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Disney to unveil latest Star Wars character via augmented reality app next month

Star Wars: The Last Jedi is still a few months away from hitting theaters, but BB-8-happy fans are about to get a glimpse at a new character as a part of a three-day marketing rollout of toys and products inspired by the film.

Force Friday II promotional event runs from Sept. 1 through Sept. 3

Star Wars fans may get a glimpse of the next BB-8 via a promotional app next month that promises an augmented reality experience. (Associated Press)

Star Wars: The Last Jedi is still a few months away from hitting theaters, but BB-8-happy fans are about to get a glimpse at a new character as a part of a three-day marketing rollout of toys and products inspired by the film.

The Walt Disney Company said Thursday that the global event, dubbed Force Friday II, will feature an augmented reality treasure hunt called Find the Force.

Fans can download an app and use it to find logos at various retailers and the app will then unlock augmented reality character experiences.

In Canada, participating retailers include Best Buy, The Hudson's Bay Company, Walmart and Toys R Us.

Using the Star Wars app in 20,000 participating locations in 30 countries, fans can snap photos of the Find the Force symbol to find old favorites, like Admiral Ackbar, and discover a new character from The Last Jedi too.

Force Friday II runs from Sept. 1 through Sept. 3. The Last Jedi blasts off on Dec. 15.

With files from CBC News