The Drone Scanner is a publicly accessible application designed for scanning Direct Remote ID signals through Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Drone Scanner enables users to visualize the current airspace including other participants using Remote Identification (Remote ID) data. Drone Scanner is designed to turn a phone or tablet into a drone scanner and track all the nearby flights over direct/broadcast Remote ID standards. Users can browse real-time data about drones on a detailed map highlighting specific flying space zones. The Drone Scanner is available to download for free.

User features include:​

• Discover more about drones flying nearby in real-time

• Examine detailed information broadcasted by drones via Bluetooth 4, Bluetooth 5, Wi-Fi Beacon, and Wi-Fi NAN

• The drone radar feature enables you to keep a vigilant eye on the surrounding airspace. It permits you to designate a specific aircraft as your own and will promptly notify you if any other aircraft approaches within a specified proximity threshold.

• Browse a detailed map with your location and all nearby aircraft

• Check available data about drones

• Easy export of collected data

• Continuously updated to reflect the latest EU & US regulations

Download Drone Scanner (gen. 2)​

Remote ID reception limitations​

However, it's important to note that the application's functionality is contingent upon the capabilities of the user's phone, potentially leading to limitations.

For instance, on iOS devices, the reception of Wi-Fi RID signals is restricted, resulting in the inability to detect drones using Wi-Fi for Remote ID, such as DJI drones and others. Android devices also have analogous constraints, with the application being reliant on the device's refresh rate. To address these limitations, we will introduce a new product that circumvents the phone's hardware, ensuring the reception of 100% RID signals. If you require more detailed information on this, we'd be happy to provide further clarification.

Some general information regarding the smartphone limitations can be found on a page we created here https://github.com/opendroneid/receiver-android/blob/master/supported-smartphones.md

Drone Scanner is currently installed on 150 thousand mobile devices worldwide.

Regarding the Drone Scanner's features, they are derived from our flagship multiplatform application, Dronetag. Dronetag serves as a comprehensive platform for receiving RID signals and managing Dronetag devices. This platform is widely adopted by our partners globally as a gateway for visualizing RID signals. We are proud to mention that our platform is utilized on an international scale. Dronetag's capabilities extend to receiving and visualizing all RID data, including the option to export data for additional processing.

Nevertheless, we have the capability to customize the application since the entire platform is proprietary and developed entirely by us. This enables us to tailor the application to specific requirements, incorporating features such as integration with external systems and data sharing. Lastly, we also develop a set of stationary and portable Remote ID receivers that will be able to utilize the Drone Scanner for visualization. If you have any inquiries or would like a more in-depth understanding, please feel free to reach out.

Privacy Policy for Drone Scanner
Last updated: May 28th, 2024

Thank you for choosing to be part of our community at Dronetag ("Company", "we", "us", "our"). We are the creators and maintainers of Drone Scanner, an app designed to help users scan and monitor drone activities. We are committed to protecting your personal information and your right to privacy. This Privacy Policy explains what information we collect, how we use it, and your rights regarding our practices. If you have any questions or concerns about this privacy policy, or our practices with regards to your personal information, please contact us at info@dronetag.com.

When you use our mobile application, Drone Scanner, you trust us with your personal information. We take your privacy very seriously and strive to be transparent about how we collect, use, and share your information.

What Information Do We Collect?​

Airspace Data​

While using the Drone Scanner App, airspace data is collected to facilitate the monitoring and analysis of drone activities within specified regions. We would like to assure you that:

• No Storage of Airspace Data: The airspace data collected through the Drone Scanner App is processed in real-time and is not stored on our servers or any other storage systems, except temporarily in your phone memory.
• No Sharing of Airspace Data: Consistent with our commitment to user privacy, any airspace data collected by the Drone Scanner App is used solely for its functional processing within the app and is never shared with any third parties, marketers, or other apps. We do not use this data for any commercial purposes nor do we distribute it externally in any form.

This approach ensures that all airspace data handled by Drone Scanner remains private and secure, aligning with our overarching privacy principles and commitment to protecting user data.

Maintenance Data​

In the course of providing our service, we collect information that, on its own, does not identify an individual directly. Here are the types of information we might collect:

• Mobile Device Access: We may request access or permission to certain features from your mobile device. If you wish to change our access or permissions, you may do so in your device's settings.
• Mobile Device Data: We automatically collect device information (such as your mobile device ID, model, and manufacturer), operating system, version information, and IP address.
• Performance and Log Data: Our servers automatically record information created by your use of the App, which can include information like crashes, system activity, hardware settings, browser type, browser language, the date and time of your requests, and similar.

The information we collect is used to operate, maintain, and provide the features and functionality of the Drone Scanner App. More specifically, we use the information to:

• Enhance the App Performance: To understand and analyze how you use the app, which helps us develop new features or enhance existing functionalities.
• Maintenance and Improvement: To identify any technical issues that may occur on our app and improve the overall performance.
• Security: To protect the App from fraud, maintain the security of our systems, and enforce our terms and conditions.

