DJI has just made significant improvements to its $199 Neo selfie drone, targeting a key demographic of users including TikTok and Instagram Reels influencers. Initially, the Neo faced criticism due to its limitations in two crucial areas: it was unable to record vertical videos, and its tracking capabilities could not keep pace with competitors like the $350 Hover X1. However, the new firmware update has addressed both issues, making the Neo a more appealing option for content creators who rely heavily on vertical video for social media.
The recent enhancements include the introduction of vertical video recording and a notable boost in the drone’s tracking speed, enabling it to keep up with fast-moving subjects, such as cyclists. Reports from tech reviewer DC Rainmaker indicate that the Neo can now track a cyclist at speeds up to 20 miles per hour (32 kph). This upgrade not only allows the drone to capture dynamic footage more effectively, but it also surpasses the manual flying speeds achievable in sport mode, raising hopes that future updates may enhance first-person view (FPV) flying capabilities as well.
While the addition of vertical mode for video capture is likely to excite many users, it does come with some compromises. The vertical videos are limited to the drone’s 1080p resolution, which, although decent, does not reach the higher standard of 4K supported by some competing models. Users can shoot at 60 frames per second in this mode, and reviews have noted that the quality of the 1080p vertical footage is comparable to that available in the horizontal filming mode.
To leverage these new features, users must ensure that they are operating the latest version of the DJI Fly app. Without this update, the vertical video option may not appear across various flight modes. Android users should be aware that they might need to manually update the app and permit installation from unknown sources, as DJI has not listed its Fly app on the Google Play Store for some time now, adding an extra layer of complexity for Android device owners.
As more users explore the upgraded functionalities of the Neo, DJI is positioning itself to dominate the market for affordable, user-friendly selfie drones. With influencers increasingly favoring content that resonates with platforms like TikTok, features like vertical video recording and improved tracking are critical. The enhancements to the Neo may very well result in the drone becoming a staple for social media enthusiasts looking to elevate their content creation efforts.
Overall, DJI’s proactive approach in addressing the feedback highlighted previously showcases their commitment to customer satisfaction and innovation. As the competition remains fierce in the aerial photography space, these updates could not only bolster the Neo’s success but also retain DJI’s stature as a leading brand in the drone industry.