Yesterday we heard that the Pirate Bay intends to develop low orbit drones to host parts of their website. Well, it turns out that someone has already developed some file-sharing drones.
Liam Young, who is the co-founder of Tomorrow’s Thoughts Today, was amazed at the Pirate Bay’s announcement because he has been working on building the technology.
“Part nomadic infrastructure and part robotic swarm, we have rebuilt and programmed the drones to broadcast their own local Wi-Fi network as a form of aerial Napster. They swarm into formation, broadcasting their pirate network, and then disperse, escaping detection, only to reform elsewhere,” says the group describing their creation.
How File Sharing Drones Work
The system works by allowing people to share data with the help of flying drones. Each one of these drones costs around $1500 to build. The drones are equipped with Wi-Fi broadcasting capabilities, enabling them to create a local network that users can connect to for sharing files. This innovative approach allows for a decentralized and mobile file-sharing system that can evade traditional detection methods.
The drones operate by forming a swarm, creating a robust and resilient network. Once they have completed their task, they disperse to avoid detection and can later regroup in a different location to continue their operations. This method of dispersal and reformation makes it difficult for authorities to track and shut down the network.
Potential Implications and Future Developments
The concept of using drones for file sharing opens up a myriad of possibilities and raises several questions. For instance, how will authorities respond to this new method of data distribution? Traditional methods of monitoring and controlling file sharing may become obsolete, necessitating new strategies and technologies to address the challenges posed by these mobile networks.
Moreover, the use of drones for file sharing could have broader applications beyond piracy. For example, in disaster-stricken areas where traditional communication infrastructure is damaged, drones could provide a temporary network for emergency communications and data sharing. Similarly, in remote regions with limited internet access, drones could offer a means of connectivity.
It certainly sounds very interesting, and we wonder if the Pirate Bay will end up using the technology that already exists instead of developing their own. Given the rapid advancements in drone technology and the increasing affordability of these devices, it is plausible that we will see more widespread adoption of drone-based networks in the near future.
Additionally, the ethical and legal implications of using drones for file sharing cannot be ignored. While the technology offers innovative solutions, it also poses significant risks, including potential misuse for illegal activities. Policymakers and technologists will need to collaborate to ensure that the benefits of this technology are maximized while mitigating its risks.
Source Torrent Freak, Slashgear
Image Credit Claus Langer
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
