The Force Awakens! Sphero's universal Windows 10 app for BB-8 is here

Timing is always important and Orbotix, the company behind Sphero, have just released the universal app for Windows 10 to control their BB-8 Droid from Star Wars: The Force Awakens!

Although Android and iOS had the app first, we always knew a version for Windows was on the way, and now you can control the adorable BB-8 from your Windows PC, Surface and Phone!

From the app description:

"BB-8 is playful, personable, and true to the Star Wars™ galaxy. His unique traits begin to shine the second he is awake. Based on your interactions, BB-8 will show a range of expressions and even perk up when you give voice commands. It's now possible to explore the galaxy with your own trusty Astromech Droid by your side. BB-8 is more than a toy - it's your companion."

The features for the app include:

  • DRIVE Slide your finger on the driving pad to guide your Droid. BB-8 will go wherever you point and hold, and he'll even react to collisions. If you want to see more of his personality, enter the droid commander, choose an icon, and BB-8 will show off a range of expressions.
  • PATROL Tap into Patrol to send BB-8 off on his own. His autonomous behavior allows him to move around, get familiar with your space, and investigate the surroundings. Tap the play button to get BB-8 on the move.
  • HOLOGRAPHIC MESSAGING No Droid is complete without holographic messaging. Now you can make your own thanks to BB-8. Record a video and BB-8 will transform it into a virtual hologram.

We have our own BB-8 in the house and will be looking to do a hands-on later today. For now, you can go and download the app for yourself or run to your nearest store to pick up the $150 droid to take with you to the premier of Star Wars: The Force Awakens (don't worry, we won't tell anyone that you did).

Nee more? Make sure you check out our Star Wars gift guide for more ideas!

Download BB-8 App Enabled Droid for Windows 10 and Mobile

$150 at Best Buy $150 at Amazon $150 at BB&B

Thanks, Simon, for the tip!

Tap into the Force with these 12 great Star Wars gifts for the Jedi in your life

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Daniel Rubino
Editor-in-chief

Daniel Rubino is the Editor-in-chief of Windows Central. He is also the head reviewer, podcast co-host, and analyst. He has been covering Microsoft since 2007, when this site was called WMExperts (and later Windows Phone Central). His interests include Windows, laptops, next-gen computing, and watches. He has been reviewing laptops since 2015 and is particularly fond of 2-in-1 convertibles, ARM processors, new form factors, and thin-and-light PCs. Before all this tech stuff, he worked on a Ph.D. in linguistics, watched people sleep (for medical purposes!), and ran the projectors at movie theaters because it was fun.