Interactive Toy System

Abstract

An interactive toy system comprises a toy figurine 2 and a first mobile communication device 3. The toy figurine has a unique identifier tag 8, while the first mobile communication device is equipped

Description

The present invention relates to the field of interactive toys and playthings. In particular, the present invention relates to an interactive toy system comprising a toy figurine. Toy figurines, such as action figures, dolls, pets, and other forms have long been popular among children and adults. These toys provide entertainment, imaginative play, and enable individuals to showcase and interact with their favourite characters in a tangible form. Additionally, many people enjoy collecting toy figurines as a hobby. Due to advancements in technology, the field of interactive toys has expanded to include interactive and digitally enhanced features, adding a new dimension to the play experience. For example, in modern digital environments, individuals can create and personalise avatars to suit their preferences. These avatars serve as digital personas within a virtual environment and may be used to engage in a wide range of activities, such as earning rewards, and connecting with other individuals via messaging and social tools. Advancing through levels and unlocking new features is a common aspect of modern gaming and virtual world experiences, to enhance the enjoyment of such interactive environments. As technology has advanced, children have become more familiar with the internet, social media platforms, and online gaming. This shift has prompted toy manufacturers to integrate advanced technologies into their products. In particular, there is now an increased demand for more sophisticated toys that allow the user to benefit from additional interactive features that support the features provided within virtual, on-line worlds. As toys can now be designed to interface with each other, or the internet, it opens up new possibilities for interactive play. For example, some toys may connect wirelessly or via hardwired connections to computer systems, enabling access to virtual worlds online. These toys often incorporate readers or sensors to interact with their physical surroundings. Real-time information from these interactions can be relayed to the virtual environment through the computer system. Alternatively, this data can be uploaded to the virtual world later when the toy is connected to the computer system, ensuring ongoing synchronization between the real and virtual realms. An example of such a toy is disclosed in UK patent number GB 2,507,073 B. As more toys with different interactive methods become available, there is a focus on the enhancing the user experience and the quality of the interactions. Despite the evolution of various interactive toys and computer-based gameplay, there remains a demand for diverse and engaging interactive devices, such as toy figures, to ensure continued user engagement and enjoyment. It is an object of an embodiment of the present invention to provide an alternative interactive toy system that combines interactive play with engaging features that enhance the interactive and social aspects of the interactive toy system. Summary of Invention According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided an interactive toy system comprising: a toy figurine having an associated unique identifier tag; a first mobile communication device having a first unique identifier sensor, and upon which is stored a software application; wherein the software application downloads and stores information relating to the toy figurine when the first unique identifier sensor detects the associated unique identifier tag. The interactive toy system comprises a toy figurine that interacts with a first mobile communication device. The unique identifier tag on the toy figurine allows the first mobile communication device to recognise and download specific information via the first unique identifier sensor. This has the advantage of enhancing the toy's interactivity, providing personalised content. Users can store information relating to their toy figurine, creating both a real and virtual counterpart of the toy figurine. The unique identifier tag may comprise a Near Field Communication (NFC) tag or a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tag or a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) tag. The first unique identifier sensor may comprise a Near Field Communication (NFC) sensor or a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) sensor or a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) sensor. The toy figurine may comprise a base with a character mounted on the base. The base provides support for the toy figurine. The unique identifier tag may be located on the base or on the character of the toy figurine. The unique identifier tag may be embedded within the toy figurine. The toy figurine is preferably constructed from plastic, resin or metal. Alternatively, the toy figurine may be constructed from silicone, foam, gel, or rubber. The first mobile communication device may comprise a mobile phone or a tablet. Preferably the stored information is used to create a digital character within the software application. Preferably, the software application prevents downloading and storing information relating to the toy figurine once the first unique identifier sensor has detected the unique identifier tag. Preferably, the software application allows for removal of the stored information relating to the toy figurine, enabling the software application to download and store information upon subsequent detection of the unique identifier tag by the first unique identifier sensor. The interactive toy system may further comprise two or more mobile communication devices each having an associated unique identifier sensor, and upon which is stored the software application. The software application downloads and stores information relating to the toy figurine on an associated mobile communication device when the unique identifier tag is detected by one of the associated unique identifier sensors. Preferably, the software application prevents downloading and storing information relating to