Moore’s Law has been manifesting itself in creative ways this year. Take Tickle Me Elmo, released November 13, from Fisher-Price. T.M.X. Elmo Extra Special Edition (TMX stands for Tickle Me Extreme) has twice the vocabulary and moves, plus some hidden Easter Eggs, at the same price ($40) as last year. The 1996 version just giggled and shook.
Standing 13 inches tall, this furry Elmo is hardly cuddly, due to the fact that he’s crammed with motors, six AA batteries and a rigid arm that turns to return him to a standing position following one of his giggling tirades. He has three hidden switches in his chin, left foot or belly. Elmo might laugh, fall over and shake across the floor, sometimes to a musical tune. Hidden routines include tantrums, musical numbers or hiccups; depending on which switches are pressed. But the best part is how he rights himself, often with a “whew, Elmo’s tired.” While this toy leaves little to the imagination, it sure makes a noisy first impression that is sure to clear the room of any grownup — or pet — within earshot.
