Technology is a sector that is growing at an exponential rate with new ideas and products constantly being developed. One of main innovations currently in development is drones. These drones can be programmed for various tasks like delivering packages, distributing Wi-Fi, and creating electricity. Although intriguing, there are many complexities and concerns with the current products; keeping them off the market for at least five years. Most of the concerns involve malfunction leading to harm of others or impeding the task they provide. Most of the drones that are being developed aren’t even within the operating standard or regulations to be released. Mainly due to safety concerns and the fact that these drones would be almost completely autonomous.

In my opinion, the most potential is seen in the “delivery drone.” There have been multiple successful trial runs. However, as I mentioned, there are many complexities, such as, the mapping of the route and avoiding objects that might be in the way of the drone. The main goal of this specific drone is to order a package or item, then minutes later a drone would have it at your doorstep; providing an “instant delivery.” This alternate delivery is “faster, quieter and more environmentally friendly than large delivery trucks.” [1]

The main use for this drone is delivering packages to the average consumer; however, huge potential can be seen in providing medical and emergency equipment in remote areas. In the Lower Mainland, many people get lost in the mountains and forests, some of which may be injured or need medical equipment. Imagine if you could simply press a button and almost instantly receive the care you need in a package. This is now not just a product for convenience of consumers, but now something that could potentially save lives.

The real question is: if these drones are practical? And will they do so in a safe matter? These drones run into the same issue as the autonomous driving cars we discussed in lecture. They are not operated by humans and simply are controlled by themselves, there is the question of what happens when someone gets hurt or damage is caused? Who is to blame? This issue is being tended to the most. These companies are trying to develop better software and stronger system to control these drones and ensure there are no malfunctions and everything works smoothly. Meaning that no harm is done to anyone or any collisions with other objects. This is thought “to take a decade to solve.”[2] If these issues can be solved then I think these drones will serve a real purpose as both a consumer item and emergency “rescue.”

Word count: 442

[1] https://www.economist.com/news/technology-quarterly/21723002-carrying-cargo-lot-more-complicated-carrying-camera-why-wait

[2] https://www.economist.com/news/technology-quarterly/21723002-carrying-cargo-lot-more-complicated-carrying-camera-why-wait

Image: https://www.flexport.com/blog/deploying-drones-self-driving-trucks/