In early December, drone maker DJI introduced new features to its AeroScope remote identification system that functions as an “electronic license plate” for drones. The company said the new features allow drone pilots to “voluntarily identify” their flight operations to authorities while still protecting their privacy and allowing authorities to remotely identify and track drones. DJI is working to expand the related broadcast protocol for other drone manufacturers.

AeroScope uses the existing communications link between a drone and its remote controller to broadcast identification information up to 2.7 nm, such as a registration or serial number, as well as basic telemetry, including location, altitude, speed, and direction. Authorities equipped with AeroScope receivers will be able to use this data. AeroScope does not broadcast personally identifiable information, according to DJI. Recent updates to the DJI GO 4 app and DJI drone firmware allow pilots to choose whether or not to broadcast additional information about their flight operations. “Professional pilots and pilots who fly near sensitive locations may choose to do this routinely,” DJI noted.

The system works via the DJI GO 4 app that displays a “remote identification” menu in the main controller settings. The menu gives pilots the option to broadcast their “UUID,” a unique user identification code, tied to each pilot’s DJI GO account, and “Identification & Flight Information,” if a pilot chooses to enter information into them. The default setting for both options is to not broadcast them, but these settings can be changed by the user. DJI said that because AeroScope relies on drones directly broadcasting their information to local receivers, not on transmitting data to an Internet-based service, it ensures most drone flights will not be automatically recorded in government databases, protecting the privacy of drone users and avoiding the costs and complexities of networks and databases.

“Governments around the world have expressed interest in requiring mandatory tracking and identification of drones. DJI has led the drone industry in arguing against proposals to require all drone flights to be tracked and recorded in government databases, many of which would require drones to be modified with special equipment that would add weight to drones, drain battery life, and impose costs on drone pilots,” the company said.