the toy figurine on any of the two or more mobile communication devices once one of the associated unique identifier sensors has detected the associated unique identifier tag. Implementing this feature ensures that the user of the interactive toy system has exclusive access to the digital representation of their toy figurine. By restricting the detection of the unique identifier tag, the software application can only download and store the information to a single mobile communication device. In this way, the interactive toy system prevents the sharing of figurines between users to maintain the uniqueness and ownership of each toy figurine. Preferably, the software application allows for removal of the stored information relating to the toy figurine from an associated mobile communication devices, enabling the software application to download and store information upon subsequent detection of the unique identifier tag by one of the unique identifier sensors of the two or more mobile communication devices. Enabling the deletion or removal of the stored information from the software application offers flexibility in ownership and facilitates the exchange of toy figurines between users. By removing the stored data associated with a particular toy figurine, users can seamlessly transfer ownership to another individual. This feature enhances the interactive and social aspects of the interactive toy system, as users can engage in trading or swapping activities, thereby broadening their toy collections. The software application may dynamically update the stored information. The software application may dynamically update the stored information based on real-world events. The software application may dynamically update the stored information based on achievements, performance metrics, and or news updates relating to the real-world event e.g. sporting events and the performance of participants therein. The software application may automatically provide dynamic updates to the stored information. Alternatively, the software application may provide notifications or prompts to dynamically update the stored information. The toy figurine or packaging of the toy figurine may include security features such as QR codes, digital watermarks, or micro-defects to prevent unauthorised detection and ensure authenticity. The software application may further comprise passive multi-factor authentication to verify the authenticity of the toy figurine. The interactive toy system may comprise two or more toy figurines each having an associated unique identifier tag. The software application downloads and stores information relating to each toy figurine when the first or second unique identifier sensor detects the associated unique identifier tag. The stored information may create a collection of two or more digital characters relating to the two or more toy figurines. The collection of two or more digital characters may be categorised into "legendary" and "active" characters, with legendary characters having static stored information and active characters having dynamically updated stored information. According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for using an interactive toy system, comprising: providing a toy figurine having an associated unique identifier tag; providing a first mobile communication device having a first unique identifier sensor and a software application; and employing the first unique identifier sensor to detect the unique identifier tag; and downloading and storing information relating to the toy figurine on the software application. Preferably, downloading and storing information relating to the toy figurine creates a digital character within the software application. Preferably, the method further comprises preventing the downloading and storing of information relating to the toy figurine once the first unique identifier sensor has detected the unique identifier tag. The method may further comprise allowing for removal of the stored information relating to the toy figurine from the software application and enabling the software application to download and store information upon subsequent detection of the unique identifier tag by the first unique identifier sensor. The method for using an interactive toy system may further comprise providing two or more mobile communication devices each having an associated unique identifier sensor and the software application. The method further comprising employing one of the unique identifier sensors to detect the unique identifier tag; and downloading and storing information relating to the toy figurine on the software application of one of the two or more mobile communication devices. The method may further comprise preventing the downloading and storing of information relating to the toy figurine on any of the two or more mobile communication devices once one of the associated unique identifier sensors has detected the associated unique identifier tag. The method may further comprise allowing for removal of the stored information relating to the toy figurine from the software application and enabling software application to download and store information upon subsequent detection of the associated unique identifier tag by one of the unique identifier sensors of the two or more mobile communication devices. Optionally, the method may comprise dynamically updating the stored information relating to the toy figurine. Preferably, dynamically updating the stored information comprises updating the stored information based on a real-world event e.g. sporting events and the performance of participants therein. The method may comprise dynamically updating the stored information based on achievements, performance metrics, and or news updates relating to the real-world event. The method may comprise automatically updating the stored information. Alternatively, the method may comprise providing notifications or prompts with the software application to update the stored information. The method may comprise providing two or more toy figurines each having an associated unique identifier tag and downloading and storing information relating to each of the two or more toy figurines on the software application by detecting each of