Microsoft to present its new Azure AI drone capability software at the UK Drone Show

Microsoft and DJI will be showcasing their new drone control SDK for Windows 10 live at the UK Drone Show this December. The latest collaboration between these industry giants will allow developers to build apps on the Microsoft OS that control the drones sold by DJI, the world’s largest drone manufacturer.

The purpose of this new drone SDK is to give businesses more ways to quickly deploy AI-powered drones for security or maintenance tasks, as well as any other uses that can be automated via computer vision. As well as the drones themselves, other hardware that they can carry can also be accessed and controlled via the SDK, such as sensors or even robotic components. The number crunching can be done by either by Microsoft’s Azure cloud technology, Azure IoT tech on the drone, or on a Windows 10 laptop.

Oliver O’Brien from UK Drone Show commented: “We’re delighted to be able to give Microsoft and DJI the platform to introduce their new technology to the UK. The commercial use of drones is a huge growth area at the moment, and the UK government and airspace regulator have recognised this. This new partnership between Microsoft and DJI is just one of many cutting-edge technologies we will have on display that are making the commercial use of drones easier to implement.”

Sam George, Director, Azure Internet of Things of Microsoft said: “Earlier this year we announced a $5 billion investment in IoT and the intelligent edge to continue innovation, strategic partnerships, and programs. Our strategic partnership with DJI will continue to push the boundaries of what is possible, and we look forward to seeing what our joint customers go on to build.”

The 2018 UK Drone and Technology Show Live will be hosting many commercial drone exhibitors, including the Civil Aviation Authority who regulate the use of the technology by businesses. They are sponsoring prizes in the “Perfect Capture 2018” drone photography competition being awarded at the event, open to both amateur and professional drone users.

As well as receiving information and advice on using drones for business from the CAA, visitors will be able to talk to professional drone training organisations such as Drone Partners and Droneflight, insurance specialists like Coverdrone, and listen to keynote talks from UK drone industry leaders. Aerial imaging fans will find the latest gear on show from Sony, Jessops and London Camera Exchange.

Unlike traditional trade shows, the UK Drone Show is open to all and is co-located with the Technology Show Live, which means there’ll be plenty of Christmas shopping for consumer gadgets and tech available, as well as live demonstration areas hosted by The Gadget Show’s Jason Bradbury. AMG Mercedes and Tesla will also be demonstrating their latest automotive technologies.

For a bit of adrenaline-fuelled action, the event will also be hosting the European Masters Drone Racing event, with a purse of £10,000 up for grabs to some of the world’s top pilots who will be showing off their skills in this new invitational event to the world drone racing calendar.

The UK Drone and Technology Show Live is at the National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham, on Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd December 2018. Advance tickets are available now from www.techshowlive.com