Robolink, makers of CoDrone EDU and one of Inc. 5000’s fastest-growing private companies for 2025, today announces CoDrone EDU Plus — a powerful new programmable drone that puts coding, computer vision, and future careers directly into the hands of students.
Already recognized as a CES 2026 Innovation Awards Honoree, CoDrone EDU Plus builds on Robolink’s classroom-trusted CoDrone EDU platform with front- and bottom-facing programmable cameras, object detection, and computer vision tools that help students learn how machines see, classify, and make decisions. The drone is being unveiled this month at the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) conference in Orlando, FL.
What’s New with CoDrone EDU Plus:
- Programmable front and bottom cameras with file encryption, no audio recording, local encrypted storage, and camera security features designed for schools.
- Computer vision and object detection, including AprilTags, ArUco markers, shape detection, and trained machine learning models.
- A new TI-powered board, part of Robolink’s ongoing collaboration with Texas Instruments.
- New career-connected lessons, currently being tested and co-designed with teachers and students, that take students deeper into autonomous systems, real-world applications, and foundational AI skills.
CoDrone EDU Plus is a camera- and computer vision-enabled drone that is also built for classroom management and school privacy needs. From encrypted files to physical camera controls, CoDrone EDU Plus protects student privacy while helping educators introduce emerging technologies in a hands-on, age-appropriate way.
“CoDrone EDU Plus is the culmination of years of experience and listening to our community,” said Wesley Hsu, Chief Product Officer at Robolink. “We kept all of the things our community loves about our drones, and improved on the things people asked for. With two cameras, better sensors, privacy in mind, easier maintenance, we’ve created a tool that helps students learn real-world industry skills in robotics and engineering. For example, they’re not just learning about sensor inputs like cameras and distance sensors, they’re learning how a drone or robot can make decisions by recognizing objects with a camera.”
From the Little Drone That Did, to Redefining AI Learning
CoDrone EDU Plus still includes everything educators already loved about Robolink: safe, durable, fixable hardware; a stable connection for flying multiple drones; COPPA/FERPA compliance; and a free curriculum with standards-aligned, career-connected lessons created by CSTA Fellows with classroom experience. All of Robolink’s drones, from CoDrone EDU to CoDrone EDU Plus, are designed for indoor classroom use and do not require FAA certifications.
Today, CoDrone EDU is used in over 9,000 U.S. schools and 55 countries, and has been the official drone of the REC Foundation’s Aerial Drone Competition and trusted by partners like the U.S. Army JROTC and Air Force JROTC.
Why it Matters
- Drones are already transforming industries from film & entertainment to conservation.
- Students and teachers can now simulate those use cases in class.
- Beyond coding, STEM, and CTE skills, with CoDrone EDU Plus students will also gain foundational knowledge about AI, including sensor inputs and computer vision.
Co-Designed with Educators, Built for Classrooms
“We’re proud to have co-designed CoDrone EDU Plus with school leaders, classroom teachers, and students,” said Hansol Hong, CEO of Robolink. “With every feature and lesson, educators have helped shape them alongside our designers and engineers.”
That collaboration continues this summer, as Robolink works with students and teachers to help test and co-design the CoDrone EDU Plus curriculum — with more curricula set to be available for the 2026–27 school year.
CoDrone EDU Plus will be available for K-12 schools and districts to pre-order in August at robolink.com/plus.
About Robolink
Robolink makes career-launching STEM drones and learning experiences for grades 5 and up. From the first line of Python to first flight, CoDrone EDU helps students build real-world skills in STEM, CS, and engineering — supported by a free curriculum and nationwide competitions. Robolink is trusted in over 9,000 schools and partners with the REC Foundation, U.S. Army JROTC, and now Texas Instruments Education. Let’s make futures take flight.
View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260624416332/en/
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