Toniebox 2 with Pokémon figures for audio-based entertainment

For several years now, the Toniebox has been one of the most successful audio play systems for children. With the new collaboration between tonies and Pokémon, the concept now includes another well-known brand.

A yellow Toniebox 2 with Pokémon figures, developed specifically for this partnership, was unveiled. The system remains true to its basic principle: stories, music and audio content are started via figures that are placed on the box. Screens play no role in this. The combination of a globally renowned entertainment brand and an established audio concept is intended to appeal to both children who are already familiar with Pokémon and those who are encountering the characters for the first time.

tonies launches Toniebox 2 with Pokémon figures

At the heart of the collaboration is a special version of the Toniebox 2. It comes in yellow, deliberately echoing the colour scheme of the Pokémon series. Among others, Pikachu – one of the most famous characters in the franchise – is featured on the box. The operating principle remains unchanged: children place a figure on the Toniebox 2, whereupon audio content is automatically played. This content can be stories, music or other audio formats. Operation is intuitive, involving placing the figures on the box and simple gestures. Four Pokémon figures are set to be released at market launch. Each figure activates its own content. This expands the existing range of Tonies, which already includes numerous well-known characters from children's books, films and series.

Toniebox 2 as an audio-based gaming system without a screen

A key feature of the system is the deliberate absence of displays. From the outset, Tonies has positioned the Toniebox as a screen-free alternative to tablets or smartphones. The content is conveyed exclusively via audio. This approach plays an important role, especially for younger children. Interaction takes place through listening, imagining and storytelling. This leaves room for imagination and personal interpretation of the stories. Typical functions of the system include:

• Start audio content by placing a figure on the box
• Intuitive operation without a menu structure
• Audio content instead of screen display
• Large selection of figures and stories

Pokémon figures expand the Tonies range

With Pokémon, Tonies is expanding its portfolio to include one of the world's best-known brands in the entertainment sector. The figures have been shaping games, series and films for decades. Pikachu is considered the symbolic figure of the entire universe. The new Tonies transfer this world into audio format. Children can hear familiar characters and experience stories from the Pokémon universe. At the same time, the system offers an introduction for children who are not yet familiar with Pokémon. The collaboration also shows how much the Tonies range has expanded in recent years. In addition to classic children's book characters, there are now numerous international brands.

Screen-free entertainment as a conscious concept

The success of the Toniebox is not only based on its ease of use. The clear media education concept is also crucial. Tonies consistently focuses on audio content instead of visual stimuli. Parents often appreciate this approach. While many digital products use screens from an early age, the Toniebox offers a different form of entertainment. Children listen to stories, music or dialogues and develop their own images in their minds. This form of media use can play an important role, especially in pre-school age. It promotes language comprehension, attention and imagination.

Market launch of the Pokémon Toniebox 2

The Pokémon version of the Toniebox 2 is scheduled for release in the summer. The plan is to launch it in all markets where the system is already available. This will roll out the cooperation internationally. The launch is in line with tonies' strategy of continuously expanding its range and linking it to well-known brands. Each new series of figures opens up additional content and appeals to new target groups. Pokémon is a franchise that has shaped generations of fans. The Toniebox transfers this universe into a format that deliberately focuses on listening rather than screen use. The Toniebox 2 with Pokémon figures is thus exemplary of a development in the toy sector: digital content is no longer conveyed exclusively via displays. Instead, hybrid concepts are emerging in which physical figures and audio experiences interact.