Xtend Raises $40M for Controversial Drone Technology

Meet Xtend: The Company Behind the Controversial Drone Technology

Xtend, a cutting-edge drone company, has recently made headlines for its new $40 million funding round. However, this isn't the first time the company has caught the attention of the media. With ties to the military and law enforcement, Xtend's technology has sparked controversy and raised questions about its potential implications. But what exactly is Xtend, and what does its latest funding round mean for the future of drone technology?

From Replay to Xtend: The Brothers Behind the Company

Xtend was co-founded by brothers Aviv and Matteo Shapira, who previously founded Replay, a company that created a popular video format for 360-degree replays in sports broadcasts. After being acquired by Intel in 2016, the brothers were introduced to Rubi Liani, the founder of Israel's official drone racing league. Liani's passion for drone racing inspired the brothers to start Xtend, with the goal of making drone technology more accessible and intuitive for users.

What is Xtend's Technology?

Xtend's platform allows operators to manage both in-house developed drones and robots, as well as those from third-party vendors. This platform also enables operators to control drones and robots directly or train AI models to assist with tasks such as indoor/outdoor navigation and object identification. With a focus on human-machine teaming, Xtend's technology aims to empower operators rather than replace them.

Controversy and Concerns Surrounding Xtend's Technology

While Xtend's technology has impressive capabilities, it has also raised concerns about its potential uses. The company heavily markets its technology to military, defense, and law enforcement agencies, with contracts with the Israel Defense Forces and the U.S. Department of Defense. This has sparked worries about the use of drones for surveillance and potential human rights violations.

Xtend's Plans for the Future

Despite the controversy surrounding its technology, Xtend's business seems to be thriving. The company has won $50 million in contracts and has over 50 customers, including government defense agencies. With its latest funding round, Xtend plans to expand its workforce and shift to a platform-as-a-service and software-as-a-service sales model. This will allow the company to continue developing its technology and expand its international presence, with a focus on Japan.

The Future of Drone Technology

Xtend's technology raises questions about the future of drone technology and its potential implications. While it has sparked controversy, it also has the potential to revolutionize industries such as public safety, logistics, and more. As the company continues to grow and expand, it will be important to closely monitor its use and ensure that ethical considerations are taken into account.

Conclusion

Xtend's latest funding round has put the company in the spotlight, shining a light on its controversial technology and its potential for the future. With its focus on human-machine teaming and expanding capabilities, Xtend has the potential to change the way we think about drones. However, it also raises important questions about the ethical use of technology and the responsibility of companies to consider its potential implications. As Xtend continues to grow and make its mark on the drone industry, it will be essential to closely monitor its progress and ensure that it is used for the greater good.