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In recent years, the market for drones has skyrocketed in popularity – with more and more manufacturers pushing out stellar options for consumers worldwide. And with the current DJI Avata 2 rumors abound, we could be set for another terrific entry to the genre. DJI are a leading manufacturer across a range of tech exports, from gimbals to microphones, and the original Avata was an extremely popular unit. Can its successor garner the same success?
We’ve compiled as much as we know about the DJI Avata 2, assessing the rumors and leaks to see what we can learn about this highly-anticipated drone. Though there’s little concrete information on this unit, we’ve done our best to cut through the noise and set expectations for the Avata 2.
DJI Avata 2 Release Window Speculation
Whilst we don’t have any concrete DJI Avata 2 release date information at present, the product is expected imminently. DJI have filed the drone in the FCC database, all but confirming an upcoming announcement. Given standard production pipelines, we’d expect the Avata 2 to be ready approximately 3 months after an announcement – with a possible pre-order window for the most eager.
With this in mind, we predict that the DJI Avata 2 will be announced in April or May 2024, which would consequently lead to a release date window in July 2024. Take this with a grain of salt, however: at time of writing, all we know is to expect the product.
DJI Avata 2 Features We’d Like to See
Before diving into what could feature in the Avata 2, it’s important to see what the new drone will be building off of.
DJI Avata
4K Video
FPV Goggles
Motion Controller
The Avata 2 is a sterling addition to any drone user’s arsenal, boasting a gamut of useful features and DJI’s great set of first-person view (FPV) goggles. It employs a CineWhoop design, engineered for smooth and cinematic footage with a first-person perspective. It excels in tight spaces, with a compact frame and high maneuverability for even easier use. The drone camera utilizes a 1.7″ CMOS sensor capable of 12MP equivalent still resolution. Video shoots in 4K at 60FPS, with DJI’s RockSteady technology making for shake-free footage.
The Avata packs an approximate maximum range of 11.6 kilometers, and a top speed of 60mph (depending on the conditions). The drone is controlled via an intuitive motion controller, which when coupled with the FPV goggles makes for an immersive and easy flying experience. Though these are all tremendous features, it’s worth noting that the drone isn’t perfect. With a battery life of only 20 minutes, it’s difficult to get long sessions out of this drone without investing in expensive additional batteries. It hasn’t stopped this drone from becoming a favorite among FPV racers, filmmakers, and landscape photographers.
We know to expect the Avata 2 later this year, but concrete details are scattered beyond that. Some specifications have leaked, highlighting some core features. The Avata 2 seems to keep to the same CineWhoop design philosophy, with some general quality-of-life tweaks and streamlining. Given the original Avata released in 2022, advancements in the overall design are welcome. It’s speculated that the Avata 2 will use a unique new rotor design for quieter flying, something we always like to see in a drone. We can only speculate on speed and range at this point, but given that other FPV drones can reach speeds up to 100mph, the sky is – literally – the limit for what DJI can accomplish.
The most likely and obvious upgrade will be from the Avata’s DJI Goggles 2 up to their new DJI Goggles 3 – the specifications and features of which have been circulating similarly to the Avata 2. Smaller design with higher resolution, this pair of goggles is even said to feature AR technology similar to that seen in the Apple Vision Pro. Given that the FPV goggles are the primary means of flying the Avata drone, an upgrade to them is almost as essential as an upgrade to the drone itself.
In terms of other drone specifications, little is known. The rumors suggest that the Avata 2 will use the camera from DJI’s Mini 3 Pro: this could mean a 48MP sensor equivalent. This unit would also have a slightly less wide-angle lens, up to 20mm focal length equivalent from 12mm on the original Avata. We think this would be an improvement, for brighter photos and videos, and less of a fisheye look to footage that’s cumbersome to correct.
One interesting feature that seems to be downgraded is the aforementioned battery life: the FCC filing seems to point to a 2150mAh, less than the original Avata’s. We’re also not sure if there will be any additional improvements, such as collision sensors or a built-in GPS. The Avata relies on a smartphone connection for geo-placement, which can negate the distance and speed capabilities of the drone should you go out-of-range.
FAQs
A Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) sensor is a type of camera sensor that turns light signals into digital ones, effectively converting light readings into pixels. Nearly all digital cameras employ a CMOS sensor: the bigger, the better.
As with most aspects of drone technology, you should take great care when operating so as to not damage the drone, the surroundings, or yourself. With the FPV goggles on your head, the risks to your own safety are increased. Always practice FPV drone piloting in a safe location where you aren’t liable to injure yourself.
In Summary
Though a concrete DJI Avata 2 release date is not confirmed, the information we have points to it not being far away. Once the drone is announced, we’ll have all the latest information on this new cutting-edge drone as it is revealed.
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