"Star Wars" smartphones will be officially carried by Japan's mobile carrier Softbank, thereby establishing the Japanese attachment to the franchise. It is not surprising for "Star Wars" is heavily influenced by Japanese culture.

Japanese "Star Wars" fans make up a substantial fan base for the franchise, which explains why "The Force Awakens" had an extended movie trailer specifically targeting Japanese fans last year. Japan also ranked third in overall box-office ticket sales for the movie, marking them as a vital market for future "Star Wars" movie.

What makes Japanese resonate to Star Wars?

"Star Wars" creator George Lucas is a big fan of Akiro Kurosawas' "The Hidden Fortress," which greatly influenced the Star Wars anthology. The word "Jedi" was derived from "jidaigeki," which means period drama and inspired by sword-wielding, peacekeeping Japanese samurais.

The spiritual elements of the Force are similar to "Bushido." Even Darth Vader's armor is reminiscent of the ones worn by Japanese warlords. Evidently, the Japanese Force is strong with the franchise according to Japan Times.

What are the "Star Wars" Smartphones Specs?

For the upcoming "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story," Softbank showcases its "Star Wars" smartphones that comes in two color options. Consumers will have to choose allegiance, the dark or the light force. Evidently, the smartphone design and features are closely tied-in to anything Star Wars as reported in The Verge. The specifications are listed below.

  • 5.3 inches display with 1080p resolution
  • Snapdragon 820 processor
  • 22.6MP camera
  • 3,000mAh battery capacity
  • 3GB Ram
  • 32GB storage, expandable via microSD clot
  • 7.6mm thick
  • 155 g weight

What makes the "Star Wars" Smartphones Unique?

The Softbank phones have the Force-aligned Android 6.0 skins carrying themes of both light and dark. It also features live wallpapers that users can choose between X-Wing and TIE fighter.

There is a built in movie player app that allows users access to "The Force Awakens" until year 2020. Other "Star Wars" apps included the themed alarm clock, emojis, and ringtones.

The smartphones also have pre-loaded "Star Wars: The Force Collection" card game equipped with a code for access to a gold card pack ticket. Lastly, consumers will also get five exclusive "Rogue One" metal figurines.

The "Star Wars" smartphones are available beginning December 2, but preorders can now be made.

Topics Star Wars, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story