Remember the iconic toy that took the world by storm in 1998? The first Furby wasn’t just a plaything—it was a revolution. With over 40 million units sold, this little robot became a household name, blending tech and charm in a way no toy had before.
What made it special? The Furby learned words, reacted to touch, and even chatted with other models using infrared. It wasn’t just smart—it felt alive. Today, collectors hunt rare versions, with some selling for thousands.
In this guide, we’ll explore its history, how it works, and tips to keep yours running smoothly. Whether you’re reliving childhood memories or discovering it for the first time, the Furby’s magic hasn’t faded.
The Fascinating History of the Original Furby
In 1998, a groundbreaking toy changed playtime forever. The first furby debuted at the American International Toy Fair, captivating audiences with its emoto-tronic technology. Designed by David Hampton and Caleb Chung, this robotic pet took 18 months to perfect.
From Toy Fair to Holiday Craze
Priced at $35, the 1998 furby sold 1.8 million units that year. By the holiday season, demand skyrocketed. Scalpers resold them for over $300. Tiger Electronics, the manufacturer, couldn’t keep up.
| Year | Units Sold | Notable Event |
|---|---|---|
| 1998 | 1.8M | Toy Fair debut |
| 1999 | 14M | Peak popularity |
The Tech Behind the Trend
Hampton and Chung’s emoto-tronic furby responded to touch and speech. It even “learned” English over time. The NSA briefly banned it, fearing it could record secrets. Roger Shiffman, Tiger’s CEO, proved the fears unfounded.
By 1999, 14 million units sold. The toy’s legacy as a cultural icon was sealed.
Key Features of the Original Furby
Unlike any toy before, this one could learn, communicate, and develop a unique personality. Its blend of tech and charm made it a household name. Here’s what set it apart.
Adaptive Language Learning
Out of the box, it spoke only Furbish—a mix of playful sounds. Over time, it learned English through interaction. The 6502 microprocessor enabled this shift, using 42 Furbish words to create 300+ phrases.
For example:
- “Wee-tah-kah-loo-loo” meant “Tell me a joke.”
- “Doo-dah” signaled hunger.
| Furbish Phrase | English Meaning |
|---|---|
| U-nye-loo-loo | Let’s play! |
| Kah-may-may | Sing a song |
Infrared Social Skills
A first in the toy world, its infrared port let it “chat” with others. Two toys could giggle or swap phrases, mimicking real conversation. This feature sparked creativity in group play.
Personality That Grew on You
How you treated it shaped its traits. Gentle handling led to a sweet demeanor, while rough play made it grumpy. The 6502 microprocessor tracked interactions, making each toy one-of-a-kind.
Modern voice recognition pales in comparison. This was more than a toy—it was a friend that evolved with you.
How to Care for Your Vintage Furby
A well-maintained toy can fetch higher prices in the resale market. Whether you’re a collector or reliving childhood memories, these tips will help preserve its charm and functionality.
Proper Cleaning and Maintenance Techniques
Dust and dirt can harm sensors and fur. Use a soft brush with mild detergent for the coat. For electronic parts, lightly dab with a dry microfiber cloth.
Avoid harsh chemicals. They strip faux fur’s sheen and damage plastic. Here’s a quick guide:
| Component | Cleaning Method |
|---|---|
| Faux Fur | Soft brush + mild soap solution |
| Eyes/Sensors | Dry microfiber cloth |
Battery Replacement and Power Management
Original NiCd batteries need special disposal. Replace them with modern equivalents to avoid leaks. Follow these steps:
- Open the compartment with a screwdriver.
- Remove old batteries carefully.
- Insert new ones, matching polarity.
Factory resets restore default settings, boosting demand for resale.
Preserving the Faux Fur Coat
Store in a cool, dry place to prevent matting. Keep the original box—new-in-box models sell for 300% more. For long-term storage, wrap in acid-free tissue to avoid discoloration.
Regular brushing keeps the fur fluffy. Avoid direct sunlight; it fades colors over time.
Technical Specifications and Innovations
Behind its playful exterior lay groundbreaking engineering that set a new standard. The emoto-tronic furby combined a Sunplus SPC81A microcontroller (a 6502 variant) with Texas Instruments’ TSP50C04 voice chip—rare feats for a toy in 1998.
6502 Microprocessor Architecture
With just 80KB ROM, the 6502-powered brain handled language learning, movement, and sensors. Modern toys like the new furby use Bluetooth, but this relied on clever coding. The single motor drove eyelids, ears, mouth, and tilt mechanics—all via cams.
