Qualcomm: Reference drone with 5G and 8K video resolution unveiled

Qualcomm has presented a new reference drone design with the Qualcomm Flight RB5 5G, which comes up with impressive specifications. Videos can be recorded in either 8K resolution or 4K at a full 120 frames per second, and a 5G mode is also built in.

The Qualcomm Flight RB5 5G features

The brand-new Qualcomm Flight RB5 5G reference drone aims to stand out from the competition, especially in terms of technical specifications. Inside, the QRB5165 SoC performs its duties, combining a Kryo 585 processor with an Adreno 650 graphics chip, achieving roughly the performance of the Qualcomm Snapdragon 865.

Thanks to the 5th generation Qualcomm Artificial Intelligence (AI) Engine (15 TOPS), the drone enables complex AI calculations and relies on deep learning technology for autonomous flight. In the process, Qualcomm provides developer kits for programmers to facilitate easier software creation.

The Qualcomm Spectra 480 CV-ISP provides impressive camera quality for the drone: 8K video at up to 30 frames per second can be recorded. Slow-motion 4K recording including HDR at up to 120 fps is also possible, as are photos with the help of the 200-megapixel sensor.

The features of the Qualcomm Flight RB5 5G also include a 5G modem as well as Wi-Fi 6, which should especially simplify communication between multiple drones in a drone swarm. A detailed look at the data sheet of the drone also reveals that the 480mm tall flying device weighs around 1.235kg. The battery is said to last for at least 20 minutes.

Price and Availability

Since the Qualcomm Flight RB5 5G is a reference model, the drone is not intended for direct sale to consumers and is aimed at developers and companies that want to use Qualcomm’s model as the basis for their own drone.

The model without a 5G modem is priced at the equivalent of around 3,400 euros. With a 5G modem, the Flight RB5 5G is the equivalent of about 3,825 euros. Delivery is expected to take place at the end of September.