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Arduino Air Force: DIY Robotic Cardboard Quadcopters

You're hellbent on taking over the world, but one race of robotic minions isn't enough for you. With your hexapod robots acting as your ground forces, it's only natural to take to the skies. These cardboard quadcopters are the perfect air force for you. Combined, you are mere steps away from starting your evil takeover. Now you just need some water bots.

Mini quadcopter drone with remote control on a surface.

The cardboard flying quadcopters are built around the MultiWii platform with the twin power of Processing and Arduino, so they are actually a bit more advanced than your six-legged Arduino arthropod robots, but don't let that deter you from trying them. Mike Estee has the extensive parts list all laid out and the design pattern with plenty of side notes to make things easy. Hit up his how-to article for the complete instructions.

Drone prototype with electronic components and wiring on a workbench.
Model drones displayed on a table.
Prototype of a drone frame made from cardboard and wood, displayed on a green cutting mat.
Aerial drone assembly with electronic components and wiring.
Close-up of a purple electric motor connected to a drone frame.
Various colored motor spacers and a motor component.
Drone prototype with electronic components and wiring on a workbench.
Model drones displayed on a table.
Prototype of a drone frame made from cardboard and wood, displayed on a green cutting mat.
Aerial drone assembly with electronic components and wiring.
Close-up of a purple electric motor connected to a drone frame.
Various colored motor spacers and a motor component.

Now... build them and show us your video of them in action! Here's a few videos of Mike's previous quadcopter attempts. We're still eagerly anticipating the final build's flight video.

Apple's iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 updates are packed with new features, and you can try them before almost everyone else. First, check Gadget Hacks' list of supported iPhone and iPad models, then follow the step-by-step guide to install the iOS/iPadOS 26 beta — no paid developer account required.

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