the two or more unique identifier tags with the first unique identifier sensor. Preferably, downloading and storing information relating to each of the two or more toy figurines creates a collection of two or more digital characters within the software application. The method may further comprise categorising the collection of two or more digital characters into "legendary" and "active" characters, with legendary characters having static stored information and active characters having dynamically updated stored information. Embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention may comprise features to implement the preferred or optional features of the first aspect of the invention or vice versa. Brief Description of Drawings Figure 1 presents an interactive toy system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 presents an interactive toy system in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 presents a flow chart depicting real-world event updates for the interactive toy systems of Figures 1 or 2; and Figure 4 presents an interactive toy system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In the description which follows, like parts are marked throughout the specification and drawings with the same reference numerals. The drawings are not necessarily to scale and the proportions of certain parts have been exaggerated to better illustrate details and features of embodiments of the invention. Detailed Description An explanation of the present invention will now be described with reference to Figures 1 to 4. Figure 1 presents an interactive toy system, as generally depicted by reference numeral 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The interactive toy system 1 depicted in Figure 1 comprises a toy figurine 2 and a first mobile communication device 3. The first mobile communication device 3 of Figure 1 is a mobile phone. However, the first mobile communication device 3 could alternatively comprise a tablet, or any other suitable portable communication device. The first mobile communication device 3 features a first unique identifier sensor 4. For example, the first unique identifier sensor 4 may be a NearField Communication (NFC) reader, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) reader or a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) sensor. Furthermore, the first mobile communication device 3 is equipped with a dedicated software application 5 specifically designed for use with the interactive toy system 1. The software application 5 provides a user with tools or features that complement and enhance the interactive functionalities of the interactive toy system 1. The toy figurine 2 of Figure 1 can be seen to feature a base 6, with a character 7 mounted on the base 6. The base 6 acts to provide stability, ensuring that the toy figurine 2 can stand securely on a flat surface. However, the toy figurine 2 could alternatively be designed without a base 6, for example if stability is not required, or if the character 7 itself is designed to provide the required stability. The character 7 may be based on a real person, a fictional character, or an original design, and the toy figurine 2 can also include features such as distinct clothing and accessories. The toy figurine 2 can be constructed from a variety of materials, depending on the desired characteristics and functionality. For example, the toy figurine 2 may be made from hard materials such as plastic, resin, or metal to ensure durability and stability. Alternatively, the toy figurine 2 may be fabricated from softer materials such as silicone, foam, gel or rubber. When the toy figurine 2 is made from such softer substances, it may additionally function as a stress ball, i.e. designed so that it can be squeezed and manipulated to help relieve stress. The choice of material can be tailored to suit the specific needs and safety standards of different age groups, ensuring that the toy figurine 2 is safe, durable, and engaging for its intended audience. The toy figurine 2 of Figure 1 further comprises a unique identifier tag 8 located on the base 6 of the toy figurine 2. However, the unique identifier tag 8 could alternatively be located on the character 7 of the toy figurine 2. Furthermore, in Figure 1 the unique identifier tag 8 is placed on the external surface of the toy figurine 2. However, the unique identifier tag 8 could alternatively be embedded within toy figurine 2. The unique identifier tag 8 comprises any appropriate communication technology. For example, the unique identifier tag 8 may be an NFC, RFID or BLE tag. In particular, the unique identifier tag 8 facilitates the interactive functionality of the toy figurine 2 with the first unique identifier sensor 4 of the first mobile communication device 3. The toy figurine 2 and first mobile communication device 3 of the interactive toy system 1 interact when the first unique identifier sensor 4 detects the unique identifier tag 8 on the toy figurine 2. When the first unique identifier sensor 4 detects the unique identifier tag 8, the software application 5 downloads and stores information relating to the toy figurine 2 onto the first mobile communication device 3. The downloaded information linked to the toy figurine 2 may include a variety of different information. For example, the downloaded information may include a character profile such as a name, background information and or character traits. It may also include a visual representation such as a 3D model or animation. The downloaded information can additionally include attributes such strength and agility, items such as weapons or distinctive clothing and interaction data that may include actions and dialogue. Furthermore, the downloaded information may also comprise levels and or awards associated with that toy figurine 2. When the first mobile communication device 3 detects the toy figurine's 2 unique identifier tag 8, the relevant data is downloaded and stored on the software application 5, enabling the software application 5 to generate a corresponding digital character 9. As a result, both a virtual collection comprising the digital character 9 and a real collection comprising the toy figurine 2 is created following the interaction