In Japan, toys are no longer just about fun—they’re becoming companions, educators, and even personal memory keepers. At the Tokyo Toy Show 2025, one trend stood out above all others: AI-powered robots. These innovative gadgets, equipped with generative AI, are redefining what it means to play and interact with technology.
From Toys to Companions: The Rise of AI Robots
One of the most talked-about releases is Sharp’s “Poketomo”, a pocket-sized (12 cm) AI robot that can chat, gesture, and even “remember” experiences with its owner. With an integrated camera and AI-driven dialogue system, Poketomo isn’t just a toy—it’s designed to grow closer to you over time, recalling shared moments and conversations.
Unlike earlier robots that focused on entertainment or simple tasks, this new generation of toys aims to build emotional connections. They are marketed not only for children but also for adults seeking companionship, stress relief, or a quirky way to track their daily life.
Market Trends: Why Japan Is Betting on AI Toys
The AI robot boom is not happening in isolation—it reflects broader market dynamics in Japan’s toy industry:
- Record-breaking toy sales: In 2024, Japan’s toy market exceeded 1 trillion yen, with strong growth in card games, character goods, and adult-friendly “kidult” toys.
- Growing adult demand: The “kidult” segment—adults buying toys for themselves—has become a driving force, from collectible figures to high-tech gadgets.
- Tourism & inbound demand: With international visitors returning, Japanese toys (especially high-tech ones) are gaining global attention as unique souvenirs and cultural exports.
By combining these forces, AI-powered toys like Poketomo sit at the intersection of technology, lifestyle, and culture, making them a natural fit for today’s Japanese market.
More Than Play: A Glimpse into the Future
The rise of AI toys also reflects deeper shifts in Japanese society:
- Technology as everyday life partner: Japan has long been at the forefront of robotics, from Sony’s Aibo to communication robots like Pepper. AI toys are a continuation of this legacy, but in a more personal, portable form.
- Blurring lines between toys and devices: With features like memory recall and emotional responses, these products feel closer to wearable tech or personal AI assistants than traditional toys.
- A global showcase of innovation: Events like the Tokyo Toy Show highlight how Japan continues to be a leader in merging play with cutting-edge technology.
Why It Matters
For international audiences, Japan’s latest toy trend isn’t just about cute gadgets—it’s about how AI is reshaping daily life, even in the realm of play. Whether as companions for children, stress-relievers for adults, or collectible cultural icons, AI-powered robots are carving out a new space in the market.
As toys evolve into interactive partners, Japan is once again showing the world how play and technology can merge to create something entirely new.
✨ Takeaway for Trendbites readers:
If you’re curious about the future of AI in everyday life, look no further than Japan’s toy industry. It’s playful, innovative, and a fascinating preview of how human-AI relationships might evolve—starting from the palm of your hand.
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