Los Angeles, CA—DJI, provider of civilian drones and creative camera technology, launched a new type of drone. The DJI FPV drone boasts an intuitive, immersive flight experience never available until now.
The DJI FPV combines the first-person view and high-speed performance of racing drones; the cinematic camera sweep of traditional drones; the safety and transmission technology of DJI’s leading consumer drones; and an optional single-handed motion controller that lets pilots control the drone with hand movements.
“DJI has redefined what drones can do since our company began in 2006. As we celebrate our 15-year anniversary this year, we honor that heritage of innovation by redefining what drone flight can be with DJI FPV,” said Ferdinand Wolf, creative director, DJI Europe.
DJI FPV Ecosystem
The DJI FPV ecosystem includes the drone, goggles, a dedicated remote controller, as well as a new intuitive motion controller option. The accessory steers the drone based on the movement of the pilot’s hand.
The drone itself features high-performance motors for faster speeds; an intuitive user interface; and the latest safety features. The new motors bring a racing experience to the system with a max speed of 87 mph and a max acceleration of 0–62 mph in two seconds.
Moreover, the new system lets pilots see from the drone’s perspective in low-latency high definition; that’s thanks to O3, the third iteration of DJI’s OcuSync technology. Its enhanced reliability and transmission range help pilots capture stable 4K video at 60 fps. And it does so with the assistance of RockSteady electronic image stabilization. Further, O3 transmission offers a 10km transmission range; auto-switching dual-frequencies; a high bitrate of 50 Mpbs; and anti-interference methods to ensure a reliable feed.
Notably, amateur and professional pilots alike can explore the skies with the assistance of three distinct flight modes. What’s more, advanced safety features include the new emergency brake and hover feature. This function helps make flying safer and less intimidating for new users. Other safety solutions are DJI’s GPS-based geofencing to advise pilots of airspace restrictions and potential hazards.
In addition, an ADS-B receiver system warns pilots when other manned aircraft are nearby. This system provides audio and visual notifications to the pilot via the FPV Goggles when traditional aircraft, such as airplanes or helicopters equipped with ADS-B transmitters, are nearby.
For Every Skill Level
Furthermore, this is the first integrated FPV drone that permits pilots, from beginners to professionals, to choose from multiple flight modes to match their skill level.
During normal (N) mode operation, the device operates similar to other DJI drones; it hovers in place with the use of GPS and/or visual positioning systems (VPS). The most approachable flight mode, N mode allows for obstacle detection sensors on the front to activate and warn when obstacles are near. Pilots are also tasked with maneuvering the drone away from any detected obstacles.
Manual (M) mode enables experienced pilots to take full control of the drone. While in M mode, all sensors and hovering features are disabled.
Finally, sport (S) mode is a new hybrid blend of M and N mode. It offers some of the dynamic movement capabilities of M mode along with some of the safety features of N mode. S mode is the middle step between the three modes to give pilots more room to explore their skills as they get accustomed to FPV flight.
Pilots can also use a suite of safety features. The dedicated emergency brake and hover feature is available in all flying modes to make the drone stop and hover in place at any time. In addition, obstacle detection sensors activated while operating in N mode alert pilots of obstacles. Subsequently, they will automatically slow down the aircraft. 
Furthermore, VPS and an auxiliary light on the bottom of the aircraft are also available to assist in smooth takeoffs and landings. Another important feature is failsafe return to home, which brings the drone back to its home point automatically with a press of a button; it also activates if the transmission signal is lost.
Key Features
The drone uses DJI’s latest HD transmission technology. Pilots can see a clear, long-range, low-latency feed from the DJI FPV while wearing the DJI FPV Goggles V2.
Announced in 2019, the DJI HD transmission system brought low-latency, HD digital feed to the market. The new DJI FPV system uses that same technology to bring a clear image to the goggles with ultralow latency. Pilots can choose from several different viewing options:
- High-Quality Mode: See the world in 1,440x810p in either 60 fps with a wider 142° field of view (FOV) or 50 fps with 150° FOV. Latency is as low as ≤ 40 ms.
- Low-Latency Mode: Pilots activate high frame rates for a more cinematic look; latency is decreased to ≤ 28 ms. Resolution is 1,440×810p at 120 fps with a 142° FOV or 100 fps at 150° FOV.
- Audience Mode: The pilot can share his perspective in this mode. It connects up to eight additional goggle sets to the pilot’s view.
Another impressive feature is an integrated 4K/60-fps, 120 Mbps camera. It is on a single-axis gimbal, providing stability during intricate maneuvers while rotating vertically for unique angles.
Additionally, RockSteady stabilization technology smooths shaky footage and eliminates the rolling shutter effect when filming fast-moving scenes. Pilots can also record footage in 4x slow motion in 1080p and 120 fps to relive moments in detail. What’s more, they can now store footage in H.265 or H.264, which uses less space on a memory card but preserves fine details.
Updated DJI Fly App
The new drone is also supported by the latest version of the DJI Fly app, which includes detailed tutorials. In addition, the newly developed DJI Virtual Flight app is a free simulator app that familiarizes new pilots with drone flying movements in a risk-free environment. The simulator allows pilots to fly the drone in various settings using the dedicated controller.
The DJI FPV drone is offered in several options. The standard DJI FPV combo includes the FPV drone, remote controller 2, FPV Goggles V2, all required cables and one battery for the retail price of $1,299.
The DJI FPV Fly More kit bundles two additional intelligent flight batteries and the dedicated charging hub for the retail price of $299. Finally, the optional motion controller is sold separately for $199.
