The Vivo Flying Drone Camera Phone has captured massive attention since its global debut — a smartphone that literally lets its camera take flight. But as Indian buyers eagerly await its arrival, one question dominates online discussions: is it even legal to fly such a camera in India?
In this detailed guide, we’ll break down India’s drone laws, privacy regulations, and safety rules, explaining what you can and cannot do with a drone camera phone in November 2025.
Why This Question Matters
India has some of the world’s most structured drone regulations under the DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation). Even small consumer drones are subject to rules about where they can fly, how high they can go, and who can operate them.
The Vivo Flying Drone Camera Phone, which features a miniature pop-out drone, challenges the definition of a “drone” altogether. It’s smaller than a palm, weighs under 150 grams, and has limited range — but it still flies and records video.
Verdict: The phone sits in a legal grey zone — technically a drone, but practically too small to regulate like commercial ones.
How India Classifies Drones
The DGCA divides drones into several categories based on weight and use:
| Category | Weight | Regulation |
|---|---|---|
| Nano | Up to 250 g | Exempt from registration (non-commercial) |
| Micro | 250 g to 2 kg | Requires UIN and permission |
| Small | 2 kg to 25 kg | Strict rules, pilot certification needed |
The Vivo drone module weighs around 120 grams, firmly within the Nano category, meaning it doesn’t need registration if used privately.
Verdict: As long as users keep it within private or indoor spaces, it’s legally compliant in India.
What You Can Legally Do
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Use Indoors or Private Property:
Flying the drone module in your home, terrace, garden, or private property is fully allowed. -
Capture Personal Content:
Shooting videos for personal use — like family gatherings or travel clips — is legal. -
Short-Range Use:
The camera’s 8-metre limit keeps it well below restricted airspace levels. -
Use in Non-Crowded Areas:
Open spaces like private farms, resorts, or parks (with permission) are acceptable.
Verdict: Everyday Indian users can safely enjoy the flying camera for selfies, vlogs, and creative footage — just not in public airspace.
What Is Restricted or Illegal
While the Vivo drone camera sounds harmless, using it carelessly could invite penalties under India’s Aviation and Privacy Acts. Here’s what users must avoid:
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Flying Near Airports, Police Stations, or Government Buildings
All such zones are restricted for aerial devices. Even a tiny drone phone camera cannot fly there. -
Recording Public Crowds Without Consent
Capturing videos of strangers without permission violates India’s Right to Privacy as per Article 21 of the Constitution. -
Crossing 15 Metres Height
Although the phone’s camera only hovers around 8 metres, modifying or misusing it to exceed this range could breach DGCA norms. -
Night Flights in Public Areas
Drone operations after sunset are restricted except for professional use with DGCA approval.
Verdict: Respecting airspace, privacy, and local security zones is critical — even for small flying modules.
DGCA’s Stand on Nano Drones
The DGCA has clarified that nano drones for personal use don’t require any license or prior permission if operated below 15 metres (50 feet) and within visual line of sight.
That means you can legally fly the Vivo drone camera for personal content as long as:
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You stay within your own property, and
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You do not endanger anyone’s safety or privacy.
Verdict: The Vivo drone phone fully fits within DGCA’s “safe personal device” definition when used responsibly.
Safety & Privacy Considerations
1. Avoid Flying in Public Events
Public gatherings like concerts, weddings, or protests are sensitive zones for aerial devices.
2. Respect Personal Space
Filming individuals without permission could be treated as a privacy breach under IT Act Section 66E, which penalises capturing or transmitting private images without consent.
3. Be Mindful of Noise and Interference
The small propellers make minimal noise, but users should still ensure they aren’t disturbing others.
4. Avoid Recording Minors Without Parental Approval
India’s Juvenile Data Protection guidelines apply even to mobile-based video tools.
Verdict: Always treat the flying camera like a responsible gadget — not a toy.
Battery and Flight Safety
The detachable drone draws charge directly from the phone dock. Each flight of around 25–30 seconds consumes 5–8% of the phone’s total battery. Vivo includes software safeguards that prevent launch if battery levels drop below 20%.
Safety sensors automatically land the module when the signal weakens or battery dips. The propellers also have auto-stop protection if they encounter physical obstruction.
Verdict: Vivo’s built-in safety features meet global consumer drone safety benchmarks.
Will You Need Registration in the Future?
As of November 2025, there’s no registration requirement for nano drones under DGCA rules. However, if such devices become mainstream, India’s Ministry of Civil Aviation may issue new amendments covering mobile-embedded drones.
Experts predict that manufacturers like Vivo may need to include “drone compliance certifications” in packaging for transparency.
Verdict: Buyers can use the phone freely today, but should stay updated on any 2026 DGCA policy updates.
Comparing Vivo’s Drone Module with Regular Drones
| Feature | Vivo Drone Camera | Consumer Drone (e.g., DJI Mini SE) |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 120 g | 249 g |
| Flight Time | 25–30 sec | 30 min |
| Control Range | 8 m | 2 km |
| Camera Resolution | 200 MP | 12 MP |
| License Needed | No | Yes (for outdoor use) |
Verdict: Vivo’s module is more of a creative camera accessory than a full-fledged drone.
Public Opinion in India
The idea of a flying smartphone camera has divided opinions. Many creators in Mumbai and Delhi find it a game-changer for vlog content, while privacy advocates warn about misuse in public areas.
Consumers, however, appreciate that the drone module’s limited range and automatic flight control make it far less intrusive than traditional drones.
Verdict: Public perception remains positive as long as users operate responsibly.
Final Verdict
The Vivo Flying Drone Camera Phone is completely legal for personal use in India under current DGCA guidelines. Its mini drone module fits safely within the nano-drone category, requiring no license or registration when used on private property.
However, flying it irresponsibly — especially near restricted zones or public spaces — can attract legal consequences under aviation and privacy laws.
Overall Verdict: The Vivo drone phone is legal, innovative, and exciting — but it demands smart, responsible use to stay within India’s safety and privacy boundaries.
FAQs
Is the Vivo drone camera phone legal in India?
Yes, it’s legal for personal use under the DGCA’s nano-drone category, provided it’s used responsibly.
Can I use it outdoors?
Yes, within private spaces or open areas where drone flying is permitted — not near airports or government buildings.
Do I need a license or registration?
No, as of November 2025, nano drones (under 250 g) don’t require any registration for personal use.
What are the penalties for misuse?
Illegal flying in restricted areas may result in fines or confiscation under DGCA and IT Act provisions.
Can the drone camera be used for professional shoots?
Only with explicit DGCA approval. For personal vlogging, it’s perfectly fine.
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