Tag: Helicopter »

Swann, a global leader in security monitoring systems, and also a producer of many remote controlled (RC) helicopter models, has just announced the addition of a new RC helicopter to its fleet that can be controlled via an iOS device. The i-Fly Micro Lightning is an RC helicopter that can be controlled by iOS devices through Swann's free iFly app and an adapter that fits into the device's audio jack. The user can control the i-Fly Micro Lighting with on-screen touch controls or by tilting their device in tilt mode. There is also a 3-way infrared control included to control without an iOS device. The little helicopter charges via USB and will fly for up to 8 minutes on a full charge.

The i-Fly Micro Lightning will retail for $69.99, and will be available from Fry’s Electronics, BrandSmart, and other major retailers. The free iFly app is available for download form the Apple App Store and is compatible with iPhone, iPod, and iPad devices running iOS 3.0 or later.

There's a lot about modern technology that would have made my childhood self ridiculously excited. The ability to play the likes of Streets of Rage in the palm of my hand for one, being able to play 3D games without glasses thanks to a Nintendo 3DS for another - even just the opportunity to call someone from a mobile phone would have seemed pretty futuristic to the 10 year old me. I think this next one is going to take the prize of most amazing, though. Being able to control an indoor helicopter with my iOS device.

That reality is possible thanks to Griffin Technology and their new creation the HELO TC.

The HELO TC is a twin-rotored, indoor helicopter built on a lightweight metal frame with a black polycarbonate body. I'm no engineer, but that sounds pretty stylish to me. The sample images certainly back that thought up.

The helicopter comes with a Flight Deck infrared module which plugs into the iOS device in order to transmit control signals to the helicopter. Two types of flight are then made available. Touch Control uses the display to control the throttle and virtual joystick. Tilt to Steer mode uses the iOS device's accelerometers thus meaning that users have a more tactile experience. The app can also record and store three Flight Plans so that users can repeat a flight pattern quickly and easily.

The HELO TC is a very neat idea. The helicopter's built in battery recharges from any USB power source while the Flight Deck module simply needs 4 AAA batteries. It's simple things like this that means the HELO TC will be a very affordable $49.99 upon its retail release later this year, just in time for the holiday season.

For those who can't wait, the HELO TC is also available from the Griffin Technology site, although be warned, it's currently showing as out of stock there.