Mattel Enters Techie Age with 'Geek Barbie'

Although it's unlikely the popular toy company will soon be unveiling an IT supervisor He-Man, Mattel has instead made one big step towards the 21st century by unveiling its latest hip new toy: a Computer Engineer Barbie.

In the past, we've known Barbie not for her smarts, but mostly her curvy, '50s-inspired looks. And let's face it, Barby hasn't done much more than lounge by the pool with Ken, or perhaps bake a few brownies for her supermodel friends. But now, it seems now that Barbie's maker, Mattel, will be making an intellectual quantum leap for the doll when it unveils its Computer Engineer lass in the next year.

Global Vote Behind New Look

Inspiration for the new doll came via popular vote, called the 2009 Barbie Global Career Survey. Also destined for release by way of democracy is a Bride Barbie, Ballerina Barbie, and Burger Chef Barbie.

In a statement earlier this week, Mattel noted that it had been working closely with real engineers to produce a modern and realistic look for its next version of the iconic doll. "To create an authentic look, Barbie designers worked closely with the Society of Women Engineers and the National Academy of Engineering to develop the wardrobe and accessories for Computer Engineer Barbie," said a Mattel representative. (Source: tgdaily.com)

The new Barbie will sport a smartphone, laptop case, watch, and for chatting with friends and colleagues on-the-go, a Bluetooth earpiece. (Source: theregister.co.uk)

New Barbie Role Models Abound

In a further nod to the erosion of gender barriers in the workplace, Mattel has also this week released a News Anchor Barbie.

Perhaps now young girls will pretend-interview one another about their remarkable new bridge and building designs rather than chat about who's dress is prettiest.

Unfortunately, at this time it's not known how wide was the margin of victory for Computer Engineer Barbie over other candidates.