MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. & SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Tynker, the game-based platform that is teaching over 50 million kids how to code, and Parrot, a leading developer of advanced consumer electronics products, have launched an all-in-one Parrot Mambo Code bundle. The bundle, which includes a Parrot Mambo minidrone and a six-month premium subscription to Tynker, teaches kids coding skills through play with drones. The minidrone comes complete with a mini-ball launcher, grabber, 50 plastic balls, USB cable, and battery; the Tynker subscription includes eight mobile (iPad) coding courses, 18 online coding courses, over 350 puzzle levels, more than 100 tutorials, and a virtual drone flight simulation course.
The all-inclusive bundle is available to consumers for just $149 via Parrot and Tynker*.
The Parrot Mambo minidrone is a lightweight, robust drone that’s easy to pilot, even for first-time users. It embeds high precision sensors to guarantee remarkable stability with the simple and intuitive controls in the FreeFlight mini smartphone application. Two connected accessories ー the launcher and grabber ー it turns your environment into a playground! Kids can conduct speed or skill races, acrobatic challenges or tricks, and even take on aerial combat with a launcher and plastic balls.
“We are committed to helping kids become makers and doers, teaching them how to code while encouraging them to see their code in action, or in this case ‘in flight,’” said Tynker co-founder and CTO, Srinivas Mandyam. “We’ve seen an overwhelming interest in drones among kids and parents and are excited to deepen our partnership with Parrot to unveil a comprehensive, out-of-the-box experience that inspires the next generation through game-based learning.”
Tynker’s drone coding lessons offer a straightforward, structured approach to get kids aged 7-14 ー even those with no prior experience ー flying drones in minutes. New pilots can practice their drone flying skills in a virtual environment before they are ready to execute the commands on a real drone. The curriculum includes 10 scaffolded lessons and introduces kids to safe and fun drone-flying, while also teaching programming concepts. Sample missions include:
- Programming a drone’s flight path from takeoff to landing
- Building a drone controller to pilot a drone in real time
- Programming flips, turns, and other aerial stunts
- Integrating loops and variables to make geometric patterns
- Coding games such as Flappy Drone and drone racing
- Taking an aerial photo and sharing it with friends or classmates
“Drones and robotics will create jobs in the coming years, and it is important for people to understand this technology now. Today, we are giving kids and students access and experience with this drone technology,” said Jérôme Bouvard, Head of Parrot Education. “We are very pleased with the collaboration with Tynker, which helps in raising overall drone knowledge, spreading the message that drones are super fun, and highlighting the useful, positive applications for drone technology.”
Parrot Mambo Code is available to consumers on the Parrot and Tynker websites for $149, a bundled savings of $66. Tynker’s coding courses are already supported by eight additional Parrot Minidrones; those that own a compatible drone may purchase the Tynker Home Plan to add programmable capabilities. The launch of Parrot Mambo Code marks the first time consumers can purchase the two in tandem.
To download the Tynker mobile apps, please visit www.tynker.com/mobile.
To download the press kit, please visit www.tynker.com/about/press.
*www.parrot.com/minidrones/parrot-mambo-code
*www.tynker.com/learn-to-code/code-this-drone
About Tynker
Tynker’s award-winning creative computing platform helps children develop computational thinking and programming skills in a fun, intuitive, and imaginative way. The platform is used by one in three U.S. K-8 schools and 50 million kids, spanning over 200 countries. Tynker was founded by a seasoned team of technology entrepreneurs who share a passion for giving children the critical life skills needed to become leaders in the technologies of tomorrow. Global partners include brands such as Apple, Microsoft, iDTech, Mattel, PBS, Sylvan Learning, and more.
For more information, please visit www.tynker.com, like us on Facebook (facebook.com/GoTynker), and follow us on Twitter @GoTynker.
About Parrot
Founded in 1994 by Henri Seydoux, Parrot creates, develops and markets advanced technology wireless products for consumers and professionals. The company builds on a common technological expertise to innovate and develop in three primary markets:
- Civil drones: With recreational drones and solutions for professional use.
- Connected objects: With a focus on audio and gardening.
- Automotive: With the most extensive range of hands-free communication and infotainment systems for vehicles on the market.
Headquartered in Paris, Parrot currently employs more than 700 people worldwide and generates the majority of its sales overseas.
Parrot has been listed on Euronext Paris since 2006. (FR0004038263 – PARRO)
For more information, please visit www.parrot.com.
