Branching further into the app world, Sesame Workshop has launched Elmo Calls, a new app that enables kids to call Elmo over the phone and receive video calls, audio calls and voicemail.

Parents can also choose from eight themed call packs that allow them to activate calls for their kids anytime they want or for special times of the day.

In addition to Elmo Calls, which is available on the iPhone and iPod touch, Sesame has updated its Elmo Loves ABCs app for iPad, which was launched in April and designed to boost early childhood literacy skills.

New customization features allow users to add photos and videos, and parents can now track how their child is doing. Additional features let children discover new game objects, videos and coloring pages for each letter as well as seasonal content such as holiday-themed art for the apps’ Hide-n-Seek game.