Linux Foundation, Qualcomm and Intel launch open source drone project

The Linux Foundation and tech companies have announced the start of the so-called Dronecode Project. The project brings together several existing software projects to create a shared open source platform for software for unmanned aerial vehicles.

In addition to the Linux Foundation, Intel, Baidu, Box and Qualcomm, among others, have initiated the initiative, as well as drone companies such as 3D Robotics, Agribotix and Walkera. For example, 3D Robotics will make its software and associated code available for the Dronecode project.

The ultimate goal is to create a shared open source platform for unmanned aircraft software, with Dronecode serving as an umbrella for other projects such as APM/ArduPilot, Mission Planner, MAVLink, and DroidPlanner. Currently, more than 1,200 developers are said to be working on code covered by Dronecode and more than 150 commits per day. The project should provide further support to the participating organizations in seeking financing and other necessities.

The Linux Foundation notes that drones are on the rise and that they can be used for wildlife surveys, rescue missions, as well as for military purposes. According to the organizations behind it, the aim of the Dronecode project is to promote the development of drones, making them more efficient, reliable and cheaper.