Toy Fair 2016 puts spotlight on beloved movie characters

Toys that were put on display at the International Toy Fair 2016 include a life-size BB-8, more Star Wars characters and a revamped Cabbage Patch Kids doll.

The 2016 International Toy Fair held in New York featured a slew of new toys that will be coming up throughout the year.

Several hit movie franchises called for toy licenses, such as the BB-8 toy from the Star Wars: The Force Awakens film. The life-size app-enabled robot is almost identical to the one in the movie. It can take voice commands, has a controller, and can detect from which direction the sound comes from and move towards it.

The follow-me mode allows the toy to follow the user around, while the sentry mode enables BB-8 to sound an alarm upon detecting movement in its surroundings. It will be sold for retail at approximately $180 and will come out in the fall of 2016.

Educational toys from Lego has continued its release of Star Wars collections. Characters such as Leia Organa, Kylo Ren and C-3PO are offered in several sets. The Millenium Falcon is also available.

The all-new Cabbage Patch Kids dolls come with LCD eyes, and touch sensors are embedded in various body parts. Tickling her hand can make the doll laugh. LED lights on her cheek glow when she is sick, and medicine is administered via a sensor-loaded spoon. Moreover, a motion sensor enables her to 'sense' when the user is trying to put her to sleep. An accompanying app can be used and the doll can connect using Bluetooth.

For some personal touch, the app provides the doll's birth certificate and adoption papers. Gamification is incorporated in the app, in which users can accumulate points to buy new clothes or redecorate the baby's room. The developers have stated that a baby boy version may be available in the future. For those seeking grown-up versions, Barbie has come out with dolls in diverse body types and skin colors.