Problem Solved !!!
The EXO Ranger 7 Plus drone must be registered with the FAA FIRST, and the registration # must be entered into the EXO Ranger app and bound to the Ranger!!! Customer service failed to mention this to me after 3 drones returned and countless emails back and forth. On the LAST page of the manual, it says 'Drone must be registered with the FAA on their website. If you fail to do so, it will restrict your drone from flying.'
Why couldn't they put this on the first page and as the first step?
Anyway, here is the website FAA. You can find your serial number in the app. You need to connect to the drone's wifi and open the app, tap 'FAA Registration' at the bottom of the home screen. There on the top line is your SN. Once you've created your account on the FAA website, 'Add Service' > Choose which pilot you are > Add Device/Inventory > Select 'Yes' to "Does your drone broadcast FAA info' > Add make, model & nickname > click submit > Pay the $5. You will receive your registration #. This # needs to be entered on the second line in the app under "FAA Registration', right under your SN. You need to be connected to the drone's wifi and the drone on before tapping 'Bind Drone'.
I hope this helps everyone who is having issues with this specific drone not wanting to take off. It has nothing to do with the batteries or app type or even phone make or model. Just need to register it and bind the drone.
