Control Paper Airplanes From Your Phone With PowerUp 3.0

I have to admit, I am really excited about this little gadget. Writing for Techbeat, I am able to get glimpses at all kinds of new technology, and while all of it is exciting, some of it really stands apart from the rest. This potential game changer created by Shai Goitein is one of those devices that really stands out from the crowd. With the PowerUp 3.0, Goitein has created a way to pilot paper airplanes using a smartphone app. You did read that last part correctly; someone has figured out a way to actually control a paper airplane after it has left your hands. Throughout my life, I have attempted to make hundreds of paper airplanes, but none of them flew farther than a few feet before they plummeted toward the ground. My luck might be improving in the future thanks to the PowerUp 3.0.

Become A Paper Airplane Pilot!

All you need to become a professional paper airplane pilot is a paper airplane and the smart module that is pictured above. The PowerUp 3.0 recommends that would-be pilots construct their planes out of copier paper. Then, once your plane is finished, you attach the smart module to it. The smart module includes a crash-proof control interface (the box at the front of the plane), and a propeller and rotor at the rear. Your smartphone connects to the smart module via bluetooth and in no time at all your paper airplane is ruling the skies!

For something so small, the PowerUp 3.0 is incredibly sophisticated. Once you connect your phone to the PowerUp, all you have to do is push the throttle all the way up and then you can throw your plane into the wind. Once it’s airborne, you can tilt your phone to steer the plane to wherever you want it to fly. One flight can last up to 10 minutes and/or 180 feet before it needs recharged.

PowerUp 3.0 will be available as an app for both iOS and Android users. It is currently in its Kickstarter phase, though it has already reached $368,528 as of this writing out of their original goal of $50,000. They expect to begin shipping them in June of 2014. Take a look at the iPhone pilot screen below.

What are your thoughts? Will you be purchasing the PowerUp 3.0?

[Images via appadvice & diydrones]

SOURCE: http://www.engadget.com/2013/11/26/powerup/