Sphero’s original BB-8 App-Enabled Droid is a discontinued toy, not a current Sphero product: Sphero says it no longer manufactures or sells it, and its compatible legacy apps stopped being available for download on October 1, 2021. The robot can still be programmed with Sphero Edu, but that is not the same as restoring the original app’s full experience. Anyone considering a secondhand unit should verify app access and charging function before buying.
What the Sphero BB-8 toy was designed to do
When Sphero introduced its Star Wars BB-8 App-Enabled Droid, it was meant to feel more like a character than a conventional remote-control car. At launch, its advertised features included smart-device driving, autonomous patrol, voice response, and augmented-reality “holographic” video. StarWars.com’s 2015 report described these as product features; they should be understood as launch-era capabilities, not a guarantee that a new owner can access every feature today. StarWars.com’s account of how Sphero created the toy quotes Sphero director of product Allen Richardson: “Our BB-8 is obviously a little bit different than a RC or typical toy. BB-8 can communicate with your smart device. It has a companion app that goes along with it so you will control him from your phone — it’s basically like a remote control, but so much more.”
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
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Original BB-8 by Sphero (No Droid Trainer) | $169.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
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Sphero R201ROW Star Wars R2D2 Appge Controlled Droide White/Blue | $160.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
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caseling Hard CASE for Sphero Star Wars BB-8 Droid or BB-9E App-Enabled Droid | $15.98 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
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Sphero R2-Q5 App-Enabled Droid | $369.86 | Buy on Amazon |
Control, patrol, voice, and holograms
The original concept paired app-based steering with animated movement and droid personality. Autonomous behavior let BB-8 move without continuous manual steering; voice interaction and AR video added character-driven effects. Best Buy’s original product listing also described these features, but its feature list does not establish that the discontinued app can still be downloaded or set up on a particular phone. Best Buy identifies the original product as model R001USA.
What works now: the legacy-app limitation
Sphero’s current legacy-products information says it no longer manufactures or sells BB-8 and that the compatible legacy apps stopped being available for download on October 1, 2021. Sphero says BB-8 can still be programmed using Sphero Edu. That is a narrower, programming-focused option; do not assume it reproduces the original companion app’s remote-control, voice, or holographic features. Sphero’s legacy-products page is the key current source for this status.
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#1 Best Overall
- BB-8 app-enabled Droid with a tough and waterproof polycarbonate shell
- Bluetooth Smart connection allowing Gyroscopic propulsion to a 30m range
- Induction charging stand providing 60 minute battery life
- Compatible with the Force Band for control via gestures
- Free iOS & Android compatible apps; allow Adaptive Personality and view holographic recordings
Specific present-day compatibility with a buyer’s iOS or Android device is not established here. Before paying, confirm that the app and functions you want are available on your own device and can be used with the actual robot. Retailer descriptions of Apple and Android control reflect the product’s intended setup, not proof of current app availability. A computer-control option is likewise not established.
What to check before buying a used BB-8
Since Sphero does not sell new units and its warranty does not cover legacy robot purchases from third-party retailers or resellers, a used listing should be assessed as a used electronic toy. Ask the seller for a demonstration or clear answers to these checks:
Rank #2
- Authentic Movement - Drive R2-D2 with your device, go from bipod to tripod stances, or trigger emotive waddles.
- Holographic Simulation - Explore the Star Wars galaxy, roam iconic ship interiors, and more.
- Droid to Droid Experience - Watch R2-D2 interact with other Sphero Star Wars App-Enabled Droids.
- Watch With Me - View films from the Star Wars saga with R2-D2 reacting by your side.
- Integrated Speaker & LEDs - Sounds come right from R2-D2, and front and rear lights are fully functional.
- Identity: Confirm it is the original Sphero BB-8 App-Enabled Droid, model R001USA, rather than a different Sphero droid or a lookalike.
- App access: Verify the intended app or Sphero Edu workflow on the device you plan to use. Do not rely on a retailer’s historical compatibility listing as evidence that setup will work now.
- Battery and charging: Ask the seller to show that it charges and operates, and whether the battery continues to hold charge. Battery condition can vary from unit to unit.
- Included charging equipment: Best Buy lists an inductive charging base and power adapter as original included items. Check that both are present in the specific listing and function properly.
- Physical condition: Inspect the shell and head for damage, and ask for a return option if the robot does not match the listing or fails to operate.
- Return terms: Check the seller’s stated return window and conditions before purchase; individual listing terms are not established by the product sources.
Best Buy’s customer-review summary surfaces complaints about size, control, sound quality, and battery life. These are reported customer experiences, not findings from hands-on testing for this article, and they do not establish the condition of any particular used unit.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Age, surfaces, and care
The user manual says the toy is “not suitable for use by children under 8 years of age.” It also says BB-8 works best on smooth, flat, hard surfaces. Charging requires adult supervision, and the manual cautions users not to open the shell or attempt non-routine repairs. Follow the manual supplied with the unit for its operating and charging guidance. Sphero’s product-support site is the manufacturer source for product information.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- Compatible with iOS and Android. FREE APP: Sphero Star Wars App-Enabled Droids app available via iTunes or Google Play.
- "Durable plastic housing."
- LED lights Built-in speaker. 3D accelerometer
- "Bluetooth connection (range of 100 feet or 30 meters). USB charging (over an hour of play with full charge)."
- Dimensions: Height: 17 cm / Width: 11 cm / Weight: 370 g.
Rank #3
- PERFECT FIT: Uniquely designed Hard Case to fit perfectly your Sphero Star Wars BB-8 Droid / BB-9E App-Enabled Droid
- 100% SAFE: Water Resistance, Shockproof & Dust-proof to protect your device safely and securely With easy grip handle
- SUPER CONVENIENT: This case is lightweight and compact with specifically designed mesh pocket for small Accessories
- CASE ONLY: For travel and storage (device and accessories are sold separately) Material: High-Quality EVA, Color: Black
- PRODUCT DIMENSIONS: Outer 8.8" L x 5.9" W 4" H - CLICK the orange button to order yours now!
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
