- Latest version of DJI’s Fly mobile app adds Apple Watch support
- Compatible drone models are DJI Neo, Neo 2 and Flip
- Apple Watch Series 8 or higher required
Despite the looming prospect of an outright ban in the US, DJI is quietly working not only on new drone models but also on improving the performance and features of existing drones.
Those looking for evidence of this last point need look no further than the exciting new update to the DJI Fly mobile app, which adds the ability to monitor and control any of the three DJI drone models using an Apple Watch.
All of the models in question are small, affordable selfie drones: the DJI Neo, the DJI Neo 2, and the DJI Flip. Each of these drones has been designed for simple, controller-free, smartphone-controlled flight, so adding Apple Watch control seems like a logical progression.
The update, which brings the app to version 1.19.4, allows users to pair their Apple Watch and the drone over Wi-Fi and subsequently view a live feed from the drone’s camera, monitor battery life, and provide voice commands for flight tasks using the Watch.
Unfortunately, it seems that manual flight control using the watch’s touchscreen is out of the question, but perhaps it’s for the best given the small size of the screen and the fact that users will only have one hand free while using it.
The update notes say that an Apple Watch Series 8 or higher model is required, but owners of older models may want to try it anyway; A Series 7 user on Reddit claims to have tested it successfully.
Having tested these three drones myself, I can say that they are very designed for this type of control. While larger DJI drones fly farther and higher, and really require the full, precise hand control that a dual-stick setup offers, the Neo and Flip excel at short autonomous flights, where they take off from your hand, fly a short distance, capture a shot, and return to land in your palm.
More DJI innovation on the way?
There’s a lot to expect from DJI, especially for those living outside the US. While it seems likely that the impending ban will mean that DJI’s temporary pause on product launches becomes permanent, it seems likely that the company will keep its release cycle consistent in other markets.
Two long-rumored products that I’m really looking forward to are the DJI Avata 360, supposedly the brand’s first drone to feature a 360 camera, and the DJI Osmo Pocket 4, an updated edition of the gorgeous ultra-compact stabilized vlogging camera. Look out for more news on these and other DJI releases in the coming weeks.
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