stuck waiting for someone, it’s clear that BMW is leaning into the idea that cars can be places for more than just commuting.

So, if you’ve ever found yourself thinking, “I wish I could play UNO in my car,” your oddly specific wish has just come true. Whether you’re ready to embrace it or just find it amusing, BMW’s latest innovation proves that even the most unexpected ideas can have a place in the future of driving—or at least parking.

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80% of Mattel Games will be made Color-Blind Accessible by the end of 2024

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For generations, classic games like Uno have brought people together for friendly competition. But for the estimated 300 million people worldwide with color blindness, these games haven’t always been accessible. Mattel, the iconic toymaker behind these beloved games, is making a significant stride towards inclusivity. They recently announced that by the end of 2024, 80% of their global games portfolio will be colorblind accessible, with that number rising to 90% by the end of 2025.

Designer: Mattel

This update isn’t a radical overhaul. Instead, it involves subtle design tweaks that ensure gameplay isn’t hindered by color vision deficiency. For instance, Uno will now feature symbols alongside the traditional colors and numbers. A square represents blue, a circle red, a diamond yellow, and a triangle green. This way, players can identify cards based on the symbol without relying solely on color. Similarly, Blokus, a strategic board game, will incorporate patterns on its colored game pieces for better differentiation. These changes extend to other popular Mattel games like Dos, Phase 10, Skip-Bo, and Ker Plunk.

Partnering with ColorADD, a group specializing in colorblind-friendly design solutions, Mattel demonstrates a commitment to thoughtful implementation. This isn’t just about adding symbols; it’s about collaborating with experts to ensure the updates are effective for players with color blindness. The new features go beyond the games themselves. Updated instruction sheets will include dedicated sections for colorblind players, and the packaging will sport a special badge featuring a multicolored eye icon for easy identification.

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Kartell Reimagines Iconic Chairs In Barbie Pink At 2024 Milan Design Week

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The recent collaboration between Kartell, the distinguished Italian furniture brand, and Mattel, the creative force behind Barbie, has resulted in an extraordinary collection of chairs that blurs the boundaries between furniture and art. Unveiled at Milan Design Week 2024, this partnership represents a significant milestone in design history, as it merges Kartell’s Philippe Starck-designed chairs with the timeless charm of Barbie.

Designer: Philippe Starck

Barbie’s enduring influence as a cultural icon cannot be overstated. From her origins as a children’s toy in 1959 to her recent portrayal in a live-action film, Barbie has continually evolved, captivating audiences worldwide and transcending her toy origins to become a symbol of empowerment and aspiration. Last year’s release of the Barbie movie further underscored her cultural significance, reshaping perceptions and highlighting her relevance across different age groups.

In response to Barbie’s multifaceted influence, Kartell and Mattel Creations embarked on an innovative partnership. Reimagining five of Kartell’s iconic chairs through a Barbie-inspired lens, the collection breathes new life into Philippe Starck’s designs, infusing them with Barbie’s signature style and charm.

The chairs, including the ‘Venice’, ‘Louis Ghost’, ‘Masters’, ‘Ero|S|’, and ‘AI’, have been meticulously recreated in both human and doll sizes, symbolizing Barbie’s 65-year legacy of inspiring imagination and creativity. Each chair, bathed in Pantone 219 C – the iconic Barbie Pink hue – is crafted from recycled plastic, highlighting the brand’s commitment to sustainability.

The genesis of this collaboration lies in Barbie’s ability to reinvent herself and resonate with audiences across generations. By transforming Kartell’s chairs into vibrant pink masterpieces, the collection pays homage to Barbie’s legacy of creativity and imagination. Crafted from recycled plastic and incorporating innovative materials such as bamboo, each chair embodies Barbie’s Dreamhouse aesthetic while also prioritizing sustainability—a testament to both brands’ commitment to environmental responsibility.

The debut of this remarkable collection at Milan Design Week captivated attendees, transporting them into a world where toys seamlessly merge with art. Displayed against the backdrop of Condé Nast’s Vogue Closet exhibition, the chairs became more than just functional pieces—they became cultural artifacts, inviting viewers to reconsider the boundaries between fantasy and reality.

In the words of Kartell, this collaboration represents a fusion “where toys become art, and art becomes toys.” By marrying Starck’s timeless designs with Barbie’s enduring allure, the Kartell x Barbie collection not only celebrates nostalgia but also invites us to embrace the power of creativity and imagination—a testament to the transformative potential of collaboration in the world of design.

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Mattel’s Jurassic Park T-Rex Eating Lawyer in Outhouse Playset

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Unveiled at Comic-Con 2022, Mattel has created an official Jurassic Park toy of the t-rex eating lawyer Donald Gennaro as he attempts to hide inside an outhouse. A classic cinema moment for sure. The $80 playset includes a 3.75″ Gennaro action figure, a significantly larger t-rex, along with destructible outhouse with lighting and sound effects, sure to provide hours of lawyer-eating fun.

Between Gennaro getting eaten on the can and Dennis Nedry getting spat on by the dilophosaurus, it was nice seeing those jerks get their just desserts. Sure, you could argue that nobody deserves to be eaten by dinosaurs, but you would be wrong. Those guys did. Plus several other people I know.

Unfortunately for those seriously interested, the playset appears to have already sold out, so expect to pay a pretty penny for one in the resale market. Or just cross your fingers and hope to pick one up at a garage sale in ten years. That’s what I’m doing. Either way, I’ll be saving myself a small fortune.

