Best app-controlled toys

An app can turn a simple toy into something you set up to your own taste. It also adds things to think about: pairing, privacy and battery. This guide lists five phone-controlled toys whose makers publish clear specs.

Everything below is taken from the makers’ product pages. We cannot speak to how the apps behave, so we stick to what the pages state.

What to look for

• How it connects. Some pages say Bluetooth, and some describe control over distance. Read the page.
• Battery. A longer stated run time means the session does not end early.
• Water resistance. An IPX7 or fully waterproof rating is useful. The Lush 4’s page notes that Bluetooth may be unstable underwater, so a rating is not a promise that the app connection will behave in water.
• Noise and discretion. Check whether the page says anything about noise.
• Privacy. Review what data the app collects before you pair.
• Materials. Every pick below lists a silicone build.

Our picks

Lovense Lush 4: the longest stated run time

Lovense Lush 4 is our top pick. It is a Bluetooth wearable controlled through the Lovense Remote app from across the room or across the world, according to the page. It lists an IPX7 rating, magnetic recharging and up to 350 minutes of run time, the longest of the five, with a minimum sound level of 36 dB.

We-Vibe Nova 2: a dual-action model

We-Vibe Nova 2 is a dual-action model that works with the We-Vibe app, including over distance according to the page. It is described as waterproof, USB rechargeable and made from body-safe silicone free of phthalates, BPA and latex, with up to 120 minutes of run time. It suits solo or partnered use.

LELO Gigi 3: app-connected, with a stated noise level

LELO Gigi 3 is a curved vibrator that connects to the LELO app, which adds two extra modes. The page states it is 100% waterproof and USB rechargeable, with up to two hours of use and a maximum noise level under 60 dB. That is a maximum, not a quiet claim.

Lovense Ambi: a quiet-flagged bullet with app control

Lovense Ambi is a small bullet that the page calls quiet and discreet. It has an IPX7 rating, charges through a USB magnetic dock and lists up to two hours of battery. The page describes it as a practical pick for travel and for customising patterns from a phone.

Lovense Ferri: the wearable

Lovense Ferri is a magnet-clip wearable controlled from the Lovense Remote app. The page describes it as whisper quiet with an IPX7 rating, magnetic charging and 195 minutes per charge, and as a discreet choice for on-the-go wear or remote play with a partner.

How to choose

For the longest stated battery and control at a distance, take the Lush 4. For the We-Vibe app, choose the Nova 2. For the LELO app and a stated noise ceiling, look at the Gigi 3. For a bullet that carries a quiet flag and app control, the Ambi fits, and the Ferri covers wearable use.

What to keep in mind

An app is an extra layer. It relies on your phone and on updates, and it may collect data, so keep the permissions minimal and read the maker’s privacy information. Battery figures are “up to” claims. Prices and stock change and some stores price by region, so check each product page for the current offer. To see how we shortlist products, read How we choose.