September 15th, 2008
First Flying Toy with Sensor-Based Navigation Launches
HONG KONG - September 2008 - WowWee, an Optimal Group company (NASDAQ:OPMR), announces the launch of FlyTech Bladestar™, a revolutionary indoor flying machine set to change helicopter flight as we know it today. The first flying toy with sensor-based navigation, the FlyTech Bladestar flyer glides through the air using two wings that spin with helicopter-like movement. Built-in infrared sensors allow the flyer to detect and avoid ceilings, walls, and other obstacles autonomously. Innovative design coupled with infrared technology also allow for dueling capabilities, enabling two FlyTech Bladestar flyers to faceoff in aerial combat.
Made from ultra-light, flexible materials, the FlyTech Bladestar flyer is designed to be crash resistant. The flyer features a three-channel digital infrared controller that can be set to two different flight modes: autopilot mode, and RC (remote controller) mode. In autopilot mode, it will fly autonomously using its sensor-based navigation to avoid obstacles and ceilings, and users can even guide the flyer down a hallway or around a room using their hands. In RC mode, the user has complete control of the flyer via the throttle to control height and power and the directional pad to navigate.
Using a "dogfight" accessory that hones the controller's infrared signal, users can duel two FlyTech Bladestar flyers (each sold separately) in aerial combat. A simple press of the "fire" button on the controller enables users to fire invisible infrared beams at an opponent's flyer - a total of three hits will knock the player's Bladestar flyer from the skies.
The award-winning WowWee FlyTech line of aeronautical products launched in 2007 with the FlyTech Dragonfly, the world's first radio-controlled flyer to use flapping wings, which was named one of TIME Magazine's "Best Inventions of the Year." The FlyTech Dragonfly was based on an ornithopter design, the flight of birds and insects, whereas the FlyTech Bladestar flyer employs helicopter design coupled with infrared sensor detection.
The FlyTech Bladestar flyer will be available at all major retailers for an approximate retail price of $49.99. The flyer comes with 2 spare wings, 2 spare propellers, and a protective carrying case for easy storage.
About WowWee
WowWee, an Optimal Group company, is a leading designer, developer, marketer and distributor of innovative hi-tech consumer robotic and entertainment products. The WowWee group of companies maintains operations in Hong Kong, La Jolla, California and Montreal, Quebec.
For more information, please visit the Company's web site at www.wowwee.com.
Media Contacts
| Mike Rush 360 Public Relations 617-585-5792 mrush@360publicrelations.com |
Stacey Clement 360 Public Relations 617-585-5774 sclement@360publicrelations.com |