Parrot combines with Tynker for new Mambo Code drone bundle

Today, Parrot has announced it is teaming up with Tynker to release a new education-focused drone that teaches kids how to code…and fly. The Parrot Mambo Code features eight iPad-driven courses along with hundreds of puzzle levels and tutorials. Parents will also be glad to see that the app ships with a virtual drone simulator, for first time pilots.

Parrot’s latest creation looks to cash in on the popular STEM education programs popping up across America. As coding initiatives continue to take off – from industry giants like Apple and Google – look for these types of products to continue to grow in popularity. Parrot has taken a cost-effective approach to its latest release, particularly when you consider the amount of content loaded into this new bundle.

Priced at $149, the Parrot Mambo Code isn’t going to compare to any of DJI’s offerings in terms of features or capabilities. But that isn’t the point. By coming in at over 50% less on the price point, Parrot opens itself up to a new consumer base that is looking for affordability over features. And as an education-focused product, pricing here is paramount.

The coding portion of Mambo is geared towards kids aged 7-14 years old. Like other STEM-focused products that we’ve seen in the past, the initial setup requires users to complete a series of tasks that enable different features. First time pilots can practice in the virtual simulator first prior to executing skills in real life. Not only is this helpful for learning the ins-and-outs of drone piloting, but it can also serve as way to engage students even if the quadcopter is in use.

My personal favorite feature of Parrot’s latest release is the add-ons such as a cannon and grabber. It ships with 50 NERF-style balls that can be shot out at unsuspecting enemies. You won’t find that feature on the DJI Spark, that’s for sure. There’s also some Minecraft integration here, which I’m really excited about. You can build your own virtual courses on a supplied private server and then fly your drone through it. This type of feature is sure to get students excited about what’s possible with Mambo.

The new Parrot Mambo Code is available for purchase today for a bundled price of $149.99. Additional add-ons like an extra controller or cannon are also up for sale starting at $20. If you’re interested in purchasing the previously released Mambo, minus the coding features, it is currently available for $120.
[9to5-press-release]

Tynker and Parrot Launch “Parrot Mambo Code” ー All-in-One Bundle to Teach Kids to Program Parrot Drones

New Bundle Includes Parrot Mambo Minidrone, Six-Month Tynker Subscription, and Virtual Drone Flight Simulation Course–All for Only US$149

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. & SAN FRANCISCO–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Tynker, the game-based platform that is teaching over 50 million kids how to code, and Parrota leading developer of advanced consumer electronics products, have launched an all-in-one Parrot Mambo Code bundle. The bundle, which includes a Parrot Mambo minidrone and a six-month premium subscription to Tynker, teaches kids coding skills through play with drones. The minidrone comes complete with a mini-ball launcher, grabber, 50 plastic balls, USB cable, and battery; the Tynker subscription includes eight mobile (iPad) coding courses, 18 online coding courses, over 350 puzzle levels, more than 100 tutorials, and a virtual drone flight simulation course.

The all-inclusive bundle is available to consumers for just $149 via Parrotand Tynker*.

The Parrot Mambo minidrone is a lightweight, robust drone that’s easy to pilot, even for first-time users. It embeds high precision sensors to guarantee remarkable stability with the simple and intuitive controls in the FreeFlight mini smartphone application. Two connected accessories  the launcher and grabber  it turns your environment into a playground! Kids can conduct speed or skill races, acrobatic challenges or tricks, and even take on aerial combat with a launcher and plastic balls.

“We are committed to helping kids become makers and doers, teaching them how to code while encouraging them to see their code in action, or in this case ‘in flight,’” said Tynker co-founder and CTO, Srinivas Mandyam. “We’ve seen an overwhelming interest in drones among kids and parents and are excited to deepen our partnership with Parrot to unveil a comprehensive, out-of-the-box experience that inspires the next generation through game-based learning.”

Tynker’s drone coding lessons offer a straightforward, structured approach to get kids aged 7-14 ー even those with no prior experience ー flying drones in minutes. New pilots can practice their drone flying skills in a virtual environment before they are ready to execute the commands on a real drone. The curriculum includes 10 scaffolded lessons and introduces kids to safe and fun drone-flying, while also teaching programming concepts. Sample missions include:

  • Programming a drone’s flight path from takeoff to landing
  • Building a drone controller to pilot a drone in real time
  • Programming flips, turns, and other aerial stunts
  • Integrating loops and variables to make geometric patterns
  • Coding games such as Flappy Drone and drone racing
  • Taking an aerial photo and sharing it with friends or classmates

“Drones and robotics will create jobs in the coming years, and it is important for people to understand this technology now. Today, we are giving kids and students access and experience with this drone technology,” said Jérôme Bouvard, Head of Parrot Education. “We are very pleased with the collaboration with Tynker, which helps in raising overall drone knowledge, spreading the message that drones are super fun, and highlighting the useful, positive applications for drone technology.”

Parrot Mambo Code is available to consumers on the Parrot and Tynker websites for $149, a bundled savings of $66. Tynker’s coding courses are already supported by eight additional Parrot Minidrones; those that own a compatible drone may purchase the Tynker Home Plan to add programmable capabilities. The launch of Parrot Mambo Code marks the first time consumers can purchase the two in tandem.

About Tynker

Tynker’s award-winning creative computing platform helps children develop computational thinking and programming skills in a fun, intuitive, and imaginative way. The platform is used by one in three U.S. K-8 schools and 50 million kids, spanning over 200 countries. Tynker was founded by a seasoned team of technology entrepreneurs who share a passion for giving children the critical life skills needed to become leaders in the technologies of tomorrow. Global partners include brands such as Apple, Microsoft, iDTech, Mattel, PBS, Sylvan Learning, and more.

About Parrot

Founded in 1994 by Henri Seydoux, Parrot creates, develops and markets advanced technology wireless products for consumers and professionals. The company builds on a common technological expertise to innovate and develop in three primary markets:

  • Civil drones: With recreational drones and solutions for professional use.
  • Connected objects: With a focus on audio and gardening.
  • Automotive: With the most extensive range of hands-free communication and infotainment systems for vehicles on the market.

Headquartered in Paris, Parrot currently employs more than 700 people worldwide and generates the majority of its sales overseas.

[/9to5-press-release]

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