The LEGO Group launched LEGO SMART Play in London, showcasing the innovative SMART Brick designed to enhance children's play by integrating technology, such as sound and light. LEGO Senior Vice President Core Business Lena Dixen, LEGO Senior Vice President New Business Federico Begher and The Walt Disney Company Senior Vice President EMEA Claire Terry explained the concept behind the SMART Brick and how it forms the basis of a new LEGO system. The initial products are Star Wars themed and aim to provide engaging play experiences with sturdy models.
Author: Graham
Graham is Blocks magazine’s Editor and author of LEGO Heroes: Lego Builders Changing the World – One Brick at a Time. A LEGO expert who can’t remember life without the brick, Graham loves using that knowledge to bring Blocks to the shelf every single month.
Is LEGO SMART Play going to revolutionise the brick?
LEGO Smart Play introduces interactive elements through a core brick paired with tags and minifigures, featured in new Star Wars sets. This innovation aims to engage children in imaginative play without screens. While initial models may not satisfy all adult collectors, they signal a promising future for LEGO's interactive offerings.
A message from Blocks magazine to our readers – 2025
Blocks magazine Editor Graham E. Hancock reflects on the LEGO magazine's achievements during 2025, highlighting the release of 12 monthly issues and a new special magazine, Blocks Book of Retro LEGO Sets Volume III. He expresses gratitude to readers and emphasises the blended approach of print and digital content. He promises that exciting new developments await LEGO enthusiasts in 2026.
LEGO Harry Potter is coming to LEGOLAND
LEGOLAND Deutschland Resort in Germany will introduce the first-ever LEGO Harry Potter land and hotel, inviting fans into a blocky Wizarding World experience. Details remain sparse, with more information expected in 2026. The collaboration between Merlin Entertainments and Warner Bros. includes plans to create immersive experiences for Harry Potter fans globally.
LEGO Technic 42223 1966 Ford GT40 MKII Race Car arriving in the brick garage
The LEGO Group will launch the 42223 1966 Ford GT40 MKII Race Car set on January 1, 2026, featuring 793 pieces and priced at £64.99. This model reflects the winning MKII from the 1966 World Championship, including hand of god steering and typical Technic features.
LEGO Icons gets cosy with 11372 Autumn Cottage Garden
LEGO Icons 11372 Autumn Cottage Garden set will launch on January 1, 2026, featuring 1,102 pieces for £99.99 / $119.99 / €109.99. Inspired by Northern Europe, it includes a rustic cottage, various trees, and garden elements. You can rearrange the plants within the display, making it easy to customise without significant rebuilding.
LEGO Architecture 21064 Paris – City of Love presents a new style
LEGO Architecture 21064 Paris – City of Love will launch on January 1, 2026, featuring 958 pieces and priced at £69.99 / $79.99 / €79.99. Unlike previous sets, it captures the entire city with iconic landmarks including the Eiffel Tower and Louvre.
LEGO Art 31218 Japanese Cherry Blossom Landscape announced
LEGO 31218 Japanese Cherry Blossom Landscape launches on January 1, 2026, made up of 1,892 pieces for £99.99 / $139.99 / €119.99. Inspired by Ukiyo-e art, it showcases Mount Fuji, a teahouse, and cherry blossoms. The set can be displayed as wall art or as a free-standing piece.
LEGO 40768 Star Trek: Type-15 Shuttlepod unveiled as bonus freebie
The 40768 Star Trek: Type-15 Shuttlepod is a free minifigure-scale set with 261 pieces, available with the purchase of the 10356 Star Trek Enterprise starting November 28. It features Ensign Ro Laren, opening doors, a detailed interior, and honours real-life space exploration.
LEGO Icons 10356 Star Trek Enterprise boldly goes where no brick has gone before
LEGO Icons is releasing a 3,600-piece model of the U.S.S. Enterprise NCC-1701-D, featuring Captain Picard. The set, priced at £349.99/$399.99, launches on November 28. It includes nine minifigures, accessories, and a detachable command saucer. Those who buy 10356 Star Trek Enterprise from November 28 to December 1 receive a free Type-15 Shuttlepod.