The demand for advanced radiometric thermal imaging in drones is growing, leaving many professionals seeking alternatives to DJI. A key question arises: will Autel drones, specifically those equipped with FLIR Boson cores, ever offer this crucial functionality? This exploration delves into the current state of FLIR and Autel integration, examining user inquiries and industry speculation regarding a potential radiometric Autel drone.
The Search for a Radiometric Autel Drone
Users actively seeking a DJI alternative have directly inquired with FLIR about the possibility of a radiometric Boson core. Conflicting reports have emerged, with some, like attendees of a FLIR sUAS Thermography class, receiving affirmative answers, while others, including attempts to contact FLIR support, have been met with silence. Online resources, such as FLIR’s own customer support forum, offer a glimpse into potential future radiometric capabilities of the Boson, but lack concrete timelines or confirmations. This ambiguity fuels speculation and underscores the desire for a clear roadmap from FLIR and Autel.
Autel Evo 2: A Potential Contender?
The Autel Evo 2 has garnered significant attention as a potential DJI competitor. Its advanced features and competitive pricing make it an attractive option for many drone professionals. However, a crucial question remains: does the Evo 2, particularly the Dual model with its FLIR Boson sensor, support the generation of RJPEG files required for processing in FLIR Tools? Current evidence suggests this is unlikely, potentially limiting the Evo 2’s appeal to those reliant on FLIR Tools for thermal data analysis.
Autel’s Response and the Future of FLIR Autel Collaboration
While Autel has acknowledged that its engineers are exploring the possibility of a radiometric version, no official announcements regarding release dates or specific plans have been made. This leaves the future of FLIR and Autel’s collaboration in the radiometric thermal imaging space uncertain. The potential for an Autel drone equipped with a fully radiometric FLIR Boson core could significantly disrupt the market, offering professionals a viable alternative to DJI. However, until concrete information emerges, users seeking this functionality are left in a state of anticipation.
Conclusion: The Demand for a Radiometric Autel Drone Remains
The need for a high-quality, radiometric thermal imaging drone outside the DJI ecosystem is evident. While rumors and user inquiries suggest a potential future for a Flir Autel solution, concrete details remain elusive. Autel’s development of a radiometric-capable drone would undoubtedly reshape the landscape, empowering users with greater choice and flexibility in their thermal imaging workflows. For now, the drone community awaits further announcements from Autel regarding its plans for integrating advanced radiometric capabilities into its future drone offerings.
