7 tech companies embracing Star Wars mania

Written by Patrick Hechinger
Published on Dec. 11, 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 seven tech companies that chose wisely with their products (Star Wars mascara not included): 

 

Bit Wars: The Circuit Awakens by 

NYC-based littlebits, creator of kits of colorful components to make building electronic devices easy for kids, is running a Star Wars themed competition. Contestants need to build a Star Wars themed robot or gadget and send in a video of their masterpiece in action before December 19, for a chance to win a trip to the Disney World Star Wars Park. Littlebits is also hosting a Star Wars party at its pop up shop in Soho on December 12. 

 

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. 

Additional reporting by Fergal Gallagher

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

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