NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Toys have become incredibly high-tech, and even old school classics are undergoing makeovers to haul them into the digital era.

Many of us remember drawing hypnotic patterns with a Spirograph set or reenacting action scenes with Transformers robots (in disguise).

No need to reminisce for much longer though, because they’ve been given a facelift for the 21st century.

Fidget spinners, a relatively-new plaything, have also been souped-up to serve as handheld mental gymnasiums. If this all sounds like your idea of fun, read on for our pick of the best toys to buy this year.

Spirograph goes digital, with no paper or pens – but a LCD screen that can save your artwork, or reset your screen at the push of a button. Suitable for eight plus.

A robotic dog that can teach kids to code in minutes – and reward them with actual expressions. Teaching two coding languages, Blockly and Python, this wifi-connected and programmable pet changes colour, wags its tail and performs tricks.

Out April 24. Pre-order for £101 from Amazon

This long range gel blaster launches up to 12 gellets per second – with a new burst fire mode and velocity dial that boosts it to 250ft per second. The 1,000 gellets loaded into the hopper are eco safe and leave zero mess. For ages 14 up.

Price and availability TBC, from Gel Blaster

Transformers fans will lose their robot-loving minds when they see this. More than just a toy, this cool bot uses a range of microchips, motors and cutting-edge robotics to automatically and seamlessly transform from a remote controlled truck into an autobot. Sound effects and phrases, and app and voice control compete the line-up.

Aspiring DJs will love this portable mini mixer. Mounted with two 12in turntables, complete with real scratch effects, a crossfader, 14 LED soundpads and gesture controls, you could have the next David Guetta on your hands.

This smart, palm-sized fidget spinner takes the fingerbased trend to a whole new level by gamifying the entire process with neon colours and LED lights. Focusing specifically on target memory, focus, hand/eye coordination, critical thinking and small motor skills, there are five fast-paced and addictive games to button bash.

Buy for £13 from Flycatcher Toys

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