DJI’s Neo 2 Selfie Drone: Smarter, Faster, and Ready for Action
DJI has unveiled the Neo 2, the successor to its original selfie drone released last September. This new iteration builds upon its predecessor’s foundation with significant upgrades, including obstacle avoidance and gesture control capabilities. The Neo 2 is designed to be user-friendly while offering enhanced performance and safety features.
Enhanced Features for a Seamless Experience
The Neo 2 introduces several key enhancements. It now features an obstacle avoidance system that utilizes forward-looking LIDAR and downward-looking infrared sensors. This allows the drone to detect and avoid hazards during forward and sideways flight modes. Despite being slightly larger and 16 grams heavier than the original, weighing in at 151 grams, the Neo 2’s added functionality and larger battery justify the trade-off. The drone retains its integrated guards to protect the propellers, adding an extra layer of safety.
DJI has also increased the drone’s maximum following speed to 12m/s, or nearly 27mph, which is a considerable upgrade from the original Neo, even after a firmware update. The Neo 2 also demonstrates improved performance in less-than-ideal conditions. The original Neo struggled with stability in windy conditions, but the Neo 2 can maintain a stable hover in winds up to 24mph.
Gesture Controls and Improved Camera
The Neo 2 is designed to capture compelling drone footage autonomously, but it also supports DJI’s RC-N3 and motion controllers, as well as its Goggles N3 headset. DJI has introduced gesture controls, enabling users to adjust the drone’s position and distance by hand movements. The drone also features a small screen to display its operational mode. The Neo 2 also boasts a larger 1,606mAh rechargeable battery, extending flight times up to 19 minutes.
The drone’s camera has been upgraded with a dual-axis gimbal for enhanced stability. While maintaining the same half-inch sensor as the original, the Neo 2 now offers a wider field of view and can capture 4K footage at up to 60fps, or up to 100fps when piloted manually.
Availability and Pricing
The DJI Neo 2 is primarily launching in China. Pricing starts at 1,499 Chinese Yuan (approximately $211). DJI is also offering bundles that include extra batteries and a multi-charger, as well as a bundle with its motion control joystick and Goggles N3. The Neo 2 presents a compelling and more affordable alternative to offerings from HoverAir, including its entry-level X1.
Source: The Verge
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