3D Printers For Kids: Hasbro Teams With 3D Systems

There is no doubt 3D printers can be tremendous learning tools. There are already major initiatives in place to help bring printers to millions of kids across America, and eventually the world, by bringing them into classrooms. 3D Systems and Hasbro Inc. are taking a bit of a different approach.

The two companies have announced today that they are teaming up to “co-develop and commercialize innovative play printers and platforms,” sometime later this year. The partnership seems like a match made in heaven if you love technologically driven games and toys. Hasbro is one of the world’s leading game manufacturers, and 3D systems in the largest 3D printing company in the world. The two companies will work together to co-develop what they claim will be immersive and creative experiences for children and their families.

“We believe 3D printing offers endless potential to bring incredible new play experiences for kids and we’re excited to work with 3D Systems, a recognized industry leader in this space,” said Hasbro President & CEO Brian Goldner.

Clearly, 3D printing is the next step in gaming.  Already do-it-yourselfers have created games which use 3D printed parts.  For Hasbro to ignore the technology could mean a long term loss of business.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with Hasbro, a premier, global, branded play company, to jointly define, shape and lead the entire digital play space, powered by 3D printing,” said Avi Reichental, President and CEO, 3DS.

There is no word on exactly what will be developed, or whether it will be actual printers marketed towards children, or games which require a 3D printer, like 3D Systems’ Cubify Cube.

Discuss the 3D Systems and Hasbro Partnership.