Introduction
Parrot, a company known for its innovative approach to drone design, has made a strong comeback in the prosumer market with the release of the Anafi AI+ in January 2025. Building upon the groundbreaking features of its predecessor, the Anafi AI, this new model introduces several key improvements that cater to the needs of professional aerial photographers and videographers. In this review, we’ll explore how the Anafi AI+ stands out in an increasingly competitive drone market.
Review
The most notable feature of the Parrot Anafi AI+ is its unique design. Unlike traditional quadcopters, the Anafi AI+ features a bi-copter configuration with two large, counter-rotating propellers. This innovative design not only reduces the drone’s overall size and weight but also improves its stability in flight, especially in windy conditions. The folding mechanism has been refined, allowing the drone to be packed down to an incredibly compact size, making it one of the most portable professional-grade drones on the market.
At the heart of the Anafi AI+ is its impressive camera system. Parrot has equipped this drone with a large 1-inch CMOS sensor capable of capturing 48MP stills and recording 6K video at 30fps or 4K at 60fps. The camera is mounted on a unique 3-axis gimbal that allows for an unprecedented 310-degree tilt range, including the ability to look straight up. This feature opens up new creative possibilities for aerial cinematography that are simply not possible with most other drones.
One of the standout features of the Anafi AI+ is its advanced AI-powered flight system. The drone utilizes a combination of visual, thermal, and ultrasonic sensors to create a detailed 3D map of its environment in real-time. This allows for extremely precise obstacle avoidance and enables the drone to navigate complex environments autonomously. The system is complemented by Parrot’s new Deep Learning Object Detection algorithm, which can identify and track multiple subjects simultaneously with remarkable accuracy.
Parrot has made significant improvements to the Anafi AI+’s connectivity. The drone now features 5G capability, allowing for ultra-low latency control and real-time video streaming at distances of up to 15km. This extended range and improved connectivity make the Anafi AI+ an excellent choice for long-range inspection tasks or cinematography in remote locations.
The Anafi AI+ introduces a new modular design that allows for easy customization and upgrades. The drone features a universal payload port that can accommodate various sensors and accessories, from multispectral cameras for agricultural applications to LiDAR sensors for 3D mapping. This flexibility makes the Anafi AI+ adaptable to a wide range of professional use cases.
Battery life has been significantly improved in the Anafi AI+. The drone can now stay airborne for up to 40 minutes on a single charge, putting it on par with some of the best drones in its class. Parrot has also introduced a new quick-charge feature that can replenish the battery to 80% in just 30 minutes, minimizing downtime between flights.
The controller for the Anafi AI+ has been completely redesigned. It now features a large 7-inch HD touchscreen with 1000 nits of brightness, ensuring clear visibility even in bright sunlight. The controller runs on Android, allowing for easy installation of third-party apps and customization of the user interface. Parrot has also introduced a new SDK that allows developers to create custom applications and flight modes for the Anafi AI+, further expanding its capabilities.
On the software side, Parrot has introduced several new intelligent flight modes and photogrammetry features. The updated PhotogrammetryPro mode can automatically capture images for creating highly detailed 3D models, while the new TimeLapse+ mode combines time-lapse photography with automated flight paths for creating stunning dynamic shots.
Conclusion
The Parrot Anafi AI+ represents a bold step forward in drone technology. Its innovative bi-copter design, advanced AI capabilities, and modular architecture set it apart from the competition. While it may not match the brand recognition of some industry leaders, the Anafi AI+ offers a compelling alternative for professionals seeking a highly capable and adaptable drone platform. As we move further into 2025, it’s clear that Parrot is positioning itself as a serious contender in the high-end drone market, and the Anafi AI+ is a testament to their commitment to innovation and performance.
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