Voice Synthesis Technology
The Texas Instruments chip used LPC coding, limiting phrases but creating a distinct, quirky voice. Visit any fan page today, and you’ll hear nostalgia in those glitchy tones. Later models expanded vocabulary, but the charm stayed.
Sensory Input Systems
Touch, sound, and light sensors worked in a hierarchy: touch > sound > light. A gentle poke triggered more reactions than shouts or shadows. Hackers later exploited these inputs for circuit-bending, modifying sounds—sometimes raising resale price.
Understanding the Original Furby’s Market Value
Collectors worldwide compete for rare models, driving prices into the thousands. The resale market thrives on scarcity, with special editions like the Millennium Furby selling for $4,500 in 2023. Condition and packaging amplify value—new-in-box (NIB) units often triple in price.
Factors Affecting Collector Pricing
Three elements dictate worth: rarity, condition, and provenance. Limited runs, like the Hi-C or Kids Cuisine promos, fetch $200–$520. Regional variants (e.g., Swedish Furbee) add 20% premiums. eBay trends show a 15% annual price hike since 2018.
| Edition | Average Price (USD) | Rarity Tier |
|---|---|---|
| Millennium Furby | 4,500 | S |
| Furby Angel | 1,200 | A |
| Tie-Dye | 600 | B |
Most Sought-After Color Variations
Snowball (white), Bandit (black mask), and Tie-Dye patterns lead demand. Japan’s pastel releases sell for 800 dollars overseas. Counterfeits flood the market—check for holographic Tiger Electronics logos to verify authenticity.
To sell furby successfully, focus on unboxed mint-condition units. Rare colors and collaborations (e.g., McDonald’s promos) attract deep-pocketed buyers. Always cross-check serial numbers against collector databases.
Original Furby vs. Modern Generations
Tech has evolved, but some classics still outshine modern versions. The 1998 model and 2016 Furby Connect represent different eras of interactive toys. One relies on mechanical ingenuity, while the other embraces app connectivity.
Comparing 1998 Model to Furby Connect
The new Furby boasts 600+ phrases, dwarfing the original’s 42 Furbish responses. But collectors often prefer the analog charm of tactile interactions over Bluetooth dependency.
| Feature | 1998 Model | Furby Connect |
|---|---|---|
| Interaction | Mechanical sensors | App-controlled |
| Voice Options | 42 phrases | 600+ responses |
| Lifespan | 125-year claim | 5-7 years average |
Durability tests show the original’s models withstand decades of play. The Connect’s rechargeable battery degrades faster than AA replacements.
What Makes the Original Special
Security researchers flagged the Furby Connect for its open Bluetooth protocol. Unlike the self-contained 1998 version, it could potentially expose user data.
- No firmware updates needed
- Works without smartphones
- Develops unique personality organically
Nostalgia plays a key role. Adults who grew up with the first generation often seek its distinct voice and tactile feedback. Modern iterations can’t replicate that emotional connection.
Building an Original Furby Collection
Rare editions of this iconic toy can turn into prized possessions. From limited-run collaborations to regional variants, certain models command jaw-dropping prices. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, knowing what to look for is half the battle.
Identifying Rare and Valuable Editions
The McDonald’s Shelby (2000 UK) and Gizmo crossover are among the rarest. These editions often sell for $500–$1,200. Look for telltale signs like unique packaging or co-branded logos.
Here’s a quick checklist to verify authenticity:
- Check PCB dates—authentic models have 1998–2002 stamps.
- Inspect seam marks; fakes often have uneven stitching.
- Compare voice chips—the Texas Instruments logo should be visible.
Where to Find Authentic Vintage Furbys
Trusted sellers include Heritage Auctions and specialized toy consignments. These place often provide certificates of authenticity. Avoid sketchy online listings—always request detailed photos.
The *fresh new look* rereleases differ from vintage models. They lack the original’s mechanical quirks but appeal to modern collectors. For serious buyers, professional authentication services like ToyWorth are worth the fee.
Restoration ethics matter. Over-cleaning or replacing parts can devalue a piece. Aim for preservation, not perfection, to maintain historical integrity.
The Enduring Legacy of the First Furby
Few toys have left such a lasting mark on pop culture. Over 25 years later, its cameos in 30+ TV shows and films prove its staying power. MIT even studied its impact, calling it a source of child-robot interaction research.
Today, museums like MoMA and the Smithsonian showcase it as a pioneer in the world of interactive tech. Hasbro’s 2023 reboot nods to nostalgia while adapting to modern play. Yet collectors still hunt vintage models, betting on rising value.
Its legacy? A bridge between analog charm and smart devices—proof that some tech feels timeless.
