GoPro launched its drone last summer, but had to recall it due to a power failure, while 3D Robotics, a well-funded drone startup, changed its focus to enterprise applications after losing millions of dollars when its flagship consumer drone flopped. Earlier this week, French electronics company Parrot laid off a third of its drone division due to a drop in sales. The Inspire, made by the world’s largest consumer drone manufacturer, requires another person to operate via remote control. In a world where pre-orders can be used to kick-start consumer excitement, Lily’s shutdown may test consumer’s faith in crowdfunded projects. While every tech entrepreneur seems to have a big vision, marketing and allegedly made-up videos can only get so far.

Source: Forbes January 14, 2017 01:31 UTC