Coding

Droid Inventor Kit from littleBits, Disney and Lucasfilm Channels Star Wars

• By Sri Ravipati
• 08/31/17

Ahead of the Force Friday II global event this week, littleBits released a new kit that gives kids step-by-step instructions on how to build a droid fit for the Star Wars universe.

The Disney-backed startup develops coding kits for kids. Created in collaboration with Lucasfilm, the new Droid Inventor Kit explains how to create a functional R2 Unit straight out of the movie from scratch using littleBits coding blocks.

A demo of the kit.

Retailed at $99.95, it comes with:

• Six “Bits” or modular circuits, 20 parts to build the actual droid;
• Step-by-step instructions and how-to videos; and
• Three sticker sheets to personalize the droid.

In addition, the kit includes a free companion app (for iOS and Android). Users can go on 17 Star Wars-themed in-app missions with the droid, leveling up as their droid and programming skills advance. The idea is to inspire kids to become creators, not just consumers of the tech they use, the company said in a statement.

“We’ve created a gender-inclusive product that celebrates kids’ own self-expression and ingenuity, while showcasing the same characteristics of imagination, grit and invention that are embodied in the Star Wars franchise,” said Ayah Bdeir, founder and CEO of littleBits, in the statement.

“The littleBits Droid Inventor Kit has the elements to be one of this year's hot toys," said Jim Silver, CEO and editor-in-chief of TTPM, a toy review site for parents, in the statement. “It combines the huge fandom of Star Wars, STEAM, and tons of creative fun. Its open-ended design and deep engagement will be particularly appealing for both kids and parents, ensuring long-lasting interest through repeat play.”

The kits is now available through Walmart, Apple Store, Amazon and littleBits.