Yoto announces 4th generation of popular audio players

Yoto is getting a makeover.

Available for preorder as of Sept. 10, the popular kids’ audio players have received an upgrade in the form of enhanced tech specs, new chipsets, a bigger nightlight, and an overall design evolution that includes some cool new features that both kids and parents will love.

“We've re-engineered the entire product from the ground up,” Yoto co-founder and CEO Ben Drury told Mashable. “It's actually finally the product that we wanted to create in the first place.”

The 4th generation of the Yoto Player and the Yoto Mini include the introduction of the brand new Green Button. Located on the side of each device, this button will allow kids to access a host of downloaded audio stored locally on the player — no WiFi or Yoto Card necessary.

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Once their grown-up puts it onto the player, they can rifle through tracks on their own. Devices will contain two playlists of up to 20 titles, putting even more power into their sticky little fingers.

Part of the retooling also includes faster download times, better connectivity, and up to 1,000 hours of storage (64GB) for each device.

While any parent will tell you that it’s what’s on the inside that counts, each Yoto is getting a spiffed-up look on the outside too. The audio players have softened their edges, with a more rounded, friendlier aesthetic that is sure to appeal to kids while still looking great on the shelf.

With these design shifts, the Yoto will outgrow the previous generation of silicone Adventure Jackets, though we're told these will get an overhaul in the near future as well. Wireless docks and travel cases will remain compatible.

The new Yoto Mini will retail for $109.99 and is expected to start shipping as of Sept. 30, while the Yoto Player will retail for $149.99 and is expected as of Oct. 15.