Talking Tom Talk Back

$29, Smart Toy

Teaches: language, oral feedback, vocalization

CTR Rating: 77.5%

CTR Review

This version of Talking Tom, called "Talking Tom Talk Back" from Dragon-i Toys, ($30, www.talkingfriends.com) is 12-inch tall stuffed cat with a sensitive, hidden microphone and moving lips. We liked the Cuddle Barn product better. If you press his hand, he parrots-back anything he hears, in 4 second phrases. The result on children is fun to watch, as they literally put words in Tom's mouth, over and over again. Besides the parrot feature, Tom can also make other sounds -- some not so polite -- when his tummy is rubbed -- just like the app. Note that Tom has a twin called Talking Ben Talk Back, with the same price and capacity. Also note that there are better designed versions of the same toy, for a slightly higher price. Check the Cuddle Barn brand. There are some limitations. Tom can only store 20 seconds of sound bites before he turns into a deaf stuffed animal, and there is no warning. So you might keep talking, with no result. You learn that you need to squeeze Tom's hand to wake him up, and keep your sessions brief. A set of other Plush toys that only make the app sounds are also available in 8", 10" and 12" sizes for $8, $10 and $13 respectively. Key chains are also available for $5. There are now 14 characters in the Talking Friends collection, including Talking Tom Cat, Talking Ben and Talking Gina the Giraffe. The apps, from Outfit7 run on either Apple or Android devices, and they feature the same animated 3D characters that can engage in two-way conversations, which can them be shared on Facebook, YouTube or email.