Drones, also referred to as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), are quickly emerging as an important computing platform of the future. With practical applications ranging from disaster response, to infrastructure inspection, to delivery of goods, UAVs offer an incredible opportunity for innovation across a multitude of industries. As a result, Intel is positioning itself at the forefront of this opportunity to increasingly integrate the computing, communications, sensor and cloud technology required to make drones smarter and more connected.

To further our efforts, Intel has signed a definitive agreement, subject to customary closing conditions, to acquire Ascending Technologies, a drone company located in Krailing, Germany, with best-in-class drone auto-pilot software and algorithms. We’ve already partnered to combine Ascending Technologies’ sense-and-avoid algorithms with Intel™ RealSense® technology’s real-time depth-sensing capability. Together, these technologies can, among other things, improve drone safety – helping them avoid obstacles and collisions.

With Ascending Technologies, Intel gains expertise and technology to accelerate the deployment of Intel RealSense technology into the fast growing drone market segment. We plan for the Ascending Technologies team to continue supporting their current customers while also collaborating with Intel’s Perceptual Computing team to develop UAV technology that can help drones fly with more awareness of their environments.

We’ll keep this conversation going at CES 2016 where our CEO, Brian Krzanich will deliver the pre-show keynote address Tuesday, Jan. 5th, on how Intel technology is changing how people experience daily life. If you can, stop by and see our latest innovations in the Las Vegas Convention Center, North Hall, N253. I hope to see you there!

Josh Walden is Senior Vice President and General Manager of Intel’s New Technology Group