How to Choose an App-Enabled AI Toy

Arguably the biggest factor when it comes to buying an AI toy is the app behind it controlling the toy. The unfortunate thing is that most parents think about the toy first, then are often disappointed by the app. This article will cover the primary features you should be looking for in an app when you are buying an AI toy.

What is an App-Enabled AI Toy?

To put it simply, an app-enabled AI toy is a toy that is controlled by an app on a smartphone or tablet that enhances the toy's AI features. This can take many forms, from an AI toy like Curio to an AI coding robot that is controlled through the app. App-enabled AI toys is a broad term, so knowing what to look for is what separates a great pick from a forgettable one.

What Makes a Good App?

Every app is different, but before you buy, it's worth taking a quick look over its features to make sure it covers all bases.

Ease of Use

Ease of use is an often overlooked feature when it comes to apps. While it's not always immediately apparent from the product page, you should be able to pick up the app and understand its commands and actions without much trouble. One good way to get a feel for it before buying is to watch a review video of the toy you are looking at, since most reviewers will walk through how the app actually works.

Another important factor is whether the app is designed to be used by children. If a child can't navigate the app on their own, it can seriously take away from the play experience. While ease of use may not be the first thing you think about when evaluating an app, it is definitely one worth paying attention to.

Parental Controls

When choosing an app, you always want to be in control of what your child is exposed to. A good app will have restrictions built in automatically, and an even better one will give you the ability to add more on top of that. This can come in the form of manual playtime limits or extra content blocking set by the parent. Certain AI toy apps also include personalization settings, meaning you can set what topics you want the toy to talk about. You can also do it the other way around, setting topics you want the AI to avoid beyond the standard content filtering.

Compatibility and Accessibility

This is a feature that will be almost immediately apparent upon getting the toy. Always check that the app supports both Android and iOS before buying, since the last thing you want is to open the box and find out the app does not work on your phone. Another thing to consider is whether the app requires WiFi or an internet connection, as most app-enabled AI toys will need one to function.

Regular Updates and Good Support

Although regular updates and good support are not always easy to evaluate before buying, they should be a consideration with any AI toy. Regular updates are vital to keeping an app safe, and that is especially important when your child is the one using it. Before purchasing, check the manufacturer's website to see if they have a clear and easy to find support page. Good support is a sign that a company stands behind their product long term.

Privacy Policy and Your Data

Companies should have a clear and direct privacy policy. You should know how your child's data is being handled, and it should be clearly stated on their website. Privacy policies are legally required to disclose how data is being used, and you should stay away from any company with a shady or non-existent one. It is also important to make sure the company is COPPA compliant if they are based in the US.

Key Takeaway: You are letting a device listen to your child. You have every right to know what happens with that data. Not every company is as transparent as Curio, so always double check the privacy policy before buying.

Where to Look

When looking for an app enabled AI toy it would not be fair to not mention our own toy lineup at Curio. We have a wide selection of toys for all ages, and they all use the same powerful app. This company was built with children's privacy and safety in mind, and we are one of the few AI toy companies with a KidSAFE seal.

Our 2026 lineup is full of fun and capable toys like Gabbo and Grem. Each toy has its own unique name, voice and personality that develops over time. Everything from the hardware to the software is built in house, and there is no subscription required. If you want a toy that is safe, capable and genuinely fun for your child, Curio is a great place to start. Check out the full Curio lineup, or if you are still weighing your options, our parents buying guide breaks down everything you need to know.

Conclusion

Choosing the right app-enabled AI toy comes down to more than just the toy itself. A good app should have ease of use, parental controls, compatibility, and regular updates with solid support. The app is overlooked far too often, but as you now know it is just as important as the toy it powers. This article should give you the tools you need to make a confident choice when shopping for an app-enabled AI toy.