12 days of technology, Day 2: The Lego Boost

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December 4, 2018

The holidays are stressful enough without having to worry about finding the perfect gift for the ones you love. That’s why this holiday season, MyITpros is stepping in and doing all the shopping for you! Whether you’re technically savvy or not, we’ve picked out 12 awesome gadgets that are sure to make you the gift-giving hit of the season.

Check back each day to discover the next perfect present during our 12 days of technology!

What it is: The Lego Boost

Named the 2018 Toy of the Year, the Lego Boost is the hottest thing in STEM toys. After the recipient of the kit uses the 847 Legos contained within to build a 10”-tall robot (lovingly named Vernie), it’s time to program the bot using the Lego boost app, which is compatible with most operating systems. Vernie can be programmed to move in all directions, talk, drive, shoot rockets off his shoulders and dance! He can also sense motion, color and distance, and can even protect a room from intruders! And the fun doesn’t end once Vernie is constructed and ready to go—at this point, users will be able to complete preprogrammed challenges using the app to test their knowledge of programming.

And when all Vernie’s challenges have been completed, the next step is to build something else! Users can follow the step-by-step instructions included in the kit to build four other Lego creations. There’s Frankie the Cat, who purrs, meows and loves being stroked. There’s the Autobuilder function, which allows the recipient to build more mini Lego robots. For the musically inclined, the guitar4000 sensor can be coded to trigger sound effects and change the tone of notes using the programmable whammy bar. And lastly, the multi-tooled rover can be programmed to drive and complete other tasks. The next step? Connect Lego Boost to the “Stormbringer the Lightning Dragon” or “Arctic Scout Truck” Lego sets (sold separately) and bring those creations to life. No matter how you play, this toy guarantees hours of fun while teaching kids about STEM and coding in the process.

Lego Boost

How much it costs: $159.95

The Lego boost is currently selling for $159.95 on Amazon (with free shipping). You can also find it online or in-store at major retailers such as Target and Walmart.

Who to buy it for: The robot (or Lego) fanatic in your life

Although the Lego Boost is targeted toward children ages 7 and older, we think it can be enjoyed by everyone! It combines construction and coding, so regardless of whether you gravitate toward the building part or the STEM part, this kit has something for everyone. There’s a world of possibilities when it comes to this toy, so there’s no wonder it won Toy of the Year 2018.

We're Integris. We're always working to empower people through technology.

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