Control Your Tello Drone from iOS
A complete SwiftUI app for programming and flying the Ryze Tello drone.
The Problem
The Ryze Tello is the perfect beginner drone for learning to fly and program, but the SDK documentation only covers raw commands. Building an iOS app that reliably connects via WiFi, sends UDP commands, and handles responses requires understanding Apple’s Network Framework and the Tello communication protocol.
The Solution
This complete iOS application provides a fully functional drone controller:
- WiFi Connection Management - Connect your iPhone to the Tello network
- UDP Command Sender - Proper NWConnection setup for reliable communication
- Command Mode Activation - Enable the drone to receive commands
- Flight Controls - Takeoff, land, and rotation commands implemented
- Response Handling - Process “ok” confirmations from the drone
The Benefits
- Save 10-15 hours of SDK research and network implementation
- Fly in minutes - Build, connect, and take off immediately
- Safe testing - Designed for indoor operation
- Extensible - Add any command from the Tello SDK
- SwiftUI interface - Modern, clean button controls
Implemented Commands
- Connect to drone
- Enable command mode
- Takeoff
- Land
- Rotate 360 degrees clockwise
- Rotate 360 degrees counter-clockwise
All other Tello SDK commands can be easily added using the same pattern.
What You Get
Complete Xcode workspace with a working iOS app. Just build, connect to your Tello’s WiFi, and start flying.
Ready to take flight? Get started now.