Introducing the Internet of Toys

This introduction aims to contextualise The Internet of Toys (IoToys) within the tradition of media and communications, set out the theoretical foundations for this volume, and explore the notions of mediatization, datafication and robotification. First, it makes the argument that IoToys should be conceived of as media that are triply articulated in children’s everyday lives. Their network-connectivity and sensor-based functions provide the basis for the mediatization and datafication of children’s lives. Second, it analyses IoToys as toys that enable forms of hybrid play and embedded play, and as social robots that are automated in such a way that they elicit social responses from or interaction with children. Finally, it provides a summary of the chapters of the book.