Tag: DJI

  • FCC Eases Drone Import Rules, DJI Drones Not Toys

    FCC Eases Drone Import Rules, DJI Drones Not Toys

    Key Takeaway

    – FCC exemptions for “toy drones” do NOT apply to DJI, as DJI remains on the federal Covered List.
    – Qualifying toy drones must lack cameras, GPS, network connectivity, and brushless motors, with strict weight, altitude, and flight time limits.
    – The new rules are so restrictive that even the lightest DJI drone (the Neo) fails to qualify due to its camera and advanced features.
    – The ban on DJI and similar drones remains effectively unchanged despite the narrow “toy” exception.


    Drones and new rules from the FCC

    Following the DJI and broader drone import ban, the Federal Communications Commission has allowed a few exceptions for small Chinese-made “toy” drones to enter the U.S. market again. While it seems like a step in the right direction for consumer drones, this should have allowed DJI drones to make a comeback in the market and thaw the strict import rules that have been keeping drones out of the U.S. since December. However, this is far from reality, as the import rules remain restrictive enough to apply to anything an average drone user would want to fly.

    Why the FCC decided this

    According to the FCC, the agency was acting on a Pentagon determination that national security risks are not posed by “unsophisticated low-risk toys” that lack the “organic capabilities and features in range, endurance, sensing payload, connectivity, and data collection and storage” found in regular consumer drones. The FCC implemented this order on June 15 as Public Notice DA-26-588, removing any qualifying toy drones and any foreign-made components they contain from the FCC’s Covered List.

    Exact rules for toy drones

    Under the FCC’s criteria, qualifying toy drones must weigh no more than 150 grams, operate within 100 meters and within direct line of sight, and carry no cameras or sensors that can gather data or information. Furthermore, these toy drones should have no network or connectivity features and should fly for 10 minutes or less on a single charge. Adding to the list of restrictions on “toy drones,” the FCC also requires no satellite or GPS navigation of any kind, no brushless motors, a maximum altitude of 300 feet, and a top speed of 22 miles per hour. In addition, these mini drones must be marketed and sold explicitly as toys. Furthermore, these toy drones cannot be manufactured or imported by any company named in Section 1709 of the 2025 Defense Authorization Act.

    What this means for DJI specifically

    So what does this mean for DJI? Currently, these stringent restrictions describe a category that hardly any DJI drones fit into. The lightest drone DJI currently sells is the DJI Neo, which weighs 135 grams, and considering it features a 12 MP camera, shoots 4K video, features a wireless link over several kilometers, GPS navigation, brushless motors, and 18 minutes of flight time, it fails to qualify for the “toy drone” category. Moreover, even if DJI creates a drone that falls under the FCC’s toy-drone requirements, the company and its products would still remain featured on the Covered List.

    Sources
    • DJI Osmo Pocket 4 Pro: 1000-Nit OLED & 3x Zoom

      DJI Osmo Pocket 4 Pro: 1000-Nit OLED & 3x Zoom

      Key Takeaway

      – 1-inch primary sensor with 20mm f/2.0 and 17-level UHD dynamic range
      – New 3x telephoto camera (60mm equivalent f/1.8, 1/1.28-inch sensor)
      – Supports D-Log 2 color and 4K slow-motion at 240 FPS
      – 20% heavier and 10% taller than Osmo Pocket 4, same 1,545 mAh battery
      – Starts at CNY 3,799 (~$562) in China; Vlog Set at CNY 4,299 (~$636)


      Finaly Here: The Osmo Pocket 4 Pro Arrives

      So the Osmo Pocket 4 Pro has finaly shown up after a real long wait. They shortened it to Osmo Pocket 4P and it was first teased back in mid-April before showing up at the Cannes Film Festival a month later. Even though we don’t know global release details yet DJI is now selling its first Pro-branded vlogging camera in China. The company has gone ahead and confirmed all the specs we were waiting for.