of the toy figurine 2 and first mobile communication device 3. Additionally, the stored information may provide for some customisation options to the digital character 9, for example options for changing the visual representation of the digital character 9. The unique identifier tag 8 ensures the exclusivity of the toy figurine 2 by only allowing for the toy figurine 2 to be scanned once by the first mobile communication device 3. After the unique identifier tag 8 is detected by the first unique identifier sensor 4, the software application 5 prevents it from been detected again. Consequently, a particular toy figurine 2 cannot be added as a digital character 9 twice to the same virtual collection. This restriction also applies to other unique identifier sensors on other mobile communication devices. By way of example, Figure 2 shows an interactive toy system 10 comprising both a first 3a and second 3b mobile communication device. The first 3a and second 3b mobile communication device comprise first 4a and second 4b unique identifier sensors respectively. Furthermore, both the first 3a and second 3b mobile communication devices are equipped with the same software application 5. The unique identifier tag 8 of the toy figurine 2 may be detected by either the first 4a or second 4b unique identifier sensor. In Figure 2, the first unique identifier sensor 4a of the first mobile communication device 3a detects the toy figurine's 2 unique identifier tag 8. Therefore, the relevant data is downloaded and stored on the software application 5 on the first mobile communication device 3a generating a corresponding digital character 9. The software application 5 ensures that when information relating to the toy figurine 2 has already been downloaded and stored from the unique identifier tag 8, neither the first 3a nor the second 3b mobile communication device can download and store that information again using their respective unique identifier sensors, 4a and 4b. As a result, a particular toy figurine 2 can only belong to one virtual collection at a time. This prohibits duplicate additions of the toy figurine 2 within the same collection on a single mobile communication device 3 and prevents simultaneous addition of the toy figurine 2 to different collections on other mobile communication device devices 3. However, the interactive toy systems 1,10 depicted in Figures 1 and 2 may allow for the digital character 9 of a unique toy figurine 2 to be removed from the software application 5 of the mobile communication device 3. This enables the owner to transfer, swap or trade a particular toy figurine 2 to another user. Upon removal of the digital character 9 from the software application 5, the unique identifier tag 8 of the unique toy figurine 2 can be detected again by a mobile communication device 3, and will then be added to the software application 5 of that mobile communication device 3. This feature provides flexibility in ownership and enhances the interactive and social aspects of the interactive toy system 1,10. As previously discussed, the interactive toy systems 1, 10 of Figures 1 and 2 may feature a toy figurine 2 that can be inspired by real-world individuals, for example someone who participates in various events or sporting activities. In such cases, the interactive toy system 1, 10 of the present invention can allow users to engage with real-world events in a dynamic way. By way of example, Figure 3 presents a flow chart outlining real-world event monitoring for an interactive toy system 1, 10, as described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. The flow chart depicted in Figure 3 shows the essential stages required for real-world event monitoring of a digital character 9. The initial step involves detecting a unique identifier tag 8 of a unique toy figurine 2 using a mobile communication device 3. After successful detection of the toy figurine 2 the software application 5 downloads and stores bespoke data specific to that toy figurine 2 to create a digital character 9. This data can include statistics, character details or attributes and any other associated data relevant to the toy figurine 2. For example, if the toy figurine 2 is modelled after a well-known sports personality, the stored data could encompass key achievements, performance metrics, or other relevant data. Following the addition of the digital character 9 to the software application 5, the mobile communication device 3 can then be used as a tool for monitoring real-world event data directly relevant to that specific digital character 9. For instance, if the digital character 9 represents a well-known sports personality, the software application 5 can dynamically track relevant sports events, achievements and news updates associated with that persona. Following or during a particular live event, the software application 5 can then capture the data relating to the specific digital character 9. After monitoring and capturing the real-world event data, the data is then processed by the software application 5 to extract the appropriate data. Once the real-world event data has been processed by the software application 5, it can be integrated with the presently stored data for the digital character 9. As a result, the software application 5 can be programmed to update or change the digital character’s 9 data during or after real-world events. By capturing real-word event data it ensures that the digital representation of the unique toy figurine 2 remains current and reflective of real-world developments. The monitoring of real-world events facilitates dynamic adjustments to the stored data, such as the associated statistics or features of the corresponding digital character 9. Notably, when the digital character 9 is traded or transferred to another user, its accumulated points and data may remain intact, preserving its value and history. Therefore, the dynamic nature of the digital character 9 introduces an additional play aspect to the interactive toy system 11. Additional statistics accrued from live events may increase the value of the toy figurine 2 and enhance its desirability and trade value. This feature adds a strategic layer to the user experience, as players can trade characters