DJI launches augmented reality drone flight simulator app for Epson smart glasses

Epson, the creators of the Moverio augmented reality smart glasses, has partnered with global drone leader DJI to create a realistic drone flight simulator app so pilots can fly a virtual unmanned aerial vehicle.

Using the Epson Moverio BT300 FPV (first person view) smart glasses, it is now possible to fly a 3D digital drone in the real world using the DJI drone’s flight controller.

Pilots can choose from the latest DJI drones including the Mavic Pro, Phantom 4, Inspire 2 and Spark.

The simulator overlays the 3D digital drone into your surroundings and mirrors the natural movements of the drones so pilots can learn to fly or sharpen up their skills.

Epson’s flight simulator app also displays your flight information like distance and height and includes a fly mode and two mini games to test the skills of advanced pilots.

“Augmented reality is set to revolutionize the industry with the ability to create a safer, more productive flight,” said Romsin Oushana of DJI Partnerships.

“The hands-free, heads-up experience delivered by the Epson Moverio BT-300 is the ideal way to experience aerial AR.”

The application was created by Y Media Labs in Silicon Valley in collaboration with Epson and DJI. It will be available in the Moverio Apps Market in the coming weeks.

“This is arguably the first mainstream consumer application for augmented reality smartglasses,” said Eric Mizufuka, Manager, New Ventures, Epson America.

“The ability to digitally ‘paint the sky’ is a game-changer in the drone market and will usher in an exciting range of applications.

“We’ve been very impressed with DJI’s updated Mobile SDK and look forward to continuing to invest in new applications and partnerships in this space.”

The Epson Moverio BT300 smart glasses are available now and priced at $1199.