Google is allowing users to embrace their inner Jedi or Sith, jumping on the Star Wars bandwagon before the new sequel opens next month.
The company introduced a tool that lets users customize the appearance of their Google apps ahead of the Dec. 18 release of Star Wars: Episode VII -- The Force Awakens. Depending on whether the user chooses the dark side or the light side of the force, Google Maps comes with an X-wing or a TIE fighter as a cursor, while YouTube's progress bar is a lightsaber. More changes will come ahead of opening night, Clay Bavor, head of Google's product management, said in a blog post.
Google is joining companies from toy-makers to game developers seeking to benefit from what is set to be the year's biggest debut. The seventh installment of the Star Wars saga and the first since Walt Disney Co. acquired franchise owner Lucasfilm Ltd. in 2012 could be the all-time U.S. box office champ with $762 million in ticket sales, topping Avatar, according to an estimate by film researcher Boxoffice.com.