Smart Toys Get Social: How JD.com Is Connecting Families Through AI

Imagine your child's teddy bear chatting with grandma's smart speaker - that's the future JD.com's Joyinside division is building. Their newly launched "Happy Planet Social Play Mode" breaks down barriers between smart devices in ways we haven't seen before.

No More Lonely Gadgets

Gone are the days when smart devices lived in isolation. Joyinside has created what might be China's first cross-brand social network for hardware. Now, whether it's a robot dog from Brand A or a talking doll from Brand B, these AI companions can actually become "friends" through secure connections.

The system uses private codes that kids can share like secret handshakes. During Lunar New Year, families embraced this feature enthusiastically - JD.com reported nearly three times the usual sales for their connected toy sets.

Speaking Everyone's Language

Behind the scenes, Joyinside upgraded their technology significantly:

• Their JoyAI large model now understands and speaks eight regional dialects
• Improved speech synthesis makes interactions feel more natural
• Special aging-friendly features help grandparents connect with tech-savvy grandchildren

The dialect support proves particularly meaningful in a country as linguistically diverse as China. Suddenly, grandma in Guangzhou can understand the Mandarin-challenged smart toy her Beijing grandson sent.

More Than Just Toys

This isn't just about playtime. JD.com's data shows families increasingly view AI products as bridges between generations rather than mere gadgets. What began as standalone smart speakers has evolved into what analysts call "the set era" - where interconnected devices create entire ecosystems of companionship.

The emotional connection seems to be driving sales. As one Shanghai parent noted while buying a connected toy set: "It's not just entertaining my daughter - it helps her feel close to her grandparents who live far away."

Key Points:

• Cross-brand connectivity: Different manufacturers' devices can now interact securely
• Cultural adaptation: Support for eight dialects makes technology more inclusive
• Emotional tech: Families are embracing AI products that strengthen bonds across generations