Will Your Information Be Shared With Anyone?​

We may disclose your information where required by law or if we genuinely believe it is necessary to:

• Comply with a legal obligation, court order, or in response to a law enforcement agency’s request.
• Protect the safety, rights, or property of the public, any person, or Drone Scanner.
• Prevent or stop any illegal, unethical, or legally actionable activity.

How Do We Keep Your Information Safe?​

We implement a variety of security measures designed to maintain the safety and integrity of your information. While we strive to use commercially acceptable means to protect your information, remember that no method of transmission over the Internet, or method of electronic storage is 100% secure.

Requirement for Phone Permissions​

To effectively perform its primary function of detecting drones in your vicinity, Drone Scanner requires access to certain phone permissions, specifically Bluetooth, WiFi, local network connections, and location, including background location permission. Below, we explain the necessity of each permission:

Bluetooth: Drone Scanner uses Bluetooth to detect nearby drones that use Bluetooth technology for communication or control. By scanning for Bluetooth signals, the app can identify drones within close range of your device, enhancing awareness and monitoring capabilities.

WiFi: Similar to Bluetooth, WiFi access allows Drone Scanner to detect drones that communicate or are controlled via WiFi networks. The app scans for WiFi signals that may be emitted by drones, helping to provide a comprehensive overview of drone activity in the area.

Local Networks: Access to local network information is crucial for the app to understand the network environment and detect any drone-related communications occurring through local network channels. This aids in providing a more accurate and detailed detection of drone presence.

Location Permissions, Including Background Location: Drone Scanner requires location permissions to calculate the distance between the user and the drones and to verify the data validity. This includes background location permission to ensure continuous and accurate monitoring, even when the app is not actively in use. Location data are never shared with any third party and are not processed on our servers.

These permissions are strictly used for the operational functionality of the Drone Scanner App and are crucial for the effective monitoring of drone activities around your area. Our use of these permissions is limited to the stated purpose of drone detection and does not extend to collecting personal data for marketing or any unrelated purposes.

By granting these permissions, you allow Drone Scanner to perform effectively, ensuring that you have real-time, accurate data about drone activities near you, enhancing both safety and awareness.

Changes to Our Privacy Policy​

We may update this privacy policy from time to time. The updated version will be indicated by an updated "Revised" date and the updated version will be effective as soon as it is accessible. We encourage you to review this privacy policy frequently to be informed of how we are protecting your information.

How Can You Contact Us About This Policy?​

If you have questions or comments about this policy, find the contact information at http://dronetag.com/contact.

Dronetag s.r.o.
Veltruská 602/16
190 00 Praha 9
Czech Republic

To let you experience the power of your Dronetag RIDER even without cellular connectivity, we've created a special experimental build of the Drone Scanner app, called Drone Scanner RIDER Preview to let you explore its features over Bluetooth and USB.

Why this special version?​

A fully offline-compatible Drone Scanner 2.0 is on the horizon, set to launch in summer 2025. However, we understand that you might want to start using your Dronetag RIDER over Bluetooth or USB now. That’s why we’ve released this modified version—so you can scan and connect without waiting for the full upgrade.

Where can I get this app?​

You can download this special version of the Drone Scanner app from the Downloads Section. Stay tuned for the official release of Drone Scanner 2.0!

How does this differ from the original Drone Scanner?​

The experimental version does not let you scan drones using your phone, but is built to be used exclusively with Dronetag RIDER.

What’s coming in Drone Scanner 2.0?​

Drone Scanner 2.0 will bring a range of powerful features to your Dronetag RIDER, including:

• Scan drones using your phone
• Scan drones via Bluetooth or USB with Dronetag RIDER
• Advanced filtering for better search results
• Tag and label scanned drones
• Store scanned data directly on your phone
• Enhanced maps and customization options
• Full Dronetag RIDER configuration support
• Radar functionality with customizable alert zones and whitelisting
• Drone manufacturer and model recognition
• Export locally collected data with advanced options
• Trust rating system to detect Remote ID spoofing
• Offline maps for seamless navigation

We do not release this preview version to app stores. We distribute this application via APK file for Android, or via TestFlight for iOS. Following are instructions to help you install the application on your device.

• On Android, use this link: drone-scanner-rider-preview-1_21_0-rider.apk
• On iOS, use this link: https://testflight.apple.com/join/J19jwUNT

Older APK versions​

• drone-scanner-rider-preview-1_20_2-rider.apk

Install on Android system (using APK file)​

Follow these steps to install and run it on your device.

Step 1: Enable Installation from Unknown Sources​

Since APK files are not installed via the Play Store, you need to allow your device to install apps from unknown sources. After you finish downloading our app, we recommend switching it back to protect your device from malicious sources.

On Android 8.0 and Newer:​

1. Open Settings on your phone.
2. Navigate to Apps & notifications (or Apps).
3. Scroll down and select the browser or file manager you will use to download/open the APK (e.g., Chrome, Files, etc.).
4. Tap Install unknown apps.
5. Toggle "Allow from this source" to ON.

