Parrot Launches Bebop 2 Power with 60min* Flight Time
In case you had forgotten that there were other drone manufacturers out there other than DJI, Parrot just released an upgraded version of their Bebop 2 which features several key hardware and software updates. However, the most advertised feature of the drone (its 60min* flight time) is essentially a lie, as what you get is two batteries that each offer 30min of flight time each. This is still very impressive and on par with the new DJI Mavic Pro Platinum, so I don’t know why Parrot felt the need to try and fool new buyers.
Ethical marketing questions aside, the Parrot Bebop 2 does a decent job of once again making the drone a viable option on the increasingly DJI dominated drone landscape. On the software side, Parrot has added several smart shots (orbit, parabola, boomerang & tornado), much like we’ve gotten used to with the DJI GO app, plus an active tracking feature which looks straight ripped off from DJI. The drone can also use the user’s GPS position from their smartphone to keep them centered in the frame as well.
On the hardware side not too much other than the battery has changed since the Bebop 2. Most notably it still lacks a gimbal and only uses electronic stabilization help try and make your shots buttery smooth. This also means that though the camera sensor is capable of 14mp stills, video recording maxes out 1080p/30. Flipping the drone into sport mode will increase responsiveness and boost the top speed to a satisfyingly fast 40mph. With that in mind, it’s nice to see that Parrot will be shipping the Bebop Power 2 with a pair of their Cockpitglasses 2 goggles which allow you to strap in your smartphone and try some real FPV racing.
The Bebop Power 2 will start shipping sometime before the end of September. For $599 you’ll get the drone, two 3,350mAh batteries, the aforementioned Cockpitglasses 2, and Parrot’s Skycontroller 2 which offers a 2km range and 720p video downlink. Check out their launch video below to see the drone in action.
