AV News: Drone Delivery on Hole 9

There’s nothing like getting out on a golf course on a beautiful summer day. But don’t go looking for a beverage cart at one course in Japan, because you won’t find one. Rakuten, the online shopping giant, is venturing into the drone delivery business, but unlike Amazon they are starting small delivering goods to golfers. The monthlong experiment began May 9th at Camel Golf Resort in Chiba Prefecture. Golfers use an Android app to order food, drinks, and equipment at fixed pick up points. The app verifies orders and gives notifications for departure and delivery. Users must have a Rakuten membership to use the service, since payment is processed through the online store. Tenku, the delivery drone being used, was developed by Rakuten and Autonomous Control Systems Laboratory in Chiba. They say the drone is equipped with a load-release feature and new image technology to make landing safer. Follow AirVuz News for the latest updates in the drone community.