In 2017, DJI made waves in the drone market with the introduction of the Spark. This palm-sized drone, equipped with gesture control and priced below $500, was specifically targeted at social media enthusiasts. It quickly gained a following, but unfortunately, DJI quietly discontinued the Spark in 2019. However, DJI has returned to the compact drone market with the launch of the new Neo at IFA in Berlin.
Similar to its predecessor, the Neo boasts the ability to land in the palm of the user’s hand, making it incredibly portable. Weighing in at just 135 grams, DJI claims that it is the “most compact and lightest” drone they have ever produced. Despite its small size, the Neo is packed with features that appeal to social media users and influencers, such as remote-free control.
Drawbacks of Compact Design
One of the biggest drawbacks of the Neo’s small footprint is its limited battery life. With a flight time of just 18 minutes on a single charge, users may find themselves restricted in the activities they can undertake with the drone. While the Neo is not intended to replace the Mavic Mini, DJI’s other compact drone offering, it does cater to a specific niche market.
Advanced AI Functionality
The Neo’s navigation system relies heavily on subject tracking and other AI functions. This makes capturing shots with the drone easier for beginners and ensures a smooth flying experience. DJI has incorporated various shooting modes into the Neo, including Dronie, Circle, Rocket, Spotlight, Helix, and Boomerang, each designed to enhance the user’s creative capabilities.
Despite its innovative features, the Neo will only be available in limited quantities initially. The drone is currently available for pre-sale in the U.S., with pricing starting at $199 for the base configuration and $289 when bundled with three extra batteries. While DJI has not provided a specific ship date yet, interest in the Neo is already high among drone enthusiasts.
Overall, DJI’s Neo drone represents a bold move back into the compact drone market. With its user-friendly design, advanced features, and social media appeal, the Neo has the potential to carve out a niche for itself among consumers. Despite its small size, the Neo packs a powerful punch and offers a unique flying experience for drone enthusiasts of all levels.