A Kids Learning Tablet: The VTech InnoTab Review

++++++UPDATE++++++

December 20, 2011

I’m very disappointed to report that our InnoTab has broken. The software is fine and the product itself seems fine and durable, but the stand on the back portion which props the device has broken. One of the pegs “snapped” and the stand is no longer attached to the InnoTab.

I wrote the company an email immediately after the stand broke from the InnoTab and waited a week before calling as no contact via email was made on their end to reach me. Sad, since they’re a technology company! Calling I first made the mistake to saying I wanted a replacement part; I was directed by the automated voice to check online and she hung up on me. I had to recall and select an option that I didn’t feel met my needs, but I knew it would lead to reaching a live customer support representative.

I spoke with vTech about my InnoTab and since the piece can’t be replaced they have to replace the entire product. With the demand of the Christmas season they don’t have any on hand to replace mine currently, but they give me a reference number and I need to call back after Christmas.

I am happy that I finally got service. I’m also pleased that my problem is going to be fixed by vTech ESPECIALLY since my product is not old and has not been abused though my children play their InnoTab a lot.

I would still recommend the InnoTab, but I do have my doubts about the stand and recommending the quality of the features of the InnoTab. Lastly, you all know I have a pink/purple InnoTab; when I call back after Christmas I might see about having that replaced with a white/blue model. I wonder if they will mind?

+++++ORIGINAL++++++

At the Time To Play Holiday Showcase, I had the opportunity to play with the VTech InnoTab as it was awarded one of the top toys of this Holiday Season. I think it’s great having a toy like mommy and daddy’s iPad or computer that’s much more durable.

Plus it comes with a great line up of name brand applications that kids already know and love. From any Disney character to Scooby Doo.

VTech sent MomStart one InnoTab to review and this is Summer’s review:

Children always want the latest gadgets and I’m not talking about your spouse, I’m really talking about your children! My sons always want to tough my phone, help me type on the computer, turn on the T.V. and entertainment center equipment, and play Wii and Xbox. Gadgets, gadgets, gadgets. I have to say my sons get it honest enough their dad is a software engineer and I love to stay in touch with everyone I’ve ever met via Facebook and my phone. But now my sons can have their very own age appropriate gadget thanks to VTech Kids.

My 4YO has been asking us when he could get his own laptop. Well, we one upped him with a tablet, a VTech InnoTab Interactive Learning App Tablet, which is suitable at home or on the go. This kid computer is designed for ages 4-9 year old. The style mimics other adult electronics with simple tile selection offering art, games, music, calendar, e-reader, videos, photos, notes, calculator, clock, friends, and also offers cartridge interaction and downloads. Children can then visit the Learning Lodge Navigator with a parent to get free V.Coins to buy new games, e-books, and apps.

My 4YO is in love with his InnoTab and his is pink (not by choice we were mailed a pink one). He has been playing games that work on his problem solving skills and spelling. He enjoys making art and saves it on an SD card which is inserted into the InnoTab device. Most of the time my son uses his own finger, but he is fascinated by the stylus that comes tucked into its own little hole in the side of the InnoTab and uses it especially in the “Color & Pop” app. My 2YO even loves to play on the VTech InnoTab, his favorite is the freestyle art pad; though 2YO is too young if you’re thinking of this for a family’s first child. The VTech InnoTab just shouts CHRISTMAS GIFT!

You can get your own VTech InnoTab Interactive Learning Tablet in white/blue or pink/purple. The price ranges from about $80-100 depending on retailer and preferred color. The cartridges include Scooby-Doo, Disney favorites (like princess and Cars), Sponge Bob, Penguins of Madagascar, and Dora; cartridges are sold separately and cost about $25 (cartridges are NOT needed for the system). To get started you will, however, need 4 AA batteries and an SD card so be sure you these on hand! This is also a toy you’ll want to have opened and added to before gifting to your child for an upcoming birthday or holiday season. Prediction … Christmas Hot Item so GET IT NOW!

Mom Starts Rating of the VTech InnoTab Interactivie Learning Tablet: A

If you want to keep up with VTech hottest kid items, you can Like VTech on Facebook or follow them on Twitter @VTechToys. You can also get your VTech questions answered by Pilar, the VTech Mom, through either forum.

VTech was also kind enough to let us host a giveaway too!

This giveaway has ended. Congratulations to the winner, Debbie Stanton.

All rules can be found under giveaway rules.

We received samples.