AXIS VIDIUS DRONE
$75

World's smallest drone can be nonstop fun

In many people's eyes, a small remote-control toy helicopter that only flies around for its pilot's enjoyment is not a drone. But with a camera that can take photos and videos added to the remote control craft, the Axis Vidius is indeed the world's smallest drone.

The FAA requires the registration of drones that weigh more than 0.55 pounds. The Vidius does not weigh enough to need to be registered, yet the amount of technology inside the tiny Vidius is amazing.

The Vidius operates up to a range of approximately 150 feet. You can control the Vidius with an included controller or with your iOS or Android phone or tablet.

The tiny copter weighs only a few ounces, and any wind makes it hard to fly steadily. The included controller is best used when you're a beginner. If you'd like to record video, though, you'll need to download the free smartphone app. The phone controls work as advertised, but it's harder to drive using them.

Small quadcopters like the Axis Vidius are a worthy successor to the Vertibird copters of my youth, and they're a lot more fun to fly. While they might look like toys, Axis recommends the Vidius be flown by people age 14 and older. The pros? They're relatively inexpensive, small and have a quick recharge. Cons? They can be finicky to control. Plus blades are relatively easy to break. (Do yourself a favor and buy extra blades when you order it.) But there's no doubt the Axis Vidius is nonstop fun once you get the hang of it.

DALLAS MORNING NEWS

SHRYNE
FREE

App compiles digital 'scrapbooks'

Shryne lets you compile scrapbooks — well, more like comprehensive data archives — about your personal relationships. The app asks to collect data from a variety of sources, including Facebook, e-mail and text messages. If you opt in, it creates a pretty comprehensive picture. If you are not into sharing a ton of data, this app is not for you. The company makes assurances of strong security, but letting an app collect that much information is a difficult proposition for the privacy-minded. Many, though, may like the idea of compiling the digital ephemera in one place.

WASHINGTON POST