Bebop 1 and skycontroller ... Drone flies... but app and firmware update issues

[Caddyb0y]

Hi, i had a bebop 1 with SC years ago and it worked fine.

I bought a second hand one recently because it was a great price. However having issues.

I can connect the drone to the SC and fly it that way. However i really want to use the app for obvious reasons.

The freeflight 6 app has no joy (since found out that doesnt support the bebop )

Downloaded the freeflight pro apk. Version 3 and 5. But app saying 'synchronisation failed' check internet connection (even though the internet is fine). Cant connect direct to drone or usb connected to the skycontroller...

Have tried to update firmware on both. Small usb stick fat32 formated, file in the root directory, but nothing happens. The drone just sits there humming. And no prompt comes up on the SC interface screen either when usb is inserted. Any ideas? Is there another app i can use? Am i making a rookie error withnthe firmware update? Shall i just bin it and buy a newer drone?

 

[flyingblind]

You need to install FreeFlight Pro with the obb directory or you will continue to get the "synchronization failed error". There's a guide here:

How to install FreeFlight Pro 5.2.7 on newer Android phones or tablets (tested on Android 10, 11, 12, 13, 14)

You will be installing an .apk file and copying a folder named com.parrot.freeflight3 to the /Android/obb folder on your phone. There are two ways to accomplish this. Option #1 (easiest) is to copy the files from a Windows PC to your phone. Option #2 is to use a 3rd party app to copy/move the...

parrotpilots.com

 

[leprechaun0226]

You need to install FreeFlight Pro with the obb directory or you will continue to get the "synchronization failed error". There's a guide here:

How to install FreeFlight Pro 5.2.7 on newer Android phones or tablets (tested on Android 10, 11, 12, 13, 14)

You will be installing an .apk file and copying a folder named com.parrot.freeflight3 to the /Android/obb folder on your phone. There are two ways to accomplish this. Option #1 (easiest) is to copy the files from a Windows PC to your phone. Option #2 is to use a 3rd party app to copy/move the...

parrotpilots.com

I have a parrot bebop 1 With the sky controller. The drone will sink to the controller. But it will not sink to any version Of the free flight app. It has synchronization issues and will not connect to the app itself. So I cannot calibrate the drone or view any video. I have tried all of these methods with no success ... I'm either doing it wrong, or there is something else messed up. Can someone please give me advice?.. I have just invested about three hundred dollars into this drone, If not more with The purchase of spare batteries and charge.

 

[Sgee]

Ah, the joys of dealing with older drones! Don’t bin it just yet, let’s troubleshoot this step by step:

Firmware Update Issues​

• USB Stick Format: Make sure the USB stick is formatted as FAT32 and the firmware file is in the root directory (not inside any folders).
• Correct Firmware File: Double-check that you’re using the correct firmware file for your Bebop 1. You can download it from the official Parrot website or trusted forums.
• Power Cycle: Turn off the drone and SC, insert the USB stick, then power them back on. The update should start automatically if the USB is recognized.
• Alternative Method: If the USB method isn’t working, try updating via the FreeFlight Pro app once you get it connected (more on that below).

FreeFlight Pro App Issues​

• Synchronization Error: This usually happens because the app can’t connect to Parrot’s servers (which are sometimes flaky for older devices). Here’s how to fix it:
  
  1. Clear Cache/Data: Go to your phone’s settings, find the FreeFlight Pro app, and clear its cache and data. Then reopen the app.
  2. Reinstall the App: Uninstall FreeFlight Pro, then reinstall it. Make sure you’re using the latest compatible version (v5.0.5 is usually stable for Bebop 1).
  3. Offline Mode: Some users have reported success by disabling Wi-Fi and mobile data before opening the app. Once the app loads, re-enable Wi-Fi and connect to the drone.
• Direct Connection: If the app still won’t connect, try connecting your phone directly to the drone’s Wi-Fi (bypassing the Skycontroller). This can help isolate whether the issue is with the SC or the app.

Alternative Apps​

• FPV Camera: This app is a popular alternative for Parrot drones. It supports Bebop 1 and might work better than FreeFlight Pro. You can find it on the Google Play Store.
• Third-Party Apps: Apps like Quadcopter FX or UgCS might also work, but they often require additional setup and may not offer full functionality.

Skycontroller Connection​

• USB Connection: If you’re connecting your phone to the Skycontroller via USB, make sure you’re using a high-quality cable. Some cables only charge and don’t transfer data.
• Wi-Fi Connection: Ensure the Skycontroller and drone are properly paired. Sometimes resetting the SC (by holding the power button for 10+ seconds) can fix connection issues.

Last Resort​

• Factory Reset: If nothing works, try performing a factory reset on both the drone and the Skycontroller. This will wipe all settings and might resolve any hidden issues.
• Sell or Upgrade: If you’re still stuck, you could sell the Bebop 1 (someone might want it for parts or as a project) and upgrade to a newer drone like the Mavic Mini or DJI Air 2S. These are more reliable and have better app support.

Pro Tip​

If you’re using an Android device, make sure your phone’s OS isn’t too new. Older drones like the Bebop 1 often struggle with newer Android versions. If possible, use an older phone or tablet with Android 7 or 8.

Good luck, and let us know how it goes!