Created by Zero Zero Robotics team from Beijing, Hover is an
automatic flying camera. The design aspect is the most special element of this
device because its shape is not like regular quad-copter. Hover has a foldable
body, and when folded, its size is approximately equal to VHS tape. To use it,
you can simply 'open' the drone's wings just like a book.
Hover still utilizes four rotors, but it's protected by a
metal cage structure. In addition to protecting the blades of a collision, this
part will also protect your fingers in order not to get hurt. Hover Camera is
also designed to be easy to operate, you can simply take it from the cover
(similar to the cover of a book), turn and fly, and it would immediately
capture the photos.
In addition to the compact size presentation, the drone is
also light weight; it's just about 238-grams, making it easy to carry
everywhere. The power button is on the back area and the camera module is in
the front part. Different from videography UAV generally, Hover Camera is not
designed to go too far or flying high because it is not equipped with GPS, it's
more suitable as a personal cameraman for selfie or wefie.
As compensation for the absence of tracking sensor, Zero
Zero equips the Hover Camera with face detection technology and other computer
vision systems. It's able to maintain altitude and follow you in a safe distance;
it can also detect the body and the surrounding environment thanks to the
simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM).
To sustain its capabilities, Zero Zero puts Qualcomm
Snapdragon 801 chipset which consist of 2.3 GHz quad-core processor, as well as
13-megapixel camera to take still pictures and record video up to 4K at
30-frames per second. Furthermore, the developer also equips the Hover Camera with
one axis gimbal and electronic image stabilization to minimize the shocking
effects on photos/recordings.
Indeed the Hover Camera is not as sophisticated as DJI
Phantom 4 or 3DR Solo, but it is prepared for personal needs. Zero Zero hasn't
announced when Hover will be available, but according to the plan it will be
offered under $ 600.