DJI today announced its latest drone, Mavic Air 2, which is a follow up of the two years old Mavic Air. This one comes with better video capabilities and battery life despite retailing at the same price as its predecessor, US$799.
Videographers and photographers will definitely be impressed by the 48MP camera which is capable of shooting 4K videos at 60 FPS at 160 Mbps as well as 8K video timelapse. Its sensor features pixel binning can create higher-quality 12-megapixel images, and when needed, you can use the full 48MP resolution. Additionally, it can shoot HDR video at up 4K 30 FPS, plus slow-motion at up to 240 FPS in 1080P.
DJI also said that they had improved the imagery of the drone's AI to recognize scenes and choose the shooting mode automatically. For example, it can select Night Mode for the night and HDR for daytime without requiring your intervention.
The new Mavic Air is a bit heavier than its predecessor as it weighs 570 g and Mavic Air weigh 430 g. It comes with a larger battery that is capable of flying for 34 minutes instead of 21. Its video transmission technology is also improved, and it is now reliable at distances of up to 10 km³.
DJI also said that they have improved object detection sensors and AI. This new Mavic Air introduces version 3.0 of DJI's APAS (Advanced Pilot Assistance System), which detects objects and reroutes the drone automatically to avoid a collision.
The new version uses 3D mapping for greater fluidity even when you are using your drone in complex environments. This drone is also the first from DJI that uses AirSense technology that receives signals from nearby aircraft and warns the pilots about their approach.
Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, DJI is planning a bit of a staggered rollout. It will start selling the Air 2 in China today, but people in other regions can also begin placing orders. The drone will then be available in the US on May 11 and available in Canada on May 15, with other areas to follow.
Pricing of the drone starts at US$799 for the basic drone package, but if you want an extra shoulder bag, three spare batteries, ND filters, and a charging hub, you will only need to add US$189 and pay US$988.
