LEGO Pokémon Smart Play Sets Launch August 2026 with Lights and Sounds

LEGO is releasing 12 new Pokémon sets with 'Smart Play' tech in August 2026. Some sets have the 'Smart Brick' built-in for lights and sounds.
By Newsroom | Toys, Technology |

LEGO has officially revealed 12 new Pokémon building sets, all incorporating what the company terms 'Smart Play' technology. This new system hinges on a component called a 'Smart Brick', designed to enhance interactivity within the sets by generating light and sound effects under specific conditions. Some of these new sets will include the Smart Brick, while others will be "compatible," requiring users to acquire the brick separately to activate the interactive features.

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The initial wave of these sets is slated for release in August 2026, with availability noted through LEGO's official website, physical stores, and select retailers. The 'Smart Play' system was first introduced by LEGO earlier in the year, initially appearing in LEGO Star Wars sets. To facilitate this new interactive experience, LEGO offers "All-in-One" sets which bundle a Smart Brick, a charger, and multiple 'Smart Tags' – components that work in conjunction with the brick.

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Several of the upcoming Pokémon sets will feature the Smart Brick:

  • Jolteon Ultimate Battle (72167): This set reportedly includes two Smart Bricks.

  • Pikachu's Training House (72164): Positioned as a primary set, this "All-in-One" offering contains a Smart Brick.

Other sets, such as Cubone and Gengar's Spooky Showdown (72166) and Jigglypuff Concert (72159), are described as "compatible" and may only include Smart Tags, necessitating the purchase of a separate Smart Brick. Reports suggest that LEGO intends to sell Smart Bricks independently in the future, a move that could broaden the reach of the Smart Play features across the toy line. The Smart Brick is designed to detect proximity and specific modes, like "battle mode," enabling interactive responses between the brick and other components within a set.

The announcement follows the successful launch of LEGO's initial Pokémon sets earlier this year, which reportedly saw significant demand, causing website issues due to record preorders. The Smart Play system aims to imbue LEGO builds with responsive electronic capabilities without relying on screens, adding a layer of dynamic engagement to the traditional building experience. Sets vary in age recommendations, with some designed for as young as age 6.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are LEGO's new Pokémon Smart Play sets?
LEGO is releasing 12 new Pokémon building sets in August 2026 that use 'Smart Play' technology. This tech adds lights and sounds to the blocks when certain conditions are met.
Q: Which Pokémon sets will have the 'Smart Brick'?
Sets like 'Jolteon Ultimate Battle' and 'Pikachu's Training House' will include the 'Smart Brick'. Other sets, like 'Cubone and Gengar's Spooky Showdown', will be 'compatible' and may need a separate Smart Brick purchase.
Q: When can I buy the new LEGO Pokémon Smart Play sets?
The first wave of these interactive LEGO Pokémon sets is planned to be available starting in August 2026. You can find them on LEGO's website, in stores, and at other retailers.
Q: How does the 'Smart Play' technology work in the LEGO sets?
The 'Smart Brick' can detect when it's near other components or in specific modes, like 'battle mode'. This allows the brick to create light and sound effects, making the LEGO builds more interactive without needing a screen.
Q: Will LEGO sell the 'Smart Brick' separately?
LEGO plans to sell 'Smart Bricks' on their own in the future. This will allow more people to use the interactive features with compatible sets.
Q: What age are these new LEGO Pokémon sets for?
The age range for these new sets varies, with some designed for children as young as 6 years old.