Brands that previously launched the X1 series of dronesHOVER AirThe new device showcased at CES 2026 is the HOVER Air Aqua, designed for water activities and emphasizing IP67 waterproof rating across the entire device.
Unlike previous drones, the HOVER Air Aqua cannot be folded and stored like the X1 series, nor can it take off from the user's palm using a protective net on the rotor.NoteHowever, its most distinctive feature is the inclusion of an IP67-rated waterproof and dustproof system across the entire machine, along with a floating mechanism to meet the aerial photography needs of users during water activities.
Note:If you grab the top of the drone, it's actually possible to take off from your hand. However, since the drone doesn't have an additional protective net for the rotor, it could be quite dangerous. HOVER Air explained that the reason for not having a protective net on this drone is primarily to avoid creating more drag during takeoff from water.
In addition to being fully waterproof and able to float on water, and taking off directly from the water, the HOVER Air Aqua also allows the drone to flip over and take off if it is floating upside down on the water by rotating the rotors.
In terms of controls, the HOVER Air Aqua can also be operated with gestures, or the shooting mode can be adjusted through the buttons on the body, and the current flight mode can be determined by the corresponding image displayed on the screen. At the same time, the rotor noise during the shooting process can be eliminated through AI technology.
However, to address the issue that it is not easy to intuitively operate the drone through gestures during water activities, an additional wearable controller is provided, allowing users to remotely operate the drone. It can also be used as a positioning device, enabling the drone to continuously track and film the user, and even to track the drone's location.
As for the shooting functions, they are basically the same as the X1 series, supporting automatic face recognition and automated shooting. Thanks to its waterproof design, it can be used on land without any problems, and even supports shooting in the rain.
Currently, HOVER Air Aqua has been approved.Indiegogo crowdfunding platformFundraising is underway, and the official launch is expected within this year.
The earlier launch of the HOVER Air X1 series attracted DJI to follow suit and release its own version.Neo series dronesPerhaps we will see DJI launch similar products in the future?
