It’s been a hot minute since DJI’s dropped a new drone. Sure, there’s rumblings of the US Govt. cracking down on the China-based drone company for allegedly being a puppet of the CCP, but that hasn’t stopped DJI from absolutely dominating the drone market with its crowd-favorite flying machines (I literally can’t think of any other drone company that’s even a close second). After entering the FPV space just two years ago with the Avata, DJI’s rumored to be dropping a smaller version of the drone, designed for novice indoor use. Slated for release on August 20th, 2024, the DJI Neo is designed with a focus on combining ease of use with advanced safety and performance features, making it an attractive option for both novice pilots and seasoned enthusiasts. Along with being a smaller, pocket-sized device, the Neo is also rumored to debut a new feature in DJI’s entire drone lineup – voice control.
Designer: DJI
With its pocket-sized design, the Neo’s probably going to be pitched as an indoor-capable drone. It comes with precision-crafted cinewhoop-style propeller guards, utilizing a lattice structure that balances weight and durability. Such a design is particularly beneficial for indoor flights, where the chances of accidental collisions are higher given just how many obstacles can be found in an indoor setting. The propeller guards encase each propeller within a sturdy yet lightweight barrier, minimizing the risk of damage during flight. For beginners, this feature offers peace of mind, allowing them to hone their piloting skills without the constant worry of damaging their drone or surroundings.
Even for its tiny size, the drone is equipped with a camera mounted on a gimbal, ensuring stable and high-quality video capture. Although specifics about the camera’s resolution remain under wraps, industry expectations point towards 4K video capabilities, aligning with DJI’s reputation for delivering top-notch imaging technology. This makes the Neo not just a learning tool for beginners but also a practical choice for content creators who require reliable, high-resolution footage, even in constrained indoor environments.
A glance at the DJI Neo reveals a design that’s pretty reminiscent of the Avata 2 FPV drone. The drone’s shell, likely made from high-quality plastic or composite materials, comes in a clean, light-colored finish, reinforcing its modern aesthetic. This minimalist approach balances a sleek overall aesthetic along with aerodynamic efficiency, contributing to a smoother flight experience.
Reports indicate that it will feature a flight time of 16 minutes, which is impressive given its compact size. For those looking to extend their flight sessions, the Fly More Combo package will include three batteries, ensuring that the fun doesn’t have to stop after just one flight. Additionally, the Neo is likely to support DJI’s Motion Controller, allowing for an immersive FPV (First-Person View) experience when paired with the DJI Goggles 3. This feature suggests that while the Neo is beginner-friendly, it also caters to those looking to explore more advanced flight modes and experiences.
