Solo Drone from 3D Robotics Sports In-Flight GoPro Controls

 

A new drone from 3D Robotics aims to steal the thunder of DJI’s recent launch, with a simple-to-fly aircraft that adds something new to the in-flight videography market. The Solo is a prosumer drone that offers a number of functions that other high-end drones provide, but it is claimed to be the first to have complete control over the settings of mountable GoPro cameras.

Using GPS and a pair of onboard Linux-based computers in the controller and craft itself, the Solo has automatic takeoff and landing options, the ability to “return home,” and pause a mid-air flight directly from the remote controller. An Android or iOS device can be connected to the controller to receive a live view from the attached camera or a satellite view of where the drone is, while an HDMI output on the controller lets it offer a video feed to a connected television or other display.

The Solo Gimbal, sold as an additional item, can be used to start and stop a GoPro’s video recording during flights. The same system can also be used to take photographs, alter the field of view and exposure settings, and other configurable items on the camera mid-flight, while the three-axis gimbal system is able to stabilize the camera to within 0.1 degrees of the user’s selected shot.

The entire system also introduces Smart Shots, a computer-assisted flight mode that aims to take away the difficulty of flying when filming. Cable Cam and Orbit modes let it fly on a virtual track defined by the pilot, leaving them free to manage the camera. Alternatively, a Follow mode will manage the drone’s flight for the users, altering its altitude and position in relation to the shot being taken. A one-touch aerial Selfie mode is also included.

Offering a range of up to half a mile and automatic cloud-based flight logs, the Solo will be shipping in the United States in May, with global availability expected in June and July. The drone itself will cost $1,000, while the Solo Gimbal is priced at $400.