      Camera Sensor and Lens Upgrades

      The new camera keeps the same 1-inch style 20 mm and f/2.0 primary camera sensor from the Osmo Pocket 4 which is a improvement over the Osmo Pocket 3. This primary lens also boasts 17 levels of ultra-high dynamic range that surpasses what the Osmo Pocket 4 can do. Its pretty impressive how they managed to squeeze more performance out of the same sensor.

      Telephoto Camera and Video Features

      Arguably the biggest difference between the Osmo Pocket 4 and the Osmo Pocket 4P is the latter’s 3x telephoto camera. It packs an f/1.8 aperture with a 60 mm equivalent focal length and uses a smaller 1/1.28-inch optical format than the primary lens. The new telephoto camera delivers 100-25,600 ISO sensitivity in photography mode which increases to 100-51,200 for low-light videos. Plus it supports D-Log 2 colour and can capture slow-motion footage at 240 FPS and 4K.

      • Primary camera: 1-inch sensor, 20 mm, f/2.0, 17-level dynamic range
      • Telephoto camera: 3x zoom, 60 mm equivalent, f/1.8, 1/1.28-inch sensor
      • Video: 4K at 240 FPS slow-motion, D-Log 2 colour support
      • ISO range: 100-25,600 (photo), 100-51,200 (low-light video)

      Battery, Screen and Physical Changes

      Elsewhere the Osmo Pocket 4P keeps the same 1,545 mAh (11.95 Wh) battery as its non-Pro sibling along with a identical 2-inch and 1,000-nit touchscreen that outputs at 556 x 314 pixels. However the added telephoto camera and the three-axis gimbal make the Osmo Pocket 4P larger and heavier than the standard version. Specificly it is 20% heavier at 230 g while being 10% taller too. That might be a issue for people who loved the compact size of the previous model.

      Pricing and Availability Details

      The Osmo Pocket 4P starts at CNY 3,799 which is about $562 in China with a choice of Classic Black and Pearl White finishes. Alternatively DJI also sells a ‘Vlog Set’ with additional accessories for CNY 4,299 (around $636). For comparison the Osmo Pocket 4 starts at CNY 2,999 which is roughly $444 in the same market. So you are paying a premium for that telephoto lens and the Pro branding no doubt.


      Sources

    • Insta360 Countersues DJI Over Five Patents in Two Lawsuits

      Insta360 Countersues DJI Over Five Patents in Two Lawsuits

      Key Takeaway

      – Insta360 launched two countersuits against DJI, accusing it of infringing five utility patents covering core camera technologies.
      – DJI filed launch-day patent lawsuits targeting Insta360’s new Luna Ultra camera, seeking a permanent US market ban.
      – Insta360 categorically denies copying the Osmo Pocket series, asserting the Luna Ultra is the result of independent R&D since 2020.
      – Early consumer demand for the Luna Ultra was exceptionally high, becoming Amazon’s top-selling camcorder in North America within 24 hours.
      – DJI’s restricted US commercial presence due to government bans raises questions about the validity and motives behind its lawsuit.


      DJI and Insta360 Legal Battle Intensifies

      The legal battle between DJI and Insta360 is intensifying, with Insta360 responding just hours after DJI filed launch-day patent infringement lawsuits over the new Luna Ultra camera. Rather than playing defense, Insta360 has launched two countersuits of its own in the US, accusing DJI of violating five utility patents across several of its most popular product lines.

      Insta360’s Counterclaims and Patent Allegations

      Insta360’s legal offensive claims that DJI is infringing on its proprietary technology covering core camera functionalities. The disputed intellectual property includes patents for gimbal stabilization, directional controls, smooth camera stabilization, telemetry data overlays, and panoramic video stabilization. According to the complaints, these technologies are used across a wide swath of DJI’s catalog, including the Osmo Pocket line, the Ronin and RS professional stabilizer series, the Osmo Mobile smartphone gimbals, and the Osmo 360 camera.

