Star Wars: Episode 7 hits theaters this December, which of course means it's time for the toy parade to start marching in. But none of the inevitable tie-in figures, plushies, and other paraphernalia will hold a candle to a real-life, working replica of BB-8 - the adorable android first introduced in the film's teaser trailer. And according to an article on CNN Money, you can buy one for yourself this Friday.
The Force Awakens director J.J. Abrams wasn't lying when he said BB-8 is a practical effect at May’s Star Wars Celebration back in May, as the replica (designed by Sphero) uses a series of magnets to move around while its head remains affixed to the top of its rolling body. BB-8 responds to voice commands via a connected smartphone app, and will get around an hour of playtime on a single charge.
The BB-8 replica sits at around 4.4 inches and will retail for $149.99 at Disney, Apple, and Best Buy stores, as well as on Amazon. It sounds expensive, but it's actually not a bad deal when you compare it to other, similarly sized RC cars and other Star Wars toys - heck, a Lego AT-AT retails for $109.99, and it doesn't even have a built-in motor. Plus, it's incredible to know that the special effects in the new Star Wars movie aren't just real; you can actually own one for yourself.
