The next generation of Tamagotchi, called "Tamagotchi Connection" will return to the United States in August 2004, following recent launches in Japan and Europe.

© Bandai

Infrared technology allows Tamagotchi Connection owners to become friends with other Tamagotchi owners and store a "friend list" of up to 50 friends. Once an adult, the Tamagotchi can connect with a compatible Tamagotchi friend and have a second-generation Tamagotchi that the owner can care for and nurture into an adult to create a possible third and fourth generation. With a larger display and better graphics than the original version, Tamagotchi Connection owners can care for their pet by selecting various controls to feed it food or a snack, play games with it, clean up after its messes and give it medicine when it becomes sick. The new Tamagotchi Connection will debut at retail on August 15, 2004 at a suggested retail price of $14.99.

To celebrate the return of Tamagotchi, Bandai America will release special unopened packages of Tamagotchi Connection and Tamagotchi Connection T-shirts for bid on eBay. The Tamagotchi Connection packaging and T-shirts will be specially autographed by celebrities from film, television, sports and fashion. The series of 10-day auctions will begin on Monday, June 21 with new items being added on June 22 and June 23. All proceeds will benefit the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation.

Tamagotchi first exploded in popularity when Bandai launched the product in 1996, selling more than 40 million units worldwide and 12 million units in the United States and Canada. During its peak, 15 Tamagotchi units were sold every minute in the U.S. and Canada. The new Tamagotchi Connection sold out in two days in Japan.

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