      Company Stance and Founders Response

      In a public statement, Insta360 Founder JK Liu made it clear that the company would not back down, stating that while they prefer to let their products do the talking, they are fully committed to protecting their innovations and defending their intellectual property. The retaliatory filing follows a calculated strike by DJI on June 10, intentionally timed to coincide with the official launch of Insta360’s Luna Ultra. DJI’s lawsuits seek a permanent injunction to ban the Luna Ultra from the US market, a move Insta360 claims is an anti-competitive attempt to disrupt their product launch and limit consumer choice in the handheld gimbal category.

      Insta360 Rejects Copycat Claims

      Insta360 has categorically rejected DJI’s claims that the Luna Ultra copied the architecture of the Osmo Pocket series. The company maintains that the camera has a completely unique engineering footprint and is the culmination of years of independent research and development that began back in 2020. According to Liu, the design and technology behind the Luna Ultra naturally evolved from earlier in-house innovations, including the modular ONE R, the Link webcam series, and the Flow smartphone gimbals. He added that DJI’s decision to file lawsuits on launch day exposes a fear of facing a highly competitive product in the market.

      Consumer Demand and Market Impact

      Despite the immediate legal friction, Insta360 reports that early consumer demand for the Luna Ultra has been exceptionally high. Within its first 24 hours of availability, the device became the top-selling product in Amazon’s camcorder category in North America. The company has assured creators that it remains fully committed to ensuring the continued market availability of its products while the legal battle plays out in court.

      Political Irony and Corporate Catfight

      Ultimately, the whole dispute is starting to look like an intense corporate catfight and one dripping with political irony. Thanks to escalating US government restrictions and standing executive orders effectively targeting DJI over its Chinese state ties, the drone giant’s ability to freely sell new hardware in the American market has been severely choked. Because these bans heavily restrict DJI’s commercial presence in the US, it raises a glaring question about the validity of the lawsuit: if a company can barely sell its own competing products in the region, what actual “damages” can it realistically claim to have lost to a rival? For now, with a restricted DJI aggressively trying to leverage American courts to kneecap an unhindered competitor, we will just have to wait and see how all this pans out in front of a judge.

      Sources
    • DJI Sues Insta360 Over Luna Gimbals, Seeks US Sales Ban

      DJI Sues Insta360 Over Luna Gimbals, Seeks US Sales Ban

      Key Takeaway

      – DJI filed two patent infringement lawsuits against Insta360’s new Luna gimbal cameras.
      – The first lawsuit alleges Insta360 copied the physical design of DJI’s Osmo Pocket 3.
      – The second lawsuit alleges Insta360 infringed on utility patents for gimbal mechanics and tracking software.
      – DJI is seeking a permanent injunction to halt Luna sales, plus damages and penalties.
      – This is the second lawsuit DJI has filed against Insta360 this year, escalating their rivalry.


      DJI Takes Legal Action Against Insta360 Over Luna Gimbal Cameras

      DJI has recently initiated a significant legal maneuver against rival Insta360, filing two patent infringement lawsuits concerning the newly released Luna gimbal camera series in the United States. At the heart of this dispute lies the design and functionality of Insta360’s Luna Pro and Luna Ultra. The first lawsuit alleges that Insta360 shamelessly copied the physical architecture of DJI’s hugely popular Osmo Pocket 3, claiming patents on several specific design elements, such as the long, handheld body, the rotating display, the control area with a scroll wheel, and the gimbal arm connection.

      Claims of Design and Technology Infringement

      According to DJI, Insta360’s new Luna line is a direct copy of the design they invented, and is being marketed specifically to compete against the Osmo Pocket. Meanwhile, the second lawsuit targets internal technology, claiming that the Luna series infringes on four of DJI’s utility patents covering the underlying mechanics of how a handheld gimbal operates. DJI also asserts that Insta360 copied its methods for toggling between follow and locked modes using a single control, as well as its self-contained system for tracking a subject in real-time directly on the device’s screen, without requiring a separate smartphone app.

      • Patents cover physical design like body, display, and scroll wheel.
      • Utility patents involve gimbal mechanics and motor control software.
      • Infringement includes mode toggling and on-device tracking methods.

