Bei Jing Shang Bao·2026-01-21 11:52Core Insights - The AI toy market in China is rapidly growing, with projections indicating a market size of 246 billion yuan in 2024 and an expected increase to 290 billion yuan in 2025, which is double the growth rate of traditional toys [3][8] - Major tech companies and IP giants are entering the AI toy sector, creating a multi-dimensional competitive landscape, while traditional toy manufacturers and startups are adapting by leveraging their strengths [3][8] - The emotional connection and understanding of user needs are becoming the core value propositions of AI toys, shifting the focus from mere functionality to companionship [11][12] Market Dynamics - The AI toy market is characterized by significant participation from internet giants and leading consumer electronics companies, indicating a shift towards AI toys as the next generation of human-computer interaction and family data gateways [8][9] - Sales data shows a booming market, with products like "显眼包" achieving over 1.2 billion yuan in GMV within 48 hours of launch, and AI toys integrated with JoyInside seeing a 20-fold increase in sales during the "双11" shopping festival compared to earlier periods [14][16] - The market is still in its early stages, with a projected compound annual growth rate of 14%-16% over the next decade, potentially exceeding 60 billion USD by 2034 [13][22] Competitive Landscape - The entry of major players has created a protective barrier in the AI toy market, compelling traditional manufacturers and startups to innovate and differentiate themselves [9][18] - Different companies are focusing on various aspects of the market: internet giants on data and AI capabilities, consumer electronics firms on supply chain management, and IP companies on emotional connections and content creation [18][21] - The competition is expected to evolve into a differentiation strategy rather than a price war, with companies focusing on unique emotional and technological offerings [21][22] Consumer Trends - The AI toy market caters to a wide range of age groups, with children aged 3-12 making up 62% of the market, while the Z generation (ages 18-35) shows a 45% repurchase rate driven by emotional needs [22] - The demand for AI toys is fueled by the increasing need for companionship among various demographics, including children, young adults, and the elderly [22][25] - The emotional value of AI toys is becoming a key selling point, with consumers seeking products that provide companionship rather than just functionality [12][22] Ethical and Safety Concerns - The rapid growth of the AI toy market raises concerns about data privacy, as these toys collect sensitive information from users, particularly children [23][27] - There are worries about the potential negative impact of AI toys on children's social skills and emotional development, as reliance on these products may hinder real-life interactions [25][27] - Industry experts emphasize the need for strict content filtering and data protection measures to ensure the safety and ethical use of AI toys [27][28]