[Note: On November 25th, 2015, the Torquing Group reported on their Kickstarter website that they had “to wind up the project.” The comments from backers range from disappointment to anger].

Imagine the interesting memories that could be recorded if you had someone invisibly filming a family vacation. Now, imagine how great it would be if this person was 50 feet tall and could capture virtually impossible perspectives. Imagine no more, as the ZANO drone from the Torquing Group [As of 11/25, the link web site no longer works] promises to be a kind of miniature flying selfie stick.

Instead of a physical pole that one has to hold, the hand-sized ZANO drone utilizes the Lantronix xPico^® Wi-Fi module to serve as a virtual tether, allowing ZANO to follow a person’s smart phone or tablet at a user-determined distance.  ZANO has a multitude of sensors that work together to avoid obstacles and communicate with its associated app to hold its position relative to the user’s iOS and Android device. The most important sensor may be the built-in camera that allows for aerial photography and HD video capture.

Although each Lithium-Ion battery promises 15 minutes of flight, flying can be extended by interchangeable batteries. Since it is very lightweight and designed not to stray more than 30 yards from its owner, ZANO should be in good position as the FAA rule making, particularly with regards to commercial use, continues to unfold. As Torquing Group’s Marketing Director, Reece Crowther, emphasizes in the above video, they wish to work with lawmakers and regulators to ensure that sensible rules are created. He points out that ZANO’s operation can be set via software to reflect changes in rules (e.g. limit maximum flight altitude, for instance).

With over 12,000 backers, the Torquing Group easily reached its Kickstarter goals and is well on its way to production, which is slated for June, 2015. Although this is Torguing Group’s first foray away from its defense market roots and into the consumer electronic realm, they are well positioned for market success with this product. With its rich feature set, its simplicity and a relatively inexpensive price of $270, this should not only capture the hearts of many consumers, but also their images.