The dream of having a real R2 unit of your own has gotten a little closer. This voice activated R2-D2 responds to over 40 voice commands and has an infra-red sensor that allows the droid to follow you around. It can also be set to detect motion, turning R2 into a room sentry that sounds an alarm when a secured area is invaded. The unit also replays sounds and dialog from “Star Wars” movies, answers yes-or-no questions, and dances while playing the cantina theme.
Unfortunately, at six lbs and 15″(h) x 7.5″(w) x 10.5″(l), it’s only about half the size of our favorite robot. However, this R2 does have the lights, swiveling dome top, and distinctive happy and sad sounds that mimic the real thing. He’s even programmed for an occasional “bad mood” (a simple command of, “R2, behave yourself!” snaps him out of it).
Buy it for $119.95 at Hammacher Schlemmer.