cars2Taking multitouch to the next level, Disney has released Appmates, small Hot Wheels-sized toys from the Pixar movie Cars, that physically interact with the multitouch screen on the iPad. The cars from Cars "drive" across the screen, with racing and other games reacting to the cars' movements. Disney calls the technology a "virtual play mat" where kids can experience the world of Radiator Springs.

The cars sell for $20 as a 2-pack, with the companion apps available for free. Different toys unlock different features, offering different games if children play with Mater or Lightning McQueen, for example. The toys go on sale next month at Apple and Disney retail stores, and various other retailers.

Apple Chairman Steve Jobs, as the former CEO and owner of Pixar, is the largest stockholder in Disney and a member of the Disney board.


Disney recently released Where's My Water?, which toppled Angry Birds as the #1 paid application on the App Store. The $0.99 game, which is reminiscent of Cut the Rope, involves getting water to Swampy, an alligator who is trying to take a shower.

Top Rated Comments

wovel Avatar
177 months ago
I love having kids. Makes buying this stuff less creepy.
Score: 5 Votes (Like | Disagree)
coder12 Avatar
176 months ago
I'd be more worried about my screen being cracked because junior went off a jump with Lightning McQueen and landed on the iPad really hard.
Score: 3 Votes (Like | Disagree)
chown33 Avatar
177 months ago
I love having kids. Makes buying this stuff less creepy.

It's for my nephew. No, really.
Score: 3 Votes (Like | Disagree)
accessoriesguy Avatar
176 months ago
I remember i used to have just as much with those rugs that looked like they had roads, i could play with my toy cars all day on those. guess times are really changing!
Score: 1 Votes (Like | Disagree)
jeff526 Avatar
176 months ago
That looks so cool
My only hesitation is my son will think any car will work on this and scratch the screen
Score: 1 Votes (Like | Disagree)
spillproof Avatar
177 months ago
I want one!!

This is 21st century version of car carpet cities.
Score: 1 Votes (Like | Disagree)

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