- The FCC has expanded its exemption from software updates for DJI drones
- The last extension ends on January 1, 2029.
- You can also comment on the DJI ban
The US Federal Communications Commission’s ban on new DJI drones and its other technology has been frustrating for camera enthusiasts and professionals alike, as they’ll miss 25 releases this year alone, but we finally have a silver lining, even if it’s a small one.
Your older DJI drones should remain reliable for a while longer.
This is because the FCC has announced that it will extend the exemption for certain drones to receive software updates in the US. It was previously scheduled to expire on January 1, 2027, but will now last at least until January 1, 2029; Foreign Internet routers have also had access to the software extended to this date (via Tom’s Hardware).
In terms of access to hardware, nothing has changed, but it means that manufacturers should not be prevented from releasing essential security patches or bug fixes for technology already sold (at least not until 2029). Previously, this was a fear once the exemption expired, and could have left some technology unable to function if it encountered a technical problem, or turned your drone into the type of safety risk that the FCC ban is intended to prevent.
Meanwhile, DJI is attempting to appeal the FCC ruling in US courts. The ban came as DJI was placed on the ‘Covered List’ (a list of entities believed to be a threat to national security), although neither the FCC nor the US government have explained exactly what DJI has done to deserve this designation.
At the same time, these entities refused to conduct a security audit of DJI, even though the company underwent one.
The entire process has been frustrating to watch, especially given the excellent quality of DJI’s camera and drone technology. Hopefully this exemption extension will help alleviate some issues, but we’ll have to wait and see how DJI’s appeal progresses for a more definitive verdict on the fate of the drone brand in the United States.
Give your opinion
If you’re frustrated with the DJI ban, the FCC is currently giving the public a chance to submit comments on its measures, although the form closes today (May 11), so you don’t have much time left.
As highlighted on the r/drones subreddit, you just need to go to the FCC’s Submit a Quick Comment page and fill out the short form; In the first box, type “26-22” to find the DJI standard you want to comment on.
You will need to provide some personal information (such as your name and address) and then provide your feedback about the ban. You might highlight how DJI drones have positively impacted your life, and/or you might question the confusing implementation of the ban: how it affects all of DJI’s technology rather than just its drones, or how the ban doesn’t seem to apply fairly to other similar drone manufacturers.
Likewise, if you think the ban has had a positive impact (although we here at TechRadar would disagree), you can also leave a comment explaining why you hope the ban sticks.
Just remember to keep your comments civil, the FCC probably won’t appreciate being bombarded with rude or hateful comments, and harsher words wouldn’t help either side’s arguments in this technology debate.
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