It looks like Android is becoming the OS of choice for all types of devices. Now Nikon has announced the S800c, a compact point and shoot that runs Android 2.3. Featuring 10x optical zoom (4.5 -45mm), 16MP sensor, Full 1080 video recording, Wifi and GPS, 3.5" touchscreen and compatibility for third party app development through Google Play. Nikon S800c Engadget hands-on
It looks like a real contender for UAV/FPV use, with the possibility of finally bringing full HD video with real camera optics, and even zoom capabilities,to the masses via wifi, at a price point ($350) similar to a GoPro HD2 (with wifi module), albeit with a larger profile. With apps like IP Webcam, which is a IP Web Cam server running on the Android device itself, and TinyCam Monitor which can monitor and control (pan/tilt/zoom) multiple Webcams simultaneously, it might be the beginning of Tab enabled FPV/UAV, especially when Zachary finishes his ground station port:
http://diydrones.com/forum/topics/who-wants-a-iphone-app-used-as-a-...
Of course by having such a powerful processor and OS system available off the shelf, it leaves itself open for even more development for geomapping/photography, as well as possibly using the additional WiFi and GPS components to supplement those of the APM. For instance all image and video handling can be done in Android, from its own GPS, rather than having to trigger it via APM. Features like HDR can also be very beneficial for those more light challenged shots. A connected 3/4G USB dongle would also give it nearly unlimited range ie IP connectivity, with realtime uploads to your home NAS, while the UAV is still aloft. With Samsung also having an Android camera in the works, it looks like the future might bring about even more of these Android enabled devices, at price levels that are affordable for those that take their hobby seriously. Once there is more competition expect the price to fall considerably.
Season Two of the Trust Time Trial (T3) Contest has now begun. The fourth round is an accuracy round for multicopters, which requires contestants to fly a cube. The deadline is April 14th.182 members
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