based on their performance and projected future value. For users this feature results in combining the excitement of real-world events with interactive play. Furthermore, it further enhances the interactive and social aspects of the interactive toy system 1, 10 by providing a continuously evolving play experience. Different Modes of Operation The interactive toy system 1,10 can be adapted to suit different user preferences and technical capabilities through various operating modes. These various operating modes primarily revolve around the specific implementation of the software application 5, and its role within the interactive toy system 1,10. Basic Implementation For a basic implementation, a user of the interactive toy system 1,10 scans a unique identifier tag 8 of the toy figurine 2 using either the first 3a or second 3b mobile communication device’s associated unique identifier sensor 4. After scanning the toy figurine 2 the software application 5 compares the unique identifier tag 8 to a database of unique identifications. Different methods that may be used for identification include RFID, NFC or visual identification using the camera of the mobile communication device 3. For example, once a toy figurine 2 is successfully identified by the software application 5 of the first mobile communication device 3a, the user is directed towards online content for that specific toy figurine 2. In particular, the unique identifier tag 8 is identified from the database of unique identifications and the software application 5 then downloads statistics and unlocks online content relating to the toy figurine 2, i.e. creates a digital character 9. These statistics relating to the digital character 9 can be updated automatically (e.g. from real-word events) by the software application 5 or, alternatively, the software application 5 can indicate when new statistics are waiting to be downloaded by flagging or signalling for user action. For instance, the user may be required to rescan the unique identifier tag 8 to confirm ownership of the toy figurine 2 before accessing the updated statistics. The user can remove the digital character 9 relating to the toy figurine 2 from the software application 5 for trading, which affects or stops the notifications of statistic updates. The data for the digital character 9 relating to the toy figurine 2 can be backed up to cloud services (e.g. iCloud RTM or Google Drive RTM) or alternatively users can rescan the unique identifier tag 8 to retrieve historic statistics and content. Mid-Level Implementation For a mid-level implementation of the interactive toy system 1,10, the interactive toy system 1,10 again employs unique identification methods for the toy figurine 2, such as NFC, RFID or Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication. The unique identification method links each toy figurine 2 to digitally stored information related to its owner, such as ownership, access rights to online content etc. The digitally stored information may be on the software application 5 of either the first 3a or second 3b mobile communication device, remotely on a centralised data server, or remotely on a decentralised system such as a Blockchain. For example, mid-level implementation of the software application 5 involves the owner of a toy figurine 2 downloading the software application 5 to their mobile communication device 3 and then creating a remote account within the software application 5. The user can then detect the unique identifier tag 8 of the toy figurine 2, which is compared to a database of stored data. Once the toy figurine 2 is identified and the digital character 9 is added to the software application 5, the software application 5 acts to lock the unique identifier tag 8 of that toy figurine 2 to the user i.e. associates the unique identifier tag 8 with their remote account only. The software application 5 also downloads current statistics and unlocks online content, or alternatively it begins to collate statistics and content from the date the digital character 9 is added to the user's remote account. Statistics for the digital character 9 can be automatically updated by the software application 5, or alternatively notifications may prompt the user to rescan the unique identifier tag 8 of the toy figurine 2 for updates, thereby confirming ownership of the toy figurine 2. The digital characters 9 can be unlocked in the database via the software application 5 to enable trading between users. Advanced Implementation In the advanced implementation of the interactive toy system 1,10, the software application 5 attempts to authenticate the toy figurine 2 as an original and links it to information related to the owner such as ownership, associated access rights to online content, etc, where this information is stored digitally. Authentication of the toy figurine 2 may be achieved through technologies like NFC, RFID, or Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication. Upon detecting the toy figurine 2 with either the first 3a or second 3b mobile communication device, an encoded key may be generated, where the encoded key is then verified externally. External verification may take place locally by software application 5 on the first 3a or second 3b mobile communication device, remotely on a centralised data server, or remotely on a decentralised system such as a Blockchain. For example, when using advanced implementation of the software application 5, the owner of the toy figurine 2 downloads the software application 5 to their mobile communication device 3 and creates a local account. The software application 5 can then conduct an active authentication against the unique identifier tag 8 of the toy figurine 2, generating a secured encoded key to authenticate and identify the toy figurine 2. Subsequently the software application 5 ensures that the toy figurine 2 is exclusively associated with the user by encrypting a unique code, derived from a user-generated password, along with a date stamp onto the unique identifier tag 8 of the toy figurine 2. The software application 5 either downloads the current statistics and unlocks online content relating to the toy figurine 2 or alternatively the software application 5 