When Epson messaged to ask if I wanted to try a new augmented reality headset designed to improve the experience of piloting a drone, I was all ears. After spending some time piloting a DJI drone using Epson’s AR headset, I was hooked — there is no better way to fly a drone.
What is it?
An augmented reality headset. Before your eyes glaze over, this one isn’t for Pokémon Go or rearranging your living room. Epson’s Moverio BT-300 Drone Edition is in a niche of its own.
The glasses are lightweight, weighing just 2.5 oz (69 g), and extend your ability as a drone pilot by providing visual cues from a pre-determined route (augmented graphics that help you stick to your course), and a sort of in-flight HUD that keeps you informed of everything from flight time to battery life, and even a picture-in-picture map similar to one you’d see when playing Battlefield or Call of Duty — in addition to a first-person view in crisp and beautiful 720p.
,
,
Why does it matter?
We’ve reached the point where it’s hard to innovate in the drone market. Until we get long range batteries, or controllers capable of miles-long flight (in consumer drones), it’s going to be difficult to push the market any further. As such, it’s accessories that are going to keep things exciting. The Mover BT-300 is hands-down the coolest drone accessory I’ve tried to date.
When is it coming?
Later this month. Grab yours for $779 from the Epson website.
Source: TheNextWeb