Just came across the news that Skydio bought 114 patents from GoPro. What’s the story here? Did anyone get more info?
This seems like it could work out for both companies. GoPro’s had trouble with all the competition out there like Insta360 and DJI Osmo Action. I couldn’t find exactly what patents Skydio got, but I’d guess it’s mostly about camera tech, which Skydio’s drones could definitely use.
@Sam
You think this means Skydio might start making drones for regular users again?
Lorin said:
@Sam
You think this means Skydio might start making drones for regular users again?
If a DJI ban goes through, I’d totally expect Skydio to bring back their consumer drones.
@Sam
I heard they already stopped, so it might take some time before they go that route again. If they really want a DJI ban, Skydio needs a strong consumer option that competes. Otherwise, people won’t want a ban because they won’t have good alternatives.
@Lorin
Most people honestly don’t know or care about any of this. But, with enough lobbying, a ban is possible. In fact, there’s talk about putting heavy tariffs on all Chinese imports.
I wouldn’t be shocked if China pulls DJI out of the US if that happens. Either way, if you want DJI gear, better get it now.
Lorin said:
@Sam
You think this means Skydio might start making drones for regular users again?
Or at least, maybe they’ll finally add a decent camera.
Lorin said:
@Sam
You think this means Skydio might start making drones for regular users again?
If they do, it’ll probably be like $900.
Lorin said:
@Sam
You think this means Skydio might start making drones for regular users again?
Maybe, but it’ll cost a fortune if they do.
Lorin said:
@Sam
You think this means Skydio might start making drones for regular users again?
Yeah, because that GoPro drone design worked out so well… /s
@Sam
Must be rough for GoPro if they’re selling patents instead of just licensing them out.
@Sam
People always forget that smartphones are probably GoPro’s biggest competition.
@Sam
So it’s probably camera patents, since that’s one area where Skydio is lacking… I doubt it’s software-related because GoPro’s software has been a mess.
Van said:
@Sam
So it’s probably camera patents, since that’s one area where Skydio is lacking… I doubt it’s software-related because GoPro’s software has been a mess.
Well, maybe the UI or bugs in their software, but the real problem is GoPro’s hardware.
@Sam
Honestly, most of GoPro’s problems are self-inflicted… lots of missed opportunities and bad execution.
Not a fan of Skydio at all… wouldn’t use one even if it were the last drone out there.
Seriously… Skydio? No thanks.
Oh yeah, the legends who gave us the Karma. I’m sure this will go great.
Wonder who’s pocketing from this deal?
Good luck, but if any of these patents are from GoPro’s drone days, they should remember how that turned out! What could GoPro even offer that DJI hasn’t already done?