begins to collate statistics and content as of the date the toy figurine 2 is added as a digital character 9 to the software application 5. The statistics can be automatically updated by the software application 5, or potential updates can be flagged to the user for user interaction before downloading the updates. In the advanced implementation, the digital character 9 can also be unlocked via the software application 5 for trading with other users. If a toy figurine 2 is accidentally traded without unlocking, the owner can generate and share a unlock code. The new owner of the toy figurine 2 can then enter this code within the software application 5 and scan the unique identifier tag 8 to add the digital character 9 to their collection. All owner account information and collection information are stored on the software application 5 only and may be backed up to cloud services (e.g. iCloud R™ or Google Drive RTM) for security or viewing on other devices. In case of a catastrophic data loss, the digital character 9 can be unlocked using the user created password, and statistics then restart from the date and time indicated by the previously generated date stamp. Note that each of the above modes of operations may also utilise passive multi-factor authentication to verify the toy figurine 2 is authentic. In addition to the unique identifier tag 8, the toy figurine 2 and or its packaging may comprise additional security features, such as secure QR codes, digital print watermarks and or micro-defects. When the first unique identifier sensor 4 of the first mobile communication device 3 scans the toy figurine 2 it will detect both the unique identifier tag 8 and any additional security features. The software application 5 can then check all this information to confirm that the toy figurine 2 is genuine. Therefore, such security features can be used to ensure that the toy figurine 2 is authentic before it is securely linked it to the user’s account. An interactive toy system 11 that incorporates multiple toy figurines will now be described with reference to Figure 4. Figure 4 comprises several different toy figurines 2,12,13. Each of the unique toy figurines 2, 12, 13 comprises a unique identifier tag 8a, 8b, 8c that can be detected by the first unique identifier sensor 4 of the first mobile communication device 3. After detecting each of the toy figurines 2, 12, 13 the software application 5 downloads and stores tailored data specific to each toy figurine 2,12, 13 to create three digital characters 9, 14, 15 within the software application 5. In this way a virtual collection comprising multiple digital characters 9, 14, 15 is created by the software application 5. As such, users are able to progressively build a comprehensive toy figurine collection over time. Furthermore, the user is provided with the benefit of having both a real world collection of toy figurines 2, 12, 13, in addition to a digital collection comprising the virtual digital characters 9,14, 15. As described with reference to Figure 3, the stored data for each individual digital character 9, 14 and 15 may be dynamically updated through real-world event monitoring. This feature allows the digital characters to evolve and reflect real-time developments. Referring to Figure 4, the digital collection can encompass both "legendary" and "active" characters 9,14 and 15. Legendary characters have static statistics that remain unchanged, and therefore maintain their initial value and status over time. In contrast, active characters possess dynamic points that fluctuate based on real-world events, allowing their attributes and performance metrics to continually evolve. As such, the different toy figurines 2, 12,13 and their associated digital characters 9, 14, 15 will have different trade values depending on their status as “legendary” or "active", further enhancing the interactive and social aspects of the interactive toy system 11. The toy figurines 2, 12, 13 of the interactive toy systems 1, 10, 11 may be sold in waves. Each wave consists of multiple characters and could be packed in equal or variable ratios (giving rise to “chase” figures). The toy figurines 2, 12, 13 may be delivered to a user in a number of different ways, e.g. individually in high visibility packs; individually in blind packs; and - in multiples in starter packs or play sets. A foil or mesh that is impermeable to the unique identifier sensor 4 on the mobile communication device 3 could be incorporated in the packaging of the toy figurines 2, 12, 13 to prevent any unauthorised pre-sale detection. An interactive toy system is described that comprises a toy figurine and a first mobile communication device. The toy figurine has a unique identifier tag, while the first mobile communication device is equipped with a unique identifier sensor that is capable of detecting the unique identifier tag of the toy figurine. The first mobile communication device additionally comprises a software application, and upon detection of a unique identifier tag by the unique identifier sensor, the software application downloads and stores information relating to the toy figurine. The interactive toy system therefore combines physical toy figurines with corresponding virtual digital characters, enhancing the interactive experience for a user. The foregoing description of the invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description and is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. The described embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical application to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilise the invention in various embodiments and with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. Therefore, further modifications or improvements may be incorporated without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An interactive toy system comprising:a toy figurine having an associated unique identifier tag;a first mobile communication device having a first unique identifier sensor, and upon which is stored a software application;wherein the software application downloads and stores information relating to the toy figurine when the first unique identifier sensor detects the associated unique identifier tag.

