A realistic character that grows and evolves

Sphero, known for its app-controlled, ball-shaped smart toys operated by smartphones and tablets, has produced the droid BB-8™, which has garnered a large following among Star Wars fans and beyond. It is now available in Japan.

Getting started is simple: download the dedicated app from the App Store or Google Play onto your smartphone or tablet, turn on your device's Bluetooth, and launch the app. Remove BB-8™ from its charging base, bring your device close to BB-8™, and the connection is complete.

You can interactively control its movement from your smartphone, enjoy its responses to voice commands, have it explore its surroundings by tapping 'Patrol,' or customize its movements as you wish.

A toy that develops its own personality

Ross Ingram, a representative from Sphero who visited Japan for the product launch, explained, "The holographic message feature is something we really want users to try with BB-8™. Tap the message in the app, record yourself or a friend, and when you're done, tap the play icon and point BB-8™'s camera at it to play back the newly created message (video). It's best to place BB-8™ on the floor and play it back directly in front of you."

With features mirroring the BB-8™ seen in the movie, such as voice control that recognizes speech and holographic messages using AR (Augmented Reality), BB-8™'s personality becomes more distinct the more you play with it. It promises to be a loyal companion for exploring the Star Wars galaxy.

BB-8™
Price: ¥21,384
Compatible OS: iOS 8 or later, Android 4.4.2+
Compatible Devices (iOS): iPhone 4S or later, iPad (3rd generation) or later, iPad mini, iPod touch (5th generation) or later
Compatible Devices (Android): Devices with BLE (Bluetooth 4.0) and rear camera
Dimensions: Approx. H10 x Ø8 cm (Approx. H12.5 cm with charging base)
Weight: Approx. 200g (Approx. 330g with charging base)
Battery Life: Approx. 60 minutes (on full charge)
Speed: Max speed 2.2 m/s
http://www.sphero.jp/starwars/