I just read this Wired Magazine post and saw this new video release by GoPro (below). It is a sneak preview of footage shot by the new GoPro drone which is slated for release in 2016. The Wired writer says “What’s amazing is the perfect, almost dolly-like stability of the shots of an idyllic farm and a journey through the forest.” See for yourself:

I agree the footage is smooth but take a close look at the video. Watch the leaves in the trees. Watch the dust stirred up by the ATV rider. None of the shots were captured during any wind. Any at all. Like not even a breeze caused by a flea sneezing.

Just about any currently available drone with basic GPS or altitude stabilization could capture video as smooth in the same conditions, and they already are. Before I wet my pants with excitement over the new GoPro drone (need a waterproof case if so), I’ll have to see it in action in varying conditions. I’ll also be curious to see flight times, features, FPV (first person view), the size of the unit, and all sorts of other features in which GoPro has a chance to show its innovation.

I’ll also expect to see a GoPro-like price point.

Then I’ll be excited.

Handheld mini GPS tracking device provides one-handed flight control for Typhoon series of drones

ONTARIO, CA (October 13, 2015) – Yuneec International, the world leader in electric aviation, today announced the launch of the Typhoon Wizard, an ultra-lightweight remote control that will revolutionize the way multicopters are flown.

Yuneec Wizard – One Handed Drone Flight Controller

The ultra-lightweight and compact Typhoon Wizard allows users to pilot their Typhoon multicopter with the use of only one hand, making it even easier to capture life’s memories from a bird’s-eye view. Users will benefit from the convenience and portability of the included water-resistant carrying strap, which allows hands-free navigation. For additional convenience, the Typhoon Wizard is compatible with the entire Typhoon series of drones.

Manual controls, which users are accustomed to on the ST10+ remote control, can be easily accessed from the Typhoon Wizard. Functions such as changing flight modes, starting or stopping motors and flying manually are all accessible with a click of the center button on the Wizard. Features Typhoon consumers have come to know and love, including Watch Me, Follow Me, and Dynamic Return to Home, are also now a single-handed operation.

“The Typhoon Wizard is the perfect companion for your next adventure. Simply clip the Wizard on your backpack or stick it in your pocket and watch the Typhoon follow you on your next hike, bike ride or surfing lesson. It truly is that easy to use,” said Shan Phillips, CEO of Yuneec USA.

Consumers can also benefit from two new features exclusive to the Typhoon Wizard.

Height-tracking: ensures the Typhoon follows users as their altitude changes while staying clear of obstructions.
Point-to-Fly: when enabled, the aircraft will fly in the direction the Typhoon Wizard is pointed by the pilot.

The Typhoon Wizard package includes a microUSB cord for charging and a water-resistant carrying strap. The device is available for the suggested retail price of $199.99 USD. For more information visit www.yuneec.com.

About Yuneec International
Founded in 1999, Yuneec is the world leader in electric aviation. With hundreds of patents held, Yuneec’s core technologies power manned aircraft, Typhoon and Tornado drones and its market-leading line of radio controlled aircraft for the hobby market. With offices in North America, Europe and Asia, Yuneec manufactures over one million units a year that are sold under OEM/ODM brands as well as the Typhoon brand of multicopters. The company’s achievements include the introduction of the industry’s first “Ready to Fly” radio controlled electric powered airplane, and the design and manufacture of market-leading radio controlled helicopters and microcopters.

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