2. The interactive toy system of claim 1, wherein the stored information is used to create a digital character within the software application.

3. The interactive toy system of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the software application prevents downloading and storing information relating to the toy figurine once the first unique identifier sensor has detected the unique identifier tag.

4. The interactive toy system of claim 3, wherein the software application allows for removal of the stored information relating to the toy figurine, enabling the software application to download and store information upon subsequent detection of the unique identifier tag by the first unique identifier sensor.

5. The interactive toy system of any of the preceding claims further comprising two or more mobile communication devices each having an associated unique identifier sensor, and upon which the software application is stored.

6. The interactive toy system of claim 5 wherein the software application downloads and stores information relating to the toy figurine on one of the two or more mobile communication devices when the unique identifier tag is detected by one of the associated unique identifier sensors.

7. The interactive toy system of claim 6, wherein the software application prevents downloading and storing information relating to the toy figurine on any of the two ormore mobile communication devices once one of the associated unique identifier sensors has detected the unique identifier tag.

8. The interactive toy system of claim 7, wherein the software application allows for removal of the stored information relating to the toy figurine from the two or more mobile communication devices, enabling the software application to download and store information upon subsequent detection of the unique identifier tag by one of the unique identifier sensors of the two or more mobile communication devices.

9. The interactive toy system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the software application dynamically updates the stored information based on real-world events.

10. The interactive toy system of claim 9, wherein the software application dynamically updates the stored information based on achievements, performance metrics, and or news updates relating to real-world events.

11. The interactive toy system of claim 9 or 10, wherein the software application automatically provides dynamic updates to the stored information or prompts the user to update the stored information.

12. The interactive toy system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the toy figurine or packaging of the toy figurine includes security features such as QR codes, digital watermarks, or micro-defects.

13. The interactive toy system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the software application comprises passive multi-factor authentication to verify the authenticity of the toy figurine.

14. The interactive toy system of any of the preceding claims, further comprising two or more toy figurines each having an associated unique identifier tag, wherein the software application downloads and stores information relating to each of the two or more toy figurines when the unique identifier sensor detects the associated unique identifier tag.

15. The interactive toy system of claim 14, wherein downloading and storing information relating to the two or more toy figurines creates a collection of two or more digital characters within the software application.

16. The interactive toy system of claim 15, wherein the collection of two or more digital characters may be categorised into legendary and active characters, with legendary characters having static stored information and active characters having dynamically updated stored information.

17. The interactive toy system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the unique identifier tag comprises a Near Field Communication tag, a Radio Frequency Identification tag, or a Bluetooth Low Energy tag.

18. The interactive toy system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the first unique identifier sensor comprises a Near Field Communication sensor, a Radio Frequency Identification sensor, or a Bluetooth Low Energy sensor.

19. The interactive toy system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the first mobile communication device comprises a mobile phone or a tablet.

20. A method for using an interactive toy system, comprising:providing a toy figurine having an associated unique identifier tag;providing a first mobile communication device having a first unique identifier sensor and a software application;employing the first unique identifier sensor to detect the unique identifier tag; and downloading and storing information relating to the toy figurine on the software application.

21. The method for using an interactive toy system as claimed in claim 20, the method comprising providing two or more mobile communication devices each having an associated unique identifier sensor and the software application, employing one of the unique identifier sensors to detect the unique identifier tag; and downloading and storing information relating to the toy figurine on the software application of one of the two or more mobile communication devices.

22. The method for using an interactive toy system as claimed in claim 20 or 21, the method comprising preventing the downloading and storing of information relating to the toy figurine on any of the two or more mobile communication devices once one of the associated unique identifier sensors has detected the associated unique identifier tag.

23. The method for using an interactive toy system as claimed in claim 22, the method comprising allowing for removal of the stored information relating to the toy figurine from the software application and enabling software application to download and store information upon subsequent detection of the associated unique identifier tag by one of the unique identifier sensors of the two or more mobile communication devices.

24. The method for using an interactive toy system as claimed in any of claims 20 to 23, the method comprising dynamically updating the stored information relating to the toy figurine based on real-world events.

25. The method for using an interactive toy system as claimed in claim 24, the method comprising automatically updating the stored information or providing notifications or prompts with the software application to update the stored information.

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