      Legal Actions and Damages Sought

      Both lawsuits were filed in the Eastern District of Texas, just after the Luna cameras officially went on sale in the US. DJI is pursuing aggressive action, seeking a permanent injunction to halt the sale of the accused cameras, along with damages, profit disgorgement, and extra penalties for what it describes as willful infringement. This latest legal battle further escalates the rivalry between the two camera makers, following a separate lawsuit DJI filed against Insta360 earlier this year over drone-based image processing technology.

      Pricing and Specification Details

      The Luna Pro gimbal camera retails for $499, featuring a 1-inch sensor, adjustable color temperature LED fill light, and 5K/30fps video recording. The Luna Ultra, priced at $699, offers a Micro Four Thirds sensor, interchangeable lens compatibility, and 6K/30fps video, both with 3-axis stabilization.

      Sources
    • DJI Osmo Pocket 4P Worldwide Launch Confirmed with 70mm Telephoto Camera

      DJI Osmo Pocket 4P Worldwide Launch Confirmed with 70mm Telephoto Camera

      Key Takeaway

      1. DJI will showcase the Osmo Pocket 4P at Cannes on May 14, but specific availability details are still unconfirmed.
      2. The Osmo Pocket 4P features a second lens with 3x optical zoom and up to 10x digital zoom capabilities.
      3. The device likely uses the same 1-inch primary lens from the Osmo Pocket 3, maintaining similar core features.

      Upcoming Launch of the Osmo Pocket 4P

      DJI has recently announced that they will be showcasing the new Osmo Pocket 4P camera soon, specifically at the Cannes event this week. The company initially teased the device in China back in April, but only confirmed its existence to the global audience by early May. The scheduled debut is set for May 14th at 15:00 UTC, but there’s still some mystery about the actual schedule of this event, leaving us unsure of when you will be able to buy the new device once it’s launched.

      About the Device & Its Features

      As per the latest claims, the Osmo Pocket 4P is said to be a ‘new masterpiece’, mainly due to its innovative second lens. Although the teaser images are limited, DJI has confirmed that this additional lens is capable of providing 3x optical zoom. Content creators from China have shared inside details, revealing that the camera can perform up to 10x digital zoom for photos and videos. Meanwhile, the main 1-inch lens, similar to what’s used in the previous Osmo Pocket 4, likely remains unchanged, which might make the 4P notably more versatile than the old Osmo Pocket 3 that costs around $499 currently.

      What to Expect from the DJI Osmo Pocket 4P

      • Second lens offering 3x optical zoom
      • Ability for up to 10x digital zoom for high-quality media
      • Potentially similar primary lens as older models
      • Debut scheduled at Cannes on May 14th, 2023
      • Exact availability details not yet announced
      Sources
    • DJI Announces Global Launch of New Premium Vlogging Camera

      DJI Announces Global Launch of New Premium Vlogging Camera

      Key Takeaway

      1. DJI is teasing the upcoming Osmo Pocket 4 Pro (Osmo Pocket 4P) with a global release planned, but not confirmed for the US.
      2. The camera features a 1-inch primary lens and a dedicated 3x telephoto camera.
      3. The device is likely to be available earlier in China than in other regions, with no official release date announced.

      Teasing New Gear

      DJI has been teasing the Osmo Pocket 4 Pro for quite a while now, almost a month, on Chinese social media sites. They keep sharing videos in Weibo, but they haven’t said exactly when its going to be out. Fans are eager, but DJI keeps tight lipped about the official release date, leaving everyone in suspense.

      Global release plans

      While DJI hints that the new Osmo Pocket will be available worldwide, unfortunately the U.S. market seems to be left out for now. Their US website doesn’t mention the Osmo Pocket 4P at all, but Canadian and Mexican sites do, so it looks like it might be rolling out in those regions first. Maybe the US will get it later, but nothing confirmed yet.

      Video previews and Features

      This short video is a repeat of what DJI shared in China back in April, which hints that the Osmo Pocket 4P might come out earlier in China than elsewhere in the world. The company is not saying for sure, but the teaser suggests a few cool features. It will have a 1-inch main lens, similar to the Osmo Pocket 4 and 3. Also, it will include a 3x telephoto lens for vlogging and capturing more distant shots. Not a lot of details are shared, but several hands-on videos have already been shared on Chinese social media as a sneak peek.

