PHILIPPINES – Leading 3D design solutions provider, Autodesk, Inc., has made two recent announcements that further strengthen its role in 3D design and printing with the launch of its Tinkerplay app and a partnership with toy manufacturer, Mattel, Inc. (Mattel),.
The launch of these two initiatives provide kids of all ages with new ways to express their creativity and imagination and will also help parents and educators ensure a safe, innovative and creative learning environment for young learners.
The Tinkerplay app is the latest addition to Autodesk’s Tinkercad family of products and was developed by the company to promote creative play through 3D design and 3D printing among children. Based on the popular Modio app which Autodesk acquired in March, Tinkerplay allowing users to design and customize characters and creatures digitally with the option to 3D print afterwards. The 3D printed parts can also be snapped together for dynamic play.
“Creators, designers and makers from ages five to ninety have blown us away with their passion for 3D modeling and 3D printing,” said Vice President And General Manager for Autodesk Consumer and 3D Printing Samir Hanna. “With Tinkerplay, we’re providing another great tool designed for kids of all ages, who want to play, create and tinker.”
Aside from this, the company also signed an exclusive agreement with Mattel, one of the largest toymakers in the world, to power the latter’s toy line with cutting-edge 3D design and 3D printing technology. Autodesk said the joint initiative will provide a new immersive experience by combining beloved physical toys with digital adventures.
“Autodesk is dedicated to providing powerful, yet easy-to-use 3D design and 3D printing apps to unlock the creativity in everyone. Partnering with an iconic brand like Mattel provides us with an opportunity to demonstrate how Spark, our open 3D printing platform, can help create amazing experiences that bridge the digital and physical worlds and push the boundaries of creative play,” Hanna said.
The exclusive collaboration aims to bring hands-on design experiences to support an interactive learning environment through fun apps so that kids can also learn while they play. The digital experiences also engender pride in accomplishment and tap directly into the maker trend that encourages creativity, imagination, and open-ended customization.
“We’re constantly inspired by the passion and creativity we see among kids around the world,” said Senior Vice President and Global Brand General Manager for Toy Box at Mattel Doug Wadleigh. “Technology is changing daily and by harnessing Mattel’s expertise in play and Autodesk’s expertise with creative apps and 3D printing, we’re able to offer a new kind of 3D design experience, continuing the Mattel legacy of inspiring imagination and creativity.”