[via Gizmodo]

Fisher-Price follows Barbie and Matchbox in the Mattel PlayBack recycling program

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Sustainability as a societal goal seems achievable, but it entails more than just knowledge of the principles. It is not enough that people, companies, organizations, and brands learn about the basics because what is more important is that those principles are put into practice. A truly sustainable environment may still be far from reach but little by little, we can start making a difference. Mattel, one of the top toymakers in the world, has launched a special program that aims to reduce waste by allowing consumers to send back toys to the company after kids are done playing with them. The idea is simple: families only need to send their Mattel toys back to the manufacturer.

Designer: Mattel

Mattel has been aiming to make its products 100% recycled or recyclable as a significant goal. Another major target is to use bio-based plastic materials in packaging and products by 2030. Mattel has already allowed some of its major sub-brands to be part of the program and accept old but usable toys. MEGA, Matchbox, and Barbie are already doing their role in the toy takeback initiative.

Returning the toys for recycling isn’t just the objective as there’s also the plan to help extend the life of these toys. 
Mattel wants to recover and reuse the materials taken from old Matter toys for future and new products. This way, the waste materials are great reduced and kept from filling landfills.

Mattel’s SVP Global Head of Sustainability and Social Impact Pamela Gill-Alabaster shared: “The Mattel PlayBack program has been eagerly received by consumers and has provided tremendous learning specific to the durability and disassembly of our products, which will aid in the future design of products made for the circular economy.” She also explained the company has started to discover new technologies in recycling and processing plastic. The future of toy production may include using old materials collected through the PlayBack program, thus helping the planet manage waste and hopefully seeing a circular economy in the toy business.

Mattel PlayBack Program Send Back Toys for Recycling

The Mattel PlayBack program is now open in the United States, United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Canada. It’s been a year since its launch, and more people can participate as Fisher-Price toys are now accepted. Specifically, those non-electronic Fisher-Price toys are included and those under the Imaginext, Little People, and Laugh & Learn product series.

Mattel PlayBack Program Principles

This move means Fisher-Price joins the Barbie, Mega, and Matchbox brands in this ‘green’ effort. The Mattel PlayBack program’s main goal is to repurpose the materials into new forms. Old toys will be transformed into new ones, so there will be no sad Toy Story moments to witness.

If you have a bunch of Fisher-Price toys from Mattel and kids have already stopped playing with them, feel free to join the Mattel PlayBack program. You will receive a free shipping label to print, which you can put on the box you will be sending back to Mattel. The toy manufacturer will then check the condition of the toys, sort them, and separate them by type of material. Not all materials may be used or repurposed, but the company will still use them to convert to energy or downcycle to other plastic products. Mattel is committed to responsibly recycling and processing them, which will greatly help Mother Earth.

Mattel PlayBack Program Send Back Toys Matchbox

Mattel has already established ESG strategies (Environmental, Social, and Governance), and this PlayBack program is just one effort. It will only continue to work on its principles in circular design and product stewardship, and maybe further expand the PlayBack program. A really sustainable future is a great goal not only for Mattel but also for other big manufacturers that primarily produce plastic goods, so we’re hoping more companies will follow suit.

Mattel PlayBack Program Play Recycle Repeat

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The Tesla Cybertruck won’t deliver before 2022, but Hot Wheels has an RC Cybertruck you can buy today!

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Designed at 1:10th scale, Mattel’s Cybertruck replica comes with its own remote control as well as a Cyberquad. As far as I can tell, the windows on the toy pickup truck break much more easily…

Mattel’s 1:10 RC Cybertruck comes with that unmistakably polarizing design, authentic wheels + tire treads, working head and taillights, and a flat-bed that’s big enough to fit its free-rolling Cyberquad. The truck itself is controlled by a pretty neat-looking controller that mimics the shape of the Cybertruck’s own steering wheel, and allows you to operate the truck up to 12 MPH (which may seem paltry at first, but it makes Mattel’s Cybertruck one of the fasted remote-controlled cars on the market).

The RC Cybertruck’s available on Mattel’s website (you don’t need to wait till 2022 for yours)… and at just $100, it’s about the same price as the real Cybertruck’s preorder. You know, the refundable preorder that you can definitely cancel for this delightfully wicked RC truck?

Designer: Mattel (Hot Wheels)

Mattel’s Baby Yoda toy sports a remote control that lets it wiggle its ears and waddle around the house!

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With the Season 2 of The Mandalorian hot on its heels, Mattel and Disney have launched perhaps the greatest toy ever made… a Remote-Controlled Animatronic Baby Yoda that wiggles its ears, struts around like a baby penguin, and reaches out for objects with its adorable baby hands, as if it’s summoning the force!

The Star Wars: The Mandalorian the Child “Real Moves Plush” (I wonder how Yoda would say that name) stands at less than a foot tall, and looks almost like the real deal. The Baby Yoda Plush comes with perfectly tinted translucent skin that’s almost see-through around the ears, and large glossy eyes that can look directly at your soul. The plush comes clad in its khaki robes, along with an optional Mythosaur pendant that you can make it wear (just like the one Din Djarin gifted him at the end of the first season). While the Child possesses its own mystic mind-control powers, it is, in fact, operated by a tracking fob-shaped controller that resembles the one the bounty hunters in the series use to locate their targets. The controller allows you to make Baby Yoda look left and right, up and down, and occasionally wiggle its ears with a level of realism that feels uncanny for a $60 toy. The remote controller also allows the little green alien to waddle around on its two feet, and occasionally reach for objects with its adorably tiny 3-fingered hands!

Season 1 of The Mandalorian saw Disney struggling to develop Baby Yoda merchandise to keep up with the heavy demand once the audience fell in love with the character. It seems like they’re not making that mistake again with the second season, partnering with Mattel to release this plush just a few days short of the Season 2 premiere on Friday. You can grab your own remote-controlled animatronic Yoda at the shopDisney webstore, or even at any of Disney’s parks. Beware though, with its adorably good looks and that $60 price tag, it may just magically disappear off the shelves.

Designer: Mattel