3D Robotics has launched the world’s first smart drone – the 3DR Solo. The name already implies what the drone is capable of doing. Equipped with multiple tools and pre-set commands, the Solo simplifies drone videography.
The 3DR Solo has a couple of features to automate drone videography, and includes an optional gimbal made specifically to hold a GoPro. The console-inspired controller also has a mount for the user’s smartphone or tablet. iOS and Android devices can install the 3DR’s Solo app and this enables the device to act as a footage receiver as well as a control hub for both the drone and the GoPro camera – a feature not found on other drones.
https://youtu.be/SP3Dgr9S4pM
Feature wise, the standard ‘follow me’ mode can be found on the Solo but what’s interesting is that users will be able to draw a line along the screen of their smartphone, and the Solo will fly along that line while recording video. The ‘orbit’ option is a spectacular addition to the drone where users can select an orbit point on an object or area, the Solo will then record video while flying in a circle focused on the object.
The 3DR Solo aims to make aerial videography with drones much simpler for the user. According to the Solo’s launch film, apparently it’s simple enough that a monkey can also control it. Jokes aside, it not only caters to normal consumers but also to power drone users as it offers customisation and full control of what the drone can do in an easy to understand way.
The Solo weighs 1.5kg and it will be available in May 2015. The base model costs $1,000 (about RM3,713) while the Go-Pro holding gimbal inclusive model will set users back $1,400 (about RM5199).
[Source: Wired]
