The world has become a technology hub, and everything we do depends on Wi-Fi. Whether it’s buying something, paying your bills, taking classes, or watching movies; everything relies on a strong internet connection. Therefore, it is natural for people to wonder whether equipment like drones use the internet, and if they do, how much data does a drone use?
Typically, drones do not use a large amount of data and can manage their flight just fine without using the internet. However, you need to know exactly when your drone requires the services of the internet, and at what times can you turn the data off.
Does a drone use the internet to fly?
The answer is no; drones do not require a Wi-Fi connection to fly. Even the most technologically advanced drones don’t use data or Wi-Fi to fly. An internet connection is required when you want additional features for your drone, and usually, a drone is usable without those extra features.
Some people prefer to fly the drone using a flight app installed on phones. Therefore, they will need a data connection to download the app. This app isn’t necessary for your drone to fly; you can use the controller that comes with the drone too. The remote controller relies on radio waves to maintain its connection with the drone, and hence, a Wi-Fi connection is not needed.
Can my drone require internet service at some point?
If you want additional features for your drone, a Wi-Fi connection can become a necessity to use those features. A common feature that uses data is live streaming: many people use drones to record and live stream events. However, the use of this feature is also entirely dependent on your choice.
If you want your drone to use a specific amount of data while it uses features like live streaming, you should monitor the data usage of the live stream video quality and the application you are using to live stream.
Furthermore, data is used to refine the maps of your drone. Although the GPS of the drone works offline, Wi-Fi can be used to triangulate a more accurate position of your drone. This feature won’t use much data either.
Data can also be needed when you want to use the Follow me option of GPS on your drone. This feature will come in handy when you are cycling or skating, and want your drone to follow you around. Although some technologically advanced drones use visual sensors to use the follow me option, traditional drones use an internet connection.
How does a drone fly without the internet?
Now you must be wondering, if a drone doesn’t use WiFi or data, how does it operate, and how is it controlled? Most drones come with a remote controller, and the primary mechanism of operation of the drone is using the controller. The controller and drone communicate via wireless signals in the form of radio waves. These signals need to be of the same frequency for both the controller and the drone.
You can watch this video to further understand how a drone can work without the internet:
So, your drone can work properly without a WiFi connection. You only require one when you want to use some additional features and get a more advanced experience of drone flying. The choice is yours!
