Update (9/4 7:30am): Now available for pre-order at Amazon and Best Buy.
Ever since the first Star Wars: The Force Awakens trailer hit during Thanksgiving weekend last year, there has been one character that has stood out amongst the rest. Everyone fell in love the BB-8 droid and now it’s coming to your living room with smartphone-connected controls.
This super cute little droid from Sphero is controlled by iOS and Android apps. It can be set to patrol your living room or respond to directions via voice or remote control. The former of which is pretty cool – the BB-8 will wander around a room prowling for enemies. Just the like in the trailer, it bombs its way around quickly changing directions while following your commands.
Sphero has included Bluetooth connectivity with 30 meters of range, it uses inductive charging while its perched atop its neat little stand. Gyroscopic propulsion pushes the BB-8 forward while it scoots around. Probably the coolest feature of all is the ability to record and send your own Princess Leia-esque hologram messages.
But don’t just think of this as another toy. Sphero plans on continually upgrading the software to enhance the personality and functions of the BB-8. It comes with some pre-loaded actions but it will continue to adapt over time as it learns more about you and its space.
Availability has yet to be announced, but Sphero is dropping hints that BB-8 may hit online shelves tomorrow for Force Friday. It has actually already popped up on some UK online retailers. We’ll have full coverage of all the deals, news and products as well here at gadgetnewsonline.
More New Toys of the Day:
- Polaroid’s latest pocket-sized Snap cam instantly prints photos with no ink
- Neato details its new iOS/Android connected robotic smart vac
- Leica partners with an Italian auto designer to create a marvelous set of limited edition binoculars
- SmartHalo adds simple smartphone-connected navigation to your bike’s handlebars
- Logitech’s new Artemis Wireless Gaming Headsets focus on features and compatibility
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Very cool.though if it is like the app-controlled balls at the Brain Store I can’t get them to stay a straight line half the time…but pretty slick!