Globe has been tapped by Sphero as one of its Philippine distributors for the BB-8 Star Wars app-enabled droid. The special edition robot was created in partnership with Disney and Star Wars as the miniature counterpart of BB-8, the newest droid set to make its onscreen debut in Star Wars: The Force Awakens.
Advertised as more of a companion rather than just a mere toy, BB-8 is controllable using a smartphone and Sphero’s accompanying app. It’s able to automatically roam around a 30-meter radius from the tethered device, can be controlled manually using the in-app interface, and can also respond to certain voice commands.
Just like its namesake, BB-8 can “project” holograms through augmented reality on your phone’s screen. These holograms are either iconic scenes from the Star Wars franchise or are recorded through the phone’s camera.
As for battery life, it takes two hours to juice up the droid for one hour of play time. Finally, the main body is waterproof so it can easily wade through shallow puddles. Take note that it won’t survive a dip in the pool, though.
Globe is currently accepting pre-orders for the BB-8 at their Gen 3 store in Greenbelt 4, Makati City, with sale price currently pegged at PHP 12,499.75. Globe and Sphero executives confirmed that there will be a limited supply during launch, so if you’re a hardcore Star Wars fan (and have some cash to spare), better reserve yours now.
Globe is also doing live demos of the BB-8 at the Gen 3 Store in Greenbelt 4, Makati City; as well as at their Shangri-La Plaza hub.
Specifications:
- iOS and Android compatible
- Top speed of 4.5mph (7ft/s)
- Durable polycarbonate shell
- Bluetooth Smart BLE connection (100 foot range)
- Inductive charging (over one hour of play on a full charge)
- Free App: BB-8 App-Enabled Droid powered by Sphero available through iTunes or Google Play
- Internal guidance system includes a gyroscope and accelerometer.
- Height: 11.4cm; Width: 7.3cm / Weight: around 200g
Included in the box:
- BB-8 App-Enabled Droid
- Induction Charging Base
- MicroUSB Cable
- Quick Start Guide
- Legal Guide