Parrot has decided to extend the AR.Drone piloting experience for users of Android smartphones by releasing the AR.FreeFlight app and software development kit (SDK). AR.Drone is a quadrocopter which flies in the air and can now be manned by Android users. This application allows them to view where and how it is flying on their smartphones.
Made for fans of this unique flying device, the AR.FreeFlight’s piloting app will make them feel as if they are actually with the quadrocopter and operating it in the sky. After downloading the application, the flying device can be connected by Wi-Fi to transform the smartphone screen into a piloting station.
The Software Development Kit lets developers imagine and create new applications for AR.Drone on the Android platform. This SDK is a 1.8 version which includes new enhanced features. It makes the process of hovering on top of the roundel more convenient and a new FTP package by Parrot has been included among other developments.
Users are said to experience something that is beyond a video game as they transform into literal pilots of the device which soars through the sky dodging buildings, people and objects. They can also challenge their friends to an aerial race between their respective AR.Drones.
The quadrocopter embedded with two cameras provides a wide view of its journey through air on users’ smartphones. Debuting last year, the device is enabled to identify 3D stages. It works with augmented reality flying games and equips an ultrasound altimeter that lets the Drone hover.
The AR.FreeFlight app can be downloaded for free from the Android Market. The Software Development Kit can be obtained for free from projects.ardrone.org.
