Scott Simmie is a career multi-platform journalist now specializing in drones and other technology content creation.
He’s worked at senior levels for CBC National News and the Toronto Star, reporting from such locations as China, Russia, Thailand, Ethiopia and more. While at The Star, he covered the X Prize in Mojave – the competition that led to Virgin Galactic and sparked space tourism. He has reported from multiple conflict zones, as an EMMY Nominee, and is the co-author of three best-selling, non-fiction books.
Scott has been working in the world of drones since late 2014. His clients have included DJI.
Follow Scott on Twitter @scottsimmie
FIXAR, the Latvian manufacturer of an innovative fixed-wing VTOL drone, has struck an agreement with Canada’s largest drone solution companies. Volatus Aerospace, Inc. will build up to 1200 FIXAR drones annually at its Ontario facility.
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Skydio, the largest US manufacturer of consumer and Enterprise drones, is getting closer to moving its 3D Scan software from beta to a publicly available version. And, well, we’re blown away by what we’re seeing.
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An online drone Flight Review network is launching in Canada. It aims to make things easier for drone operators seeking a Flight Review, where a Transport Canada-endorsed Flight Reviewer observes proficiency with flying and quizzes the pilot about airspace and other safety regulations.
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A DJI customer says he’s received word that the Air 2S will work with the company’s goggles and motion controller. This conflicts with the official word from DJI.
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BETAFPV, a Shenzhen company that specializes in smaller drones, has unveiled a new addition to its lineup: It’s called the Pavo30 Whoop Quadcopter, and it’s got some interesting things going for it – including the fact it’s the company’s first 3″, pusher-style Whoop.
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As a result of drone technology, the world of aviation is rapidly changing. Multiple companies are working on eVTOL aircraft that will, in a few years, whisk you over congested urban centers or to nearby cities without the hassle of that full airport experience. But it’s not every day we see a flying car.
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Well, this post is a delight to write: We’ve hired a great new writer, and she has a ton of experience writing about drones and other related technologies.
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We’ve been seeing some great videos online that show exactly what the Air 2S is capable of when it comes to aerial imaging. It can do a lot.
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The new FAA Remote ID rule goes into effect Wednesday, April 21. Let’s explore what that means for you as a pilot. This story will be of use to all pilots of drones weighing 250 grams or more, and there’s some DJI-specific news for those flying DJI products.
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The word today is that Autel has a new Smart Controller coming soon. It’s available for pre-order now, and we’ve got a video to share.
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A quiet post on DJI’s Air 2S FAQ page contains some news some are finding troubling: The company has no plans to have the Air 2S play nice with DJI’s FPV goggles or its Motion Controller. And that stinks.
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There’s been another leak from @OsitaLV. This time, it’s a really pro-looking camera. Let’s see what the buzz is about.
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The most prolific leaker of DJI information is at it again: @OsitaLV says he’s seen new a DJI patent filing that appears to take a page out of Skydio’s book. He’s got a low-res image to back it up.
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An organization dedicated to using drones for emergencies and disaster response has been awarded a grant from the US government. A news release says the funds will be used to “support drone operations within federal, state, and local public safety agencies and emergency services organizations.”
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For some of you out there, it’s decision time. Regular flying season in North America is nearly here (though some in warmer spots fly all year round). And DJI has just released its Air 2S. What to do?
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Leaks are just as prevalent in the automotive world as in the drones sector. And, the day before Shanghai’s big Auto Show, a DJI-related autonomous electric vehicle leak has occurred.
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We’ve seen drones used to rescue people. We’ve seen drones used to track suspects. But we have never, ever seen something like this. And, odds are, neither have you.
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Yes, you’ve likely seen a video taken by drone of that Iceland volcano by now. But we’re betting many of you haven’t seen this video, or the story behind it.
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Almost as soon as the Air 2S hit the market, people were asking the inevitable question: How will it do in the tracking department? Specifically, will it track as well as the Skydio 2? Someone has already done an excellent job of investigating this, so let’s hop on for the ride.
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The Air 2S is available now. It’s $999 for the solo drone, and $1,299 (US) for the Fly More combo.
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If you liked the Mavic Air 2, you’re going to love the Air 2S. It’s a substantial improvement on what was an already-great drone.
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Well, the waiting is nearly over. On April 15 at 9 a.m. EDT, the Air 2S will be released. And we’ll be chatting about the new product live from 9:45-10:30 a.m. EDT tomorrow.
Update: Thanks for coming out and chatting. Video here
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A new video showcasing video shots by the new Air 2S has leaked, one day prior to the official release. Let’s take a look.
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Parrot, the French drone manufacturer, has partnered with Israel’s High Lander, a company known for its exceedingly smart drone fleet automation software.
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