Narta (the National Associated Retail Traders of Australia) has reportedly signed on ‘Birde’ – manufacturer of the world’s first smart media player for kids – as its preferred national supplier.
As per Appliance Retailer, Narta will assist Birde to launch in several Aussie retailers by Christmas, with a RRP of $299 (includes $60 worth of content and wireless charging base).
Australian-based Birde was reportedly developed by former Breville product development engineer, Daniel Corkin, after noting a market gap for ‘kid friendly’ smart speakers.
Former Sunbeam and Breville chief, Jack Lord, has taken the helm as Birde CEO, coupled with former Palsonic executive, Mark Lee, as Birde General Manager of Sales.
With no access to the internet [or advertising], children over 1 years can independently use Birde to listen to music, audiobooks, or play video when synced to a connected smart device (e.g. TV).
Content is stored on hexagonal disks (‘Birde Seeds’), with material specifically developed for young children. Content partners include ABC Kids, StoryBots and Dinosnores with more to come ($11.95 per pack).
Birde claims the product is a game-changer for Aussie homes, allowing young children to use technology in a safe way.
In lieu of voicing commands – like a standard smart speaker – kids simply tap a Birde Seed disk on the speaker.
Parents can also control the speaker via an app, restricting usage, changing volume and more.
Speaking to Appliance Retailer, Narta Senior Category Manager AV & Imaging, Alistair Robins, asserts there’s “nothing” like Birde on the local market, allowing young kids to independently control media, without fear they’ll run loose on the internet.
Further information is available on Birde’s website here.
