DJI's New Drone Is on the Horizon.

However, this upcoming drone doesn't belong to the Mini series, nor is it from the Air or Mavic lines. Instead, it marks DJI's first foray into panoramic aerial photography drones.

Recently, several media outlets have reported that individuals believed to be DJI employees are testing a brand-new aerial photography drone. From the leaked images, it's clear that the drone's design bears a strong resemblance to the DJI AVATA series, with a touch of the racing drone aesthetic.

(Image Source: SBDJI.com)

However, a closer look at the images reveals that the lens module of this new drone is entirely distinct from DJI's previous models. The front lens module area appears devoid of any lenses, with the lenses instead positioned at the top and bottom of the fuselage. Surrounding the module is a ring of sensors, presumably for visual obstacle avoidance, though it's unclear whether they include LiDAR technology.

(Image Source: SBDJI.com)

When considering this alongside DJI's recently launched Osmo 360 panoramic camera, Leitech makes a bold prediction: the CMOS sensor in this drone likely originates from DJI's panoramic camera lineup. Readers familiar with the Osmo 360 may recall that DJI designed a 1:1 ratio one-inch CMOS specifically for optimal panoramic camera performance. At the time, Leitech speculated that this CMOS might have other applications, and now, it appears that this speculation has proven accurate.

Thanks to this advanced CMOS and DJI's own technological prowess, Leitech anticipates that DJI's panoramic drone will boast at least 360-degree panoramic video recording, 8K resolution shooting, stable 10-kilometer transmission via O4 image transmission technology, and a comprehensive obstacle avoidance algorithm.

In terms of design, DJI's panoramic drone features a fully enclosed propeller system and front dual-camera obstacle avoidance. Compared to traditional drones with exposed propellers, this design offers enhanced safety and theoretically stronger wind resistance. However, it remains unclear whether the propellers are foldable for storage; if not, the drone may occupy slightly more space.

(Image Source: SBDJI.com)

Regarding additional accessories, DJI's panoramic drone comes equipped with flight goggles, a racing joystick, and a remote control with a built-in screen. Combined with DJI's years of accumulated expertise in image transmission and obstacle avoidance algorithms, this drone promises to be a highly entertaining product.

Previously, Insta360 unveiled its own panoramic drone, which bore a resemblance to DJI's traditional aerial photography drones in overall design. This time, the exposed DJI panoramic drone appears more akin to a racing drone. Can DJI secure another triumph in the panoramic drone arena?

(Image Source: SBDJI.com)

This also signifies that after launching the Osmo 360 panoramic camera, DJI is set to once again enter Insta360's core market.

(Image Source: Leitech Photography)

However, DJI's strengths are also apparent: it commands over 70% of the global market share, boasts a technological edge fortified by 38,000 patents, and possesses mature flight control, image transmission, and obstacle avoidance systems, along with deeply ingrained brand recognition. The perception that "consumer drones are synonymous with DJI" has become firmly entrenched among users.

From a technological standpoint, DJI's decision to launch a panoramic drone is not surprising. Although panoramic cameras and drones differ significantly in application scenarios and product forms (panoramic cameras focus on 360° image capture, while drones emphasize aerial platforms and flight control), they share notable similarities in core technological pathways, particularly in environmental perception, image processing, intelligent algorithms, and system integration. Thus, DJI's entry is backed by a substantial technological advantage.

From a market perspective, DJI's launch of a panoramic drone is also driven by market forces. According to forecast data from relevant institutions, the next three years will witness a growth period for the civilian aerial photography drone market. Currently, DJI has already introduced products in the entry-level, entry-level fun, portable drone, mid-range flagship, flagship, and top-tier flagship categories. However, it still lacks a drone with strong fun attributes and decent configurations, making the panoramic drone DJI's next logical target.

Judging by the images released by the media, DJI's panoramic drone is compact in size, and its positioning is far from as high-end as the Air, Mavic, and Inspire series. Leitech speculates that this is a trial product, using this affordable and fun offering to gauge market response to such drones. If it performs well, DJI launching a flagship panoramic drone is only a matter of time.

(Image Source: Leitech IFA On-Site Photography)

What pricing range will make users willing to embrace such a "special" aerial photography drone from DJI?

Regardless, DJI's entry into the panoramic drone market is poised to accelerate the reshuffling of the entire panoramic market. DJI is also expected to once again emerge as the rule-maker and market leader. Let's eagerly await the release of DJI's panoramic drone together.