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Drones are getting a whole lot smarter. Imaging and sensing technology specialist Teledyne FLIR has unveiled Prism Supervisor, an AI-powered software that takes drone missions to the next level. Whether it’s search and rescue, security, or military operations, this tool allows drones to think and act on their own — minimizing human effort while improving safety and efficiency.

In recent months, the United States has witnessed a surge in drone activity, with numerous sightings reported across the Northeast. Between mid-November and late December 2024, over 5,000 drone sightings were documented along the East Coast, particularly in New Jersey, New York, and Connecticut. While federal investigations have determined that many of these drones were authorized and posed no security threat, the sheer volume of reports underscores the growing presence of drones in our airspace.

Detroit is taking to the skies in a big way, and DJI drone pilots are at the center of the action. Thanks to a new partnership between Spexi and Airspace Link, the city is embracing drones as a key part of its transportation future. This collaboration isn’t just about incorporating drones into everyday life — it’s also unlocking new earning opportunities for local drone pilots flying DJI Mini 2, Mini 3, and DJI Mini 3 Pro drones.

US drone maker Skydio has unveiled the nation’s first comprehensive study on Drone as First Responder (DFR) operations, shedding light on how drones are transforming public safety. The study analyzed 1,779 flights across various jurisdictions — from bustling metropolitan areas to quiet rural counties — between September 15 and November 14, 2024. The findings highlight the pivotal role drones play in enhancing law enforcement efficiency, ensuring officer and community safety, and providing critical situational awareness.

DJI has just dropped an exciting firmware update for the Osmo Action 5 Pro, making the already powerful action camera even better. The update, version 01.03.03.30, introduces new tone settings, seamless file transfers with Mutual Transfer Alliance (MTA) support, and underwater video optimizations, all aimed at improving your shooting experience.

Tech giant DJI is once again generating buzz with leaks about its highly anticipated Mavic 4 Pro drone. If the rumors and leaked footage are to be believed, this drone promises to raise the bar for aerial photography and videography. Here’s what we know so far about this tech marvel — and why fans of its predecessor, the Mavic 3 Pro, are eager to get their hands on it.

Leaks are in the air as we likely near another release of DJI’s flagship drone line, the Mavic 4. Amazon also had a big week, but not in a good way; its drone delivery operation is on pause as it works on issues with its MK30 drone.

DJI has rolled out new firmware updates for two of its more recent, popular drones: the DJI Flip and the DJI Air 3S.

Seattle-based drone maker BRINC has launched a new discount program called BRINC Beyond. The program is tailored to help public safety agencies transition from generic, off-the-shelf drones to BRINC’s purpose-built drones designed specifically for emergency response missions. And here’s the kicker — no trade-ins are required.

DJI Flip purchasers have shared issues with getting their drones through customs and into the United States, echoing similar issues experienced after the Air 3S launch in October. It appears that this issue has not gone away and seems it will likely not go away any time soon.

The Insta360 Flow 2 Pro is one of the most advanced smartphone gimbals on the market. We’ve had a chance to play with it for a few weeks, and these are five things we really love about the new gimbal.

Tech giant DJI has recently expanded its consumer drone lineup with two innovative models aimed at beginner pilots and content creators: the DJI Neo and the DJI Flip. Both drones offer unique features tailored to different user needs. Here’s an in-depth comparison to help you decide which drone suits you best.

As we’re patiently waiting for DJI to announce its latest flagship camera drone, we have no choice but to speculate what it will be through leaked specs, images, and renders. If they’re all true, the design of the Mavic 4 Pro will be quite different from its previous design. One aspect of the design’s change will likely come from its smaller siblings.

Imagine a world where a single fleet of drones can patrol urban waterways, rescue struggling swimmers, and even deliver your lunch — all without a human pilot at the controls. That future is here, thanks to A2Z Drone Delivery.

Editors note: This article has been updated with statements from an Amazon spokesperson.

Amazon’s drone delivery dreams have once again hit turbulence with the company temporarily halting its 60-minute drone delivery service in Texas and Arizona following a series of crashes involving its new MK30 drones. The decision comes after two drones crashed during tests at Amazon’s Pendleton, Oregon, site in December — one of which caught fire on impact.

South Korea’s BEI has unveiled a new battery that promises to double drone flight times and perform exceptionally in extreme temperatures. The innovation not only propels the drone industry forward but also positions South Korea as a pivotal tech supplier for the United States amid rising concerns over Chinese technology.

New York City is considering a new high-tech weapon in its fight against filth: drones. The city’s Department of Sanitation (DSNY) is exploring whether drones could help crack down on illegal dumping, trash left out too early, and even abandoned “ghost cars” clogging up the streets.

Last weekend, the Supreme Court upheld a law banning TikTok from the United States, a first-of-its-kind bill that would effectively shut down an app with hundreds of millions of users. However, neither former President Biden nor newly sworn-in President Trump shows interest in enforcing the law. Does that mean there’s light at the end of the tunnel for DJI?

Welcome to The Buzz, a weekly roundup of news about consumer, enterprise, and defense uses for drones. For now, it’s in a written format, but soon there will be a return to our weekly podcast format. This week was a big week for controversies; between the investigation of the LA fire’s drone crash, Red Cat’s potential fraud, and DJI dropping No-Fly Zones, there was a lot.

While many experienced drone pilots and photographers probably know the answer to this question, many new pilots might not. So what is the difference between optical and digital zoom? When should you use either?

Even with the F-22 still considered the most dominant fighter the US Air Force has developed, the department is already looking towards its replacement, or lack thereof. The outgoing Air Force Secretary stated that the next-generation fighter program could rely on a “F-35 follow-on” that would simply manage unmanned combat air vehicles.

It’s the age old problem, you’re out flying your drone and think to yourself, “I really wish this thing could drive.” Well engineering YouTuber Michael Rechtin did, and now we have tank drone… or a drone tank? A drone that can drive and a tank that can fly.

Red Cat Holdings, a prominent player in the drone manufacturing industry, is navigating turbulent skies following serious allegations concerning its US Army contract and production capabilities. The company’s stock took a nosedive, dropping over 8% on January 16, 2025, after Kerrisdale Capital, a well-known short-selling firm, released a report casting doubt on Red Cat’s claims.

Hundreds of spectators gathered at Lake Eola Park in downtown Orlando on December 21, expecting a dazzling holiday-themed drone show. Instead, they witnessed chaos as drones crashed midair, plunged into the lake, and veered off course. The worst of it? A 7-year-old boy was struck by one of the falling drones, suffering serious injuries that led to open-heart surgery. Now, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has released its preliminary report detailing what went wrong, and the findings are alarming.