– What strategic considerations led to the development of ABZ Control 2.0, and what were the primary objectives during this significant software update?

Zsombor Vejtey: The fundamental motivation behind the ABZ Control 2.0 development was the optimization of user interaction and a significant expansion of system functionality. Our main goals were a radical improvement in user experience, more intuitive operation, and satisfying the complex needs of professional users alike.

– What was the timeframe for this development cycle, and how does your professional background integrate with leading this project?

Zs.: The development period between ABZ Control 1.0 and 2.0 spanned approximately five months, representing an intensive and comprehensive update process. As the head of both the software development and test pilot teams, I am directly involved in both planning and validation. This dual perspective – combining coding logic with practical flight experience – is essential for creating robust and functional systems.

– User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX) are critical elements. What specific changes have been implemented in version 2.0 that are most noticeable to the user?

Zs.: One of the most apparent changes for the user is the complete redesign of the flight screen, known as “Flytune”. The interface has been aesthetically modernized and functionally divided into three sections, significantly enhancing clarity. The iconography has been updated, and numerous features have been expanded. I would highlight the dynamically appearing “operation” section, which activates exclusively during mission execution, thereby minimizing the display of unnecessary information during manual flight. The darker-themed default design, as well as the intuitive icon arrangement – for example, icons instantly indicating the drone’s flight status – also aim to improve the user experience.

– You mentioned dynamic information display. What other telemetry or status information displays have been further developed?

Zs.: We have also optimized the battery status visualization, assigning three colors (green, orange, red) to charge levels, while simultaneously displaying both percentage and voltage readings. The RTK (Real-Time Kinematic) positioning status is now directly visible, including the number of satellites in view and the active status of RTK correction, without needing to navigate to a separate menu. Furthermore, the operational status of the payload (e.g., spraying system) is clearly indicated with an icon, providing unambiguous feedback on the activation of dispensing.

– Regarding configuration options and system management, what important developments have you implemented?

Zs.: The settings menu has also been completely restructured, aligning with ABZ Innovation’s visual identity. A significant innovation is the unit selection function, which allows for immediate switching between metric and imperial units without requiring an application restart. We also introduced the “ABZ Flight” menu, which centralizes the specific functions of our drones, such as selecting the source for altitude hold (satellite or barometer) during manual flight. In the ABZ Sense menu, the Obstacle Avoidance system configuration has become more detailed, allowing for the setting of stopping distances in both manual and automatic modes.

– Update mechanisms and compatibility with older drone models are crucial for fleet management. How did you address this challenge in version 2.0?

Zs.: One of our core principles is to support our older drone models with this software update, extending back to our very first generation. The update method is model-dependent: for older drones, manual file upload is required, while newer generation (V2 and C10) drones are capable of over-the-air (OTA) updates via the remote controller. This is managed by a dedicated “Versions” menu, which transparently displays current software versions and allows the update process for all components to be initiated with a single tap.

– Considering the continuous technological advancements, what future developments can we anticipate for the ABZ Control software?

Zs.: Several developments have already taken place since the release of version 2.0. A complete overhaul of our planning interface is anticipated, further simplifying mission planning. A significant upgrade is the integration of an internal file manager, specifically a “shapefile manager,” which will drastically simplify the import and management of shapefiles directly within the application from an SD card. Furthermore, we will introduce Network RTK connectivity, enabling correction data reception via the internet, thereby opening up new market segments. Broader integration of the drones’ sensors is also on the agenda, such as detecting arm positions or developing load cells for automatic tank level detection, which will further enhance convenience features.

ABZ Control 2.0 represents not merely a software update, but a thoughtfully designed architectural development that optimizes the practical management of precision agricultural drones. Future plans anticipate further automation and more advanced sensor integration, which will serve to strengthen ABZ Innovation’s leading position in agricultural drone technology. The development philosophy, which integrates pilot feedback and developer expertise, ensures that future solutions will continue to reflect real-world needs.