Disney To Release New Toys That Will Separate Parents From Their iPads

Disney has announced the availability of AppMATes Mobile Application Toys, the first toy that turns your iPad into a virtual play mat. The new toys and apps arrive next month at retailers nationwide. Developed in collaboration between Disney Consumer Products (DCP) and Disney Mobile, the AppMATes toy line features miniature Disney Pixar Cars 2 vehicles that interact with the iDevice. Each car, which will cost $20 for a two-pack, features sensors at the base of each toy that are recognized by the free Cars 2 AppMATes app. According to Sunny Lauridsen, director of digital toys for DCP:

"We have cracked the technology code in changing the way kids play with their toys. Kids will always use toys to play out their favorite Disney stories, but Disney Appmates now allows them to include technology which has become a way of life for them through a beautifully rich app."

Disney AppMATes toys are available starting Oct. 1 at national retailers, Apple Store, Apple Store online, Disney Store and DisneyStore.com with vehicle two-packs featuring four characters including Lightning McQueen, Tow Mater, Finn McMissile, and Holley Shiftwell. Two additional characters -- Francesco Bernoulli and Shu Todoroki -- will launch in November and be available exclusively through Apple Store and Apple Store online. The Cars 2 AppMATes app should arrive in the App Store around the same time. Take a look:

Cars 2 Appmates features include:

• Exploration -- Drive around the world of Radiator Springs to discover landscapes and hidden secrets by simply placing the Cars toy character on the screen and turning it in any direction. Drive through mud and up ramps, visit friends at Flo's V8 Cafe or check out your Car's reflection, showing off your latest gear and gadgets.
• Directed Game Play -- Perform missions unique to each character. Completed missions -- like helping bring a tow hook back to Mater -- gain hubcaps, the virtual currency. Collect enough hubcaps to personalize each car with special features like a unique horn sound, customized tire tracks, and cool gear like a rocket launcher or spy vision goggles.
• Racing -- Rev up the action by racing against World Grand Prix opponents and your Radiator Springs friends. Five racetracks are available at launch. Race around Willy's Butte, jump off Carburetor Mesa and roar through downtown Radiator Springs earning hubcaps in day or night races.

  Once we (or our kids) get our hands on the mobile toys and app, we'll let you know what we think. Stay tuned.

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