A modern analogy is remotely-piloted aircraft / drones. These come in several variants. Related to the article, they can be dangerous; ie they reach high speeds, high altitudes, contain 1 or more rotating blades, contain high-energy batteries, and sometimes don't have great failure modes in the event of lost link, out of batteries etc.

I think a fundamental difference re the article's description is modern drones are capable of being flown safely. There are ways to build, maintain, and fly them safely, and ways for them to end in tragedy. It sounds like the 70s toys are dangerous as a default.

Some sub-categories for anyone not familiar:

  - DJI quadcopters: The most popular type. Command-based controls; they're generally safe, easy to fly etc. Use electric motors and lithium batteries. Popular with photographers, as a toy etc
  - FPV quadcopters and fixed-wing aircraft: Often have a degree of DIY and custom builds. Run one of several open-source firmware. Can go really fast, are very maneuverable, and can be flown for long distances. Can have various safety issues such as reckless flying when near people or animals, flying too far from the operator or with obstacles in the way without a good lost-link response etc. User assembly can lead to problems like weak solder joints coming loose. Various degrees of automation including autonomous flight, manned-AC-style autopilot modes, and angular-rate-based manual control.
  - Model airplanes: Commonly flown by an older demographic at airfields, with direct line-of-sight between the pilot and aircraft. Control signals directly command control surfaces without a flight controller. May be ICE or battery-powered. Community-enforced safety standards. Less likely to go lost-link due to no BVLOS capability.