This is part of a project looking at novel interaction possibilities through so called internet toys. The project was developed by one of my new PhD students Kate Lund as part of the learning process for Widgets and because my colleague Reuben had bought a Internet Rabbit some time ago and its been gathering dust whilst we thought of an interesting project.  Basically in its current form it provides a mobile WidSets Widget for sending messages to or controlling (flashing its lights or waggling the ears) your own, or someone else’s, Nabaztag Internet Rabbit as shown in the following video.

These internet toys are intriguing as the are purely a fun item but I know there is a huge community around these rabbits and my kids love sending messages to me through it. It also shows given the right tools and suitable APIs mobile widgets can produce new mash-ups and tap into existing communities very quickly. Finally, I know that many readers wont have a Nabaztag but for those who do I hope the widget provides a means for discovering your inner rabbit.