Intel takes to the skies with US$60m stake in Chinese drone player Yuneec

27 Aug 2015

Intel has invested more than US$60m in Chinese drone company Yuneec, spelling an interesting future for emerging drone technology.

Intel has invested more than US$60m in Chinese drone company Yuneec, a move that could have exciting implications for the future of computing and the internet of things.

This year, Shanghai-based Yuneec improved its Typhoon Q500 quadcopter by adding a 4K camera, introducing a steady grip that turns the Typhoon into an air and ground imaging solution, and new features like WatchMe for capturing flawless videos.

As well as drones, Yuneec also makes technology that powers manned electric aircraft.

The move comes just days after another Chinese drone company, EHANG, raised US$42m in Series B funding.

How Yuneec will help Intel achieve a smart and connected world

This means that China now has three major drone companies with an international focus when you count in DJI, which was recently valued at over US$8bn after raising US$130m in venture capital.

This is Intel’s largest investment yet in a drone company. It has previously invested in Airware and PrecisionHawk.

“At Intel we believe in a smart and connected world,” Intel CEO Brian Krzanich said.

“And one of the best ways to bring that smart and connected world to everyone and everywhere has been drones.”

John Kennedy is a journalist who served as editor of Silicon Republic for 17 years

editorial@siliconrepublic.com