US – The world’s largest toy company, Mattel, unveiled its Barbie Digital Makeover Mirror at the 110th American International Toy Fair last week. The device enables girls to experiment with make-up digitally.
Using an iPad and a separate vanity pink frame, girls can apply glitter, eyeshadow and lipstick. They simply dip a wand into the pretend make-up and, through augmented reality and photo facial recognition software, the make-up appears on their faces when they look into the iPad screen. With its white show lights, the digital mirror is one that few young girls could resist.
As in real life, if a makeover doesn’t turn out right, users can start again, digitally wiping off their make-up and experimenting with different colours. Once they find a look they like, they can save it to a scrapbook or share it with friends on Facebook. Children are increasingly using iPads and tablet devices during play. For more, read our Markets feature on Generation I Tablets.