On Android 7.0 and Older:​

1. Open Settings.
2. Navigate to Security (or Privacy).
3. Find Unknown sources and enable it.
4. Confirm by tapping OK.

Step 2: Download the APK File​

1. Download the APK file using this link
2. Wait for the download to complete.

Step 3: Install the APK​

1. Open the Files app (or your preferred file manager).
2. Navigate to the Downloads folder.
3. Tap the downloaded APK file.
4. A prompt will appear asking for confirmation—tap Install.
5. Wait for the installation to complete.

Step 4: Open the App​

1. Once installed, tap Open to launch the app immediately.
2. Alternatively, find the app on your home screen or in the app drawer.

Install on iOS system (using Apple TestFlight)​

You can download this version by using this TestFlight invitation link: https://testflight.apple.com/join/J19jwUNT

Follow these steps to install and test it on your iPhone or iPad.

Step 1: Install TestFlight​

Before you download our app, you need the TestFlight app installed on your device.

1. Open the App Store on your iPhone or iPad.
2. Search for "TestFlight" (by Apple).
3. Tap Download (or Get, if not installed).
4. Wait for the installation to complete.

Step 2: Open the TestFlight Invitation Link​

Once you have TestFlight installed:

1. Open this link
2. The link will automatically open in Safari (or another browser).
3. You will be redirected to a TestFlight preview page.

Step 3: Accept the invitation​

1. On the TestFlight preview page, tap "Start Testing".
2. TestFlight will open and display details about the app.
3. Tap "Accept" to join.

Step 4: Install the App​

1. After accepting the invitation, you will see an "Install" button in TestFlight.
2. Tap "Install", and the beta app will be downloaded to your device.
3. Once installed, you can open the app just like a regular app from your home screen.

This section will guide you through using Dronetag RIDER with the preview app. It covers supported platforms, connection methods, and step-by-step instructions for Bluetooth and USB connectivity.

Supported Platforms and Connection Types​

• Android: Supports connection over both Bluetooth and USB.
• iOS: Supports connection over Bluetooth only (USB connection is not supported).

Bluetooth Connection​

Prerequisites​

• Ensure that your Dronetag RIDER is turned on.
• Verify that your RIDER is not connected to any other app or phone.
• Ensure that Bluetooth is enabled on your phone and functioning correctly.
• Grant the app permission to access Bluetooth.

Steps to Connect​

1. Open the app and navigate to the Settings page.
2. Make sure the 'Use USB for RIDER connection' option is disabled.
3. Switch to the RIDER page.
4. Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your phone.
5. Verify that the app has Bluetooth permissions:
   • The RIDER screen should indicate whether Bluetooth access is granted.
   • Optionally, tap the refresh icon in the top-right corner to re-request permissions.
6. Tap 'Scan for nearby RIDERs' and wait for your RIDER to appear in the list.
7. Tap on your RIDER in the list and confirm the serial number if multiple devices are available.
8. Once connected, you should see:
   • The RIDER icon
   • Battery charge status
   • Signal strengths
9. If air traffic is detected in your vicinity, it will immediately appear on the Map page.

USB Connection (Android Only)​

Prerequisites​

• Ensure your Android device supports USB host connections.
• Ensure your Dronetag RIDER is turned on.
• Use a USB-C cable or an OTG cable to connect your RIDER to your phone or tablet.

Steps to Connect​

1. Open the app and navigate to the Settings page.
2. Enable the option 'Use USB for RIDER connection'.
3. Restart the app completely (ensure it is closed, not just minimized).
4. Reopen the app and connect the Dronetag RIDER via USB-C or OTG cable.
5. Navigate to the RIDER page.
6. If the RIDER does not appear in the list, tap 'Refresh connected devices'.
7. If the RIDER still does not appear:
   • Ensure your device supports USB host mode.
   • Check the connection and try again.
8. Tap on your RIDER in the list to establish a connection.
9. Once connected, you should see:
   • The RIDER icon
   • Battery charge status
   • Signal strengths
10. If air traffic is detected in your vicinity, it will immediately appear on the Map page.

Troubleshooting​

• RIDER does not appear in the list:
  • Ensure the device is powered on and in range.
  • Restart the app and retry the connection process.
  • Verify that Bluetooth is enabled (for Bluetooth connections).
  • Check if the mobile device supports USB host mode (for USB connections).
• Unable to connect over Bluetooth:
  • Ensure the RIDER is not paired with another phone or app.
  • Grant Bluetooth permissions and retry scanning.
• USB connection issues:
  • Restart the app after enabling USB mode in settings.
  • Ensure the phone supports USB host mode.
  • Try using a different USB or OTG cable.
• Untrusted drones/RID modules
  • This is usually caused by inaccurate Remote ID messages sent from the module, usually timestamp messages, while Drone Scanner can recognise these errors.
  • Contact RID module manufacturer.