Toy Drone

Instead of using a traditional remote, this flying toy can be controlled by any iPod Touch or iPhone running special software. A camera communicates with the controller over a Wi-Fi connection, delivering a pilot’s-eye view to the user’s screen. Graphics representing enemy planes can be overlaid on this view with augmented-reality technology, and the AR Drone can dogfight with them. Thanks to all the onboard processor power available, it can take advantage of technology that keeps it much more stable in flight than similar toys. As a second camera scans the ground below, the Drone automatically adjusts its engines to keep it flying level or hovering.
Product: AR Drone
Cost: Not yet determined
Availability: 2010
Source: ardrone.parrot.com
Companies: Parrot
Deep Dive
Uncategorized
Our best illustrations of 2022
Our artists’ thought-provoking, playful creations bring our stories to life, often saying more with an image than words ever could.
How CRISPR is making farmed animals bigger, stronger, and healthier
These gene-edited fish, pigs, and other animals could soon be on the menu.
The Download: the Saudi sci-fi megacity, and sleeping babies’ brains
10 Breakthrough Technologies 2023
Stay connected
Get the latest updates from
MIT Technology Review
Discover special offers, top stories, upcoming events, and more.