14 DAY TRIAL // You'd think that regular quadcopters were already pretty small, and you'd be right, but that doesn't mean everyone agrees with you. In fact, Reece Crowther took matters into his own hands and developed a new intelligent air drone.
Meet ZANO, what he describes as “the world's most sophisticated nano aerial photo and HD video capture platform.”
Now you might ask yourself why he would make such a claim. Especially since the drone lacks 360 and 180 degree Panoramics, swarming capability, Custom LED pixel Art creation or even an instant imaging editing suite.
One reason is because those capabilities, as well as target tracking through image processing and facial recognition, will be installed soon if the Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign succeeds.
The main reason is what the drone can already do, despite its much smaller size compared to other quadcopters. Where most such drones are about as long/wide as a regular food plate, this one fits inside a palm.
The features of the ZANO
As an ultraportable, personal aerial photography and video capture platform, it measures 2.5 x 2.5 inches / 65 x 65 mm and weighs 55 grams / 1.94 ounces.
It is equipped with a 5 megapixel HD camera, and while it can't use it yet for image-based tracking, it can still keep you in its “sights” by tethering to your smart device via 802.11b/g/n 2.4GHz Wi-Fi. A software failsafe commands it to come to you if it strays too far.
Digital image stabilization prevents video blur or jitters, and you can control the ZANO if automatic orbiting isn't your thing. On-screen joysticks let you guide it and capture or share photos and videos.
A 5-megapixel HD video camera is included, along with an IR obstacle avoidance system, altitude control (echo sounding sonar and high resolution air pressure sensor), a 2w Class D Audio Amplifier, and unlimited color RGB landing lights.
Moreover, there is an unlimited color RGB 8x8 pixel front display with animation support, plus a high sensitivity onboard digital microphone.
Between that and the 10-15 minute flight time (weather dependent), the ZANO will be able to take photos from all angles and at a range of 15 to 30 meters / 50 – 100 feet. The top speed is 25 mph / 40 kph.
Availability and pricing
The ZANO ultraportable personal aerial photography and video capture drone can be yours if you pledge £139 / $217 / €175. Shipments will begin in January 2015.