      Sources
    • DJI Romo 2 Robot Vacuum Release Teased for May 2026

      DJI Romo 2 Robot Vacuum Release Teased for May 2026

      Key Takeaway

      1. DJI has released or announced multiple new devices recently, including the Mic Mini 2 and Mic Mini 2S, with the latter expected in June.
      2. The Osmo Mobile 8P is set to launch globally, but will remain exclusive to China until May 7.
      3. DJI is teasing a second-generation robot vacuum (Romo 2) with a planned release in May 2026, likely with a global debut similar to previous models.

      Recent Launches by DJI in a Short Time

      DJI’s been really busy lately, launching a bunch of new gadgets in just a few weeks. Just recently, on April 28, they came out with the Mic Mini 2, a device they had already introduced earlier this month in China. At the same time, they announced a second version called the Mic Mini 2S, but this one won’t be out until at least June. It’s kinda exciting to see so many new products come out so quickly, shows how much they’re pushing the boundaries and trying to stay ahead in the market.

      Upcoming Devices and International Launches

      The company also dropped a teaser about the Osmo Mobile 8P, suggesting a worldwide release is on the horizon. It’s worth noting, the Osmo Mobile 8 has been available globally and costs around $149 (though current prices might differ), but the 8P will stay a China-exclusive until May 7. This means international fans will have to wait a little longer to get their hands on it, but DJI’s hinting at a broader release soon after that.

      Robot Vacuums and Future Plans

      On social media, DJI has been teasing their next robot vacuum, though specifics are still pretty vague. The company hasn’t announced exact release dates for the Romo 2 and Romo 2nd Generation, but they’ve hinted that the new model will be out around May 2026. It seems like they’re planning to keep the international market in mind as well, since the original Romo series launched worldwide just two months after its initial debut in China. So, it’s reasonable to guess that the Romo 2 might follow a similar timeline, maybe arriving globally soon after its release in China.

      Sources
    • DJI Announces Global Launch Event in May 2024 for New Wonders

      DJI Announces Global Launch Event in May 2024 for New Wonders

      Key Takeaway

      1. DJI has released the Mic Mini 2 in more markets outside China but not in the US, with the Mic Mini 2S expected later this year.
      2. The company has scheduled a global launch event for May 7, 2026, under the teaser “Wonders in Your Palm.”
      3. A new remote control, likely for the Osmo Mobile line, is expected to replace the Osmo Mobile 8 as part of DJI’s upcoming product lineup.

      DJI Launches Mic Mini 2 in Multiple Markets

      DJI has just unveilled the Mic Mini 2 in several parts of the world after teasing it earlier this month. While the wireless microphone is now out in many regions outside of China, it seems like DJI is not releasing it in the U.S.A. yet. They have also said that a newer model, the Mic Mini 2S, will be coming later on this year, adding to their lineup of audio equipment.

      Exciting Plans for May 2026

      With many announcements today, DJI already looking ahead, planning a big event in May 2026. As shown in a tweet, this global launch is scheduled for May 7 at noon UTC. So far, they’ve just shared a brief teaser video and the phrase ‘Wonders in Your Palm.’ Not much else is known about what exactly they will unveil during this event.

      Teaser and Future Products

      Interestingly, DJI reused a teaser posted two weeks back on social media in China. We believe that the small device shown in the images might be the remote control that comes with the Osmo Mobile 8P. This suggests that a new model will probably replace the Osmo Mobile 8, which you can find for about $149 elsewhere, in the company’s lineup. For further details about the upcoming Osmo Mobile 8P, check other articles and updates from DJI.

