Sony’s expensive Airpeak S1 drone has been usually improved since its disappointing launch. Sony launched an enhanced battery and higher gimbal earlier this year, and has in the present day launched a brand new firmware replace that provides superior mapping, new security protocols, and higher compatibility.
The free firmware replace is “tailor-made to fulfill the evolving wants of business enterprise and high-end customers,” per Sony. It represents the corporate’s “dedication to steady enchancment and customer-centric innovation.” The corporate additional explains that the brand new firmware straight responds to buyer suggestions.
The improved mapping options are designed with surveying functions in thoughts and make the most of the latest Airpeak Actual Time Kinematic (RTK) equipment RTK-1 and GBL-PX1 gimbal. With these add-ons and the brand new firmware replace, customers can create 2D ortho maps, 3D fashions, and level clouds extra effectively. The replace additionally makes it simpler to make use of high-precision positioning knowledge inside knowledgeable workflow. The information is recorded to an SD card within the RTK interface unit and will be linked with corresponding photographs utilizing the Airpeak Flight app.
Though the brand new mapping is for enterprise and industrial customers, each Airpeak proprietor can take pleasure in a brand new Computerized Return to Dwelling (RTH) function that guarantees to enhance security in numerous flight situations. The function is constructed to robotically activate and lead the drone “house” when it experiences low battery or inadequate sign. “It intelligently calculates and navigates bypass routes to keep away from restricted airspace or obstacles alongside the return path,” says Sony.
Customers can choose between Fundamental and Superior modes. The Fundamental mode avoids obstacles in an upward route, whereas the Superior mode additionally avoids horizontal obstructions. “This function is especially helpful for guaranteeing the protected retrieval of the plane after finishing aerial imaging duties,” Sony provides.
One other new function, Direct Repeat Flight, permits Airpeak customers to duplicate flight paths. The mode permits the drone to precisely comply with a beforehand flown path, together with particular gimbal and digital camera actions, which ought to be useful in photograph and video productions. For instance, think about the Airpeak getting used to movie a scene. With the brand new Direct Repeat Flight possibility, doing a number of takes with constant digital camera timing and positioning ought to be simpler.
The Sony Airpeak can also be now suitable with the Sony a7R Mark III(A), a barely upgraded a7R III mannequin released quietly in 2021.
A way more useful compatibility growth comes from assist for brand spanking new iPhone and iPad fashions. The Airpeak apps now work with iPhone SE (third era), iPhone 14 Professional (Max), iPhone 14 (Plus), iPad Air (fifth era), iPad Professional 11-inch (sixth era), and iPad (tenth era).
Sony has additionally introduced key partnerships with main gamers within the drone business, together with AirData UAV, Hexagon Good Internet, and Inertial Labs. Whereas Sony’s Airpeak technique has been puzzling total, the brand new firmware replace not less than displays continued consideration on the premium, pro-oriented drone. Sony’s website has full particulars and obtain info in regards to the new firmware replace.
Picture credit: Sony
