Here is technology that looks to turn game time into brain time. VTech's V.Smile TV learning system has combined educational content, loveable characters and a video game platform into a system that connects to the television. V.Smile teaches children aged three to seven day-to-day skills and curricula such as language, math, vocabulary and problem solving through entertaining gameplay with exchangeable Smartridges.

The product will be able later this year. Television time and video gaming for kids are on the rise. According to 2003 Nielsen Media Research, 99 per cent of households have at least one television set, while around 67 per cent own video gaming devices, and by 2005, video gaming devices are expected to penetrate more than 70 million households, nearly double the penetration of 2001 (Forrester Research 2003). The pervasiveness of these two entertainment formats prompted VTech to develop a product that takes something kids are already familiar with and turn it into a positive experience with educational and developmental benefits.

V.Smile features a library of 10 Smartridges with a variety of characters like Winnie the Pooh, Scooby-Doo to guide children through fun games and developmental activities that help them learn to follow directions, develop fine motor skills, and gain confidence as they're rewarded with positive phrases. Children navigate each game by using a hand-held joystick with oversized buttons.

VTech supplies cordless phones as well as electronic learning products.