6 tech companies embracing Star Wars mania

by Patrick Hechinger
December 7, 2015

We're still a week away from the Star Wars: The Force Awakens premiere and advertisements for the long-awaited blockbuster are more prevalent than ever. The saga's newest installment is bringing forth a bevy of film merchandise, so we picked six tech companies that chose wisely with their products (Star Wars mascara not included): 

The BB-8 Droid by Sphero

It's impossible not to start with the bionic ball that has already become the most recognizable piece of The Force Awakens. After participating in the Disney Accelerator, Sphero designed the droid used in the movie and has since released a mini-sized toy. The BB-8, which sells for $149, sold out almost immediately but there's still a chance you can order one in time for Christmas

 

The Uncommon Force by Stance Socks & Zambezi

Nothing says Star Wars like a fresh pair of Yoda socks. LA-based creative agency Zambezi helped Stance Socks take it to the next level with "force" controlled e-commerce. With the help of your computer webcam, you can navigate through the different sock options with the flick of the wrist. Just remember to use your newfound powers for good. 

 

StarBnb by Viget

Looking for a romantic getaway in Endor or a winter trip to Tatooine? StarBnb has some options you may want to check out. Executed to hilariously accurate detail, digital agency Viget's AirBnb parody is wonderful, mindless entertainment. The company nailed every detail of the travel site including the brutally honest reviews. 

 

Hour of Code with Disney 

It's obvious Disney is pretty invested in this flick. On December 7 they held a Star Wars Hour of Code event to help kids learn how to code as part of Computer Science Education Week. R2-D2, Chewbacca, Disney Execs and several Disney Channel stars were on hand as kids used Code.org's Star Wars tutorial.

 

Awaken the Force by Google

Do you believe in honesty and mercy or aggression and power? Google is dividing the online universe to either the Light Side or Dark Side with their new profile themes. Once enabled, your Google apps will all have a slight Star Wars twist. But this isn't the only thing Google has done — go to their search bar, type in "A long time ago in a galaxy far far away," and enjoy. 

 

Star Wars Google Cardboard Viewer by Verizon

Adding to their already impressive involvement, Google teamed up with Verizon to give away free Star Wars themed Google Cardboard. Buyers can choose from Kylo Ren, R2-D2, Stormtroopers or BB-8 and view nine different 360 degree video shorts. 

Have a tip for us or know of a company that deserves coverage? Email us via [email protected]

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