If you would’ve told me ten years ago that my cell phone could act as a remote control for flight toys, I would’ve called you crazy. If you’d bring the subject up today, I’d tell you that there’s an app for that. Introducing the Wi-Fli R/C Helicopter.
Remember the Griffin Helo TC Assault Helicopter we showed you fairly recently? The Helo operates by plugging in the Flight Deck module into your iPhone or Android phone headphone jack. The Wi-Fli R/C Helicopter is built similar in concept in that it can be manipulated by either type of phone via their touchscreens; however the difference is that you don’t need to plug anything into your smartphone to operate the Wi-Fli helicopter. All it requires is that you download the free control app on your phone, and off you go. Basically, all you need is your phone, the helicopter, and hand-eye coordination.
Wi-Fli R/C Helicopter
Indoor Outdoor Wi-Fi controlled helicopter (wi-fi control device not included)
Compatible with iPhone 3, 3G and 4 with iOS 4.0 and above
iPod touch 2G, 3G and 4G with iOS 4.0 and above
iPad and iPad 2 with iOS 4.0 and above and Android phone with Android OS 2.1, 2.2 and 2.3 and multi-touch display capability required
Flight function up/down. left/right, forward/backward and 360 degrees exact directional flightThe new, advanced generation of heli – flight! Wi – Fli Indoor / Outdoor Hobby Helicopter! Advanced gyroscope technology and Wi-Fi touch control (via your own “smart” device) makes for ultra-smooth, balanced, precise flight! It’s exceptional and exceptionally fun flying for both indoor and outdoor action. Ready for your command: Free Web download of the control app for use on an iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch or Android phone. Cool graphic interface with regular and advanced modes; Sturdy made with metal and plastic parts. 3 rotors, including tail rotor with independent motor; 3.7V lithium battery, recharged via included 23″ USB cable; Full 360 exact-direction and altitude control; Range approx. 60′. Helicopter is 12″ x 5 3/4″. Main rotor 11 3/4″ diam. Weighs 10 oz. Comes with replacement tail rotor and balance bar connectors. Recommended for ages 14 and up.
Your phone isn’t the only thing that can morph into a remote. You can also use your iPod touch, iPad, Android tablets and laptops, just as long as you have the right operating system and wi-fi capabilities. Another bonus is that you don’t need to buy batteries, thanks to the handy 3.7V lithium battery that charges with the USB cable that comes with.
It might take a little time to master flying this copter through your touchscreen compared to the usual joystick remotes you’ve piloted with all your life. But practice makes perfect. In the box, you will get a replacement tail rotor and balance bar connectors for backup. However, you might want to add the company’s website, Interactive Toy Concepts, to your “favorites” in case you need to order more parts in the future.
Amazon and Target sell the Wi-Fli R/C Helicopter in the $40-$50 range.