After a three-month break, the GoPro Inc (NASDAQ:GPRO) Karma drone is back on sale. In November last year, 2,500 units of the drone had been recalled following reports that they had a fault which was causing them to lose power midflight and consequently making them crash to the ground.
“Safety is our biggest priority, so this decision came after we learned that a small number of Karma units were experiencing power loss mid-flight,” a statement from the company read.
The recall of the drones was done despite the fact that the company wasn’t legally obligated to do so. Though no injuries had been reported, the company chose not to take any chances.
Loose battery latch
In an online posting, the karma drone maker has revealed that the battery latch of the new drones has been redesigned. This indicates that the loss of power that the old drones were experiencing was being caused by the battery falling out of place. At the time of the recall, reports had surfaced indicating that the drone’s front-heavy design was responsible for the fault. This is because the drone had to vibrate more than regular drones in order to maintain balance. Vibrating more consequently led to the detachable battery getting loose.
Unlike other traditional drones which have their cameras underneath them, the camera of the the GoPro karma drone is on the front which is what makes it heavier at the front. One advantage that the karma drone enjoys over the other drones, however, is that it is smaller and therefore more portable.
Removable stabilizer gimbal
Another feature that allows the GoPro Karma drone to stand out is its removable stabilizer gimbal which is attachable to the Karma Grip handle. These two, when connected, allow the GoPro camera to be used on the drone and record video that is not shaky.
It is not clear how the recall will affect GoPro but competition is expected to be tough to regain its market share. Already other similar drones have been launched in the intervening period.
In Wednesday’s trading session, GoPro Inc rose by 3.78 percent to close the day at $10.97.