Autel Robotics has recently filed paperwork with the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC), signaling the potential arrival of its highly anticipated Alpha drone to the North American market. This move follows months of speculation and teasers positioning the Alpha as a direct competitor to DJI’s Matrice 30 series. Autel even offered a sneak peek of the Alpha at the Energy Drones and Robotics Coalition (EDRC) conference in Texas last June.
The FCC filing includes standard documentation, such as the mandatory FCC label and its placement on the drone. This documentation often precedes an official product launch, fueling the Autel Drone Rumors.
Industry whispers suggest the Autel Alpha boasts significant upgrades compared to the existing EVO MAX series. Leaked specifications point to a 35x optical zoom camera, dual thermal imaging sensors, a high-powered laser rangefinder, and a starlight night vision camera for superior low-light performance. Furthermore, the Alpha is rumored to have a 45-minute flight time, a 12-mile (20 km) transmission range, and comprehensive 360-degree obstacle avoidance. Robust anti-jamming capabilities against RFI/EMI/GPS spoofing and IP55 weatherproofing are also anticipated.
While Autel remains tight-lipped about the official release date, the FCC filing strongly suggests an imminent US launch. The appearance of the Alpha in the FCC database lends credence to the swirling Autel drone rumors and heightens anticipation among drone enthusiasts. This development indicates that the wait for concrete information might soon be over.