TIME names HOVERAir AQUA one of the best inventions of 2026
A camera that flies, floats, and follows the action on and around water. HOVERAir earns a spot on TIME’s list for the second year in a row.
HOVERAir AQUA has officially been named one of TIME's Best Inventions of 2026. The annual list celebrates innovations that make a difference, evaluated on criteria including originality, impact, and effectiveness. It’s the second consecutive year HOVERAir has made the list: in 2025, TIME selected the X1 PROMAX.
"We're thrilled to see AQUA on TIME's list. We believe the best technology doesn't get in the way of the experience, it makes it even better. With AQUA, you can focus on the ride, the adventure and the people you share it with, while the camera takes care of capturing the moment." says MQ Wang, CEO of HOVERAir.
If you've ever tried to film yourself on a paddleboard, you know the challenge. Someone has to stay on shore, or you strap on a camera and hope for the best. Either way, capturing the moment can take you out of it.
That's why HOVERAir built AQUA: the world's first fully waterproof self-flying camera designed for life on and around the water. It takes off and lands directly on the water, floats on the surface and follows you automatically. Whether you're wakeboarding, kayaking, paddleboarding, or enjoying a day on a boat, AQUA keeps you in frame while you stay in the moment.
Browse all 300 TIME inventions: ti.me/best-inventions
HOVERAir AQUA
- Built for water from the ground up. IP67 rating, 15+ waterproof and anti-corrosion details, and a millimeter-wave radar that reads the water surface for safer takeoff and landing, a first in consumer drones.
- Follows you without a remote. The wearable Lighthouse keeps AQUA close and tracks you hands-free.
- Footage that holds up. 4K at up to 100 fps, a 1/1.28-inch sensor and a hydrophobic, self-heating lens against droplets and fog.
- Easy to take along. Under 250 g, C0-certified in the EU, with 128 GB of built-in storage and up to 23 minutes of flight time.
- Availability and price. AQUA is available worldwide, online at hoverair.com, at Amazon and at selected retailers.
