I’m interested in more nerdy gimmicks like the limited-edition PlayStation tracker.

To mark its 10th anniversary, PlayStation China has collaborated with Xiaomi to release a special limited-edition Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Pro. This version comes with a unique watch band displaying the iconic PlayStation controller icons. Unfortunately, gamers in the U.S. may feel a pang of jealousy as these exclusive launches typically stay within Asia and don’t make their way to Western markets.

A Weibo post (via Android Authority) mentions that one fortunate user who shares the post will receive the special edition box. It is likely that Sony will also make this limited-edition fitness tracker available to other fans in China.

Details about how the Sony-themed Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Pro differs from the regular version remain unclear, apart from the striking watch strap. It is possible that it comes with unique software that can connect to your PS5 or offer Sony-themed watch faces.

Given that this 10th-anniversary release is specific to China, and Xiaomi’s trackers don’t always have a global release, it is unlikely that this special edition will reach international markets. Plus, for a $100 fitness tracker, it may not offer enough features to tempt die-hard PlayStation fans away from their current Apple or Android watches.

So why cover news about a device that most people won’t have the chance to buy? Well, it provides an opportunity to address a long-standing issue that has disappointed many enthusiasts over the years: the unavailability of “Special Edition” phones, watches, and other branded accessories in the United States.

Licensing fees prevent us from flaunting our geekiness

Limited editions of Android phones are surprisingly common. OnePlus, for instance, has catered to major nerd fandoms with models like the Star Wars-themed OnePlus 5T, Avengers-themed OnePlus 6, and even a Nord 2 for old-school Pac-Man fans.

This trend has waned in recent years. While Samsung introduced a Galaxy Note 10 Plus Star Wars Edition and a Galaxy S20 Plus BTS Edition, recent generations like the Galaxy S25 have left nerds wanting more. Nevertheless, Chinese brands like TECNO and POCO have unveiled Bumblebee Edition and Iron Man Edition phones in January 2025, keeping the trend alive.

Why do these special edition phones rarely make it to the U.S.? In a 2022 rant about limited-edition phones, it was discussed how the few brands that can break into the heavily Apple and Samsung-dominated U.S. tech market struggle with the licensing fees. For some reason, selling an Iron Man phone in China is feasible, but it’s nearly impossible in the U.S.

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In an ideal world, we would have more tech products — or at least official accessories — that let us showcase our geeky side, whether as a gamer, comic book enthusiast, sci-fi aficionado, or any other type of fan. While typical smartwatches may not have enough space to display unique designs, an exclusive strap and watch faces like Sony’s PlayStation-themed band for Xiaomi could easily fill that void.

If Sony can collaborate with Xiaomi to create a PlayStation-themed watch band, why can’t Apple or Samsung do the same? Both brands offer a variety of watch straps in different colors, but there is a lack of official products with such brand synergy. This concept could extend to other major brands with dedicated fan bases who would eagerly embrace limited-edition tech products.

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While phone cases featuring favorite characters are easy to find, the same cannot be said for watch bands. It would be great to see more bands designed for fun alongside those focusing on style, fitness, or comfort.

We’re not looking for something overly kitschy or loud, but imagine having other nerdy logos on your smartwatch instead of PlayStation buttons, like the Rebel Alliance crest or Starfleet badge. This could add a unique touch to your smartwatch, and if needed, you could switch to a more fashionable or subtle band for formal occasions.

Currently, the top priority is ensuring that watch bands are safe and non-toxic. However, offering nerds more fun and exciting options for watch bands could motivate us to try something new and upgrade from our old bands.