Abstract: An interactive apparatus, the apparatus including: a control device for controlling the interactive apparatus; input device(s) for providing input(s) and output device(s) for providing audio and/or visual outputs, wherein the control device is configured for receiving media and providing the media to the output device(s) to provide audio and/or visual outputs associated with the media; a communication device for receiving a communication input for processing by the control device, the communication device including one or more of: a microphone, a camera, and a communication interface for communication with electronic or computer devices over a wireless communication protocol; wherein the communication device is only permitted to be activated by an actuation device being placed into close proximity to or physical contact with the interactive apparatus.

Abstract: An interactive apparatus including a housing, at least one input device, and a control device. The housing includes a light source, a speaker, a front face including a display screen, a rear face configured to permit light from the light source to pass, and a bottom face. The control device is configured for receiving media and controlling one or more of the light source, speaker and display screen to produce output in association with the media. The apparatus is configured to be stood on a surface in a first mode in which the bottom face rests on the surface such that the display screen is directed in a first direction, and a second mode defined by the front face resting on the surface, and for which the control device is configured to dim, or turn off, the display screen each time the apparatus is placed in the second mode.