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Interested in an iOS-controlled model helicopter, but turned off by the Parrot AR.Drone's $299.99 price tag? Griffin has announced the Helo TC, a $49.99 helicopter controlled via an iOS app. It's not nearly as fancy as the AR.Drone, but at 1/6th the price, it could be a fun toy for users looking to fly something with their iPhone.
Instead of using WiFi, the Helo includes a "case" that the iPhone slides into and plugs in via the headphone jack. The headphone jack sends tones to an IR transmitter which talks to the helicopter -- so users need to have line-of-sight to the helicopter at all times. The case is powered by 4 AAA batteries.
The Helo TC Touch-Controlled Helicopter is available for pre-order for $49.99 from Griffin's website and will be available at retailers for the holiday season. The Helo TC app is available for free on the App Store, but it won't do much good until the helicopter actually starts shipping.
Top Rated Comments
(View all)I noticed in the video that it shows him turning on "Airplane Mode" to play with his helicopter....
Probably to prevent a call from coming through and the helicopter crashing while taping.Parrots AR.Drone costs more, but actually uses your iOS device in ways that matter.
It's neat technology, but an EPIC FAIL on the pricing.