      Sources
    • DJI Mic Mini 2 Wireless Microphone Not Available in the US

      DJI Mic Mini 2 Wireless Microphone Not Available in the US

      Key Takeaway

      1. DJI’s Mic Mini 2 introduces colorful, magnetically attachable front panels and offers faster recharging compared to the previous model.
      2. The device now includes new voice presets—bright, normal, and rich tone—previously exclusive to the Mic 3.
      3. Pricing varies based on package, with options for individual transmitters or bundles, but currently unavailable in the US.

      Latest Launchings from DJI

      DJI’s been quite busy in April 2026, unveiling a spate of new gadgets that have captured quite some attention. To make a list, they’ve rolled out the Lito 1, Lito X1, and the Osmo Pocket 4, each bringing new features to the table. Besides, they’ve also introduced the Osmo Mobile 8P and Mic Mini 2 exclusively in China, which marks their focus on expanding diverse offerings.

      Global Release of Mic Mini 2 and Future Plans

      Now, the company has started distributing the Mic Mini 2 on a worldwide basis. Interestingly, DJI hinted that a second version of the Mic Mini will be released later in the year too. For now, the Mic Mini 2 is an upgrade over the previous Mic Mini (which stood at around $79). It boasts new improvements and added functionalities that aim to enhance user experience considerably.

      Features and Pricing Strategy

      DJI has made the device more customizable and user-friendly by adding colorful front panels that magnetically attach to the Mic Mini 2, making it 10% heavier but more attractive. The transmitter now charges in about 20% less time compared to the older model. Moreover, DJI offers a handy mobile charging case capable of holding one transmitter and one receiver, making it easier for users to keep their devices powered up on the go.

      Enhanced Voice Presets and Cost Options

      One of the notable new features includes the addition of bright, normal, and rich tone voice presets, previously exclusive to the Mic 3. Pricing starts at £29, €33, and $36 for the single transmitter. If you want to buy a combined transmitter and receiver kit, it costs £49, €59, and $65. Interestingly, the charging case, which is available separately, doesn’t increase the cost.

      Complete Package and Availability

      The full bundle, which includes two transmitters, a larger charging case, and a mobile receiver, is priced at £69, €79, and $87. The premium package, including ten multi-color front covers along with intensive accessories, is sold at £103, €114, and $114. However, for now, DJI states that the Mic Mini 2 isn’t available in the U.S. market, but more details can be found on DJI’s website.

      Sources
    • Just Fly: New DJI Drones Launch Worldwide in April 2023

      Just Fly: New DJI Drones Launch Worldwide in April 2023

      Key Takeaway

      1. DJI is launching a new drone series on April 23, with the Lito 1 and Lito X1 expected to be part of it.
      2. The upcoming drone series will be a new line, rather than a refresh of existing models like Air, Mini, Neo, or Mavic.
      3. The new drones are likely positioned as more affordable options, potentially replacing older models such as the Mini 3 and Mini 4K.

      Exciting New Drones from DJI Are Coming Soon

      Things are finally heating up in the drone world as DJI gets ready to launch a whole bunch of new stuff this month. First, they’re dropping the Osmo Pocket 4, with an announcement set for April 16 which is just around the corner. After that, they’ll introduce a Portable Power Station on April 20 for those who need extra juice on the go. But wait, there’s more! The company has also spilled that they are gearing up for a fresh series of drones, which definitely got enthusiasts buzzing.

      The New Drone Series Revealed

      Instead of just upgrading current models, DJI plans to surprise us with a brand new lineup. They announced an unveiling scheduled for April 23 at noon GMT, marking a significant change from their usual refreshes. And this time, these new drones will be released across the globe, not just targeted towards specific markets like China. Really, this means we should all be waiting eagerly for the reveal, which might shake things up in the drone industry.

      Hints and Potential Models

      While DJI hasn’t fully unveiled what these drones will feature, they’ve dropped hints on social media pointing towards the Lito 1 and Lito X1 models. These names appeared in hashtags and posts, but no detailed specs or prices for them have been shared yet. Still, industry watchers speculate that these new models will be positioned as more affordable options, potentially replacing the Mini 3 and Mini 4K models currently available at around $209. They’re probably meant for those who want good quality without breaking the bank.

      Sources