Some recently-leaked images have spurred rumors that DJI is about enter the selfie/lifestyle drone market with a new model. The leaked images, along with a new product name — Mavic, which was trademarked by DJI on August 15th, are clear indications that the established drone maker is about to release something new.
The images show a quadcopter with foldable motor arms and propellers which also features a camera that is fully enclosed in a transparent dome. The DJI Mavic, when fully folded, is significantly smaller than a Phantom 4.
The Mavic’s compact size and portability have fueled rumors that it may be DJI’s first attempt at producing a ready-to-fly FPV racer. The opening of the DJI Arena in South Korea last month gives us even more reason to believe that the upcoming Mavic could very well be an FPV racer. After all, who would want to fly an Inspire 1 or Phantom 4 through the obstacle course at the Arena?
The Mavic could also be a lifestyle or selfie drone, considering that Yuneec recently released the Breeze and GoPro is expected to release its much-anticipated Karma drone on September 19. Both the Karma and Breeze are aimed at the selfie/lifestyle drone market.
In this leaked image by SB-DJI, the Mavic battery is about the same size as a Phantom’s.
In this leaked image by SB-DJI, the Mavic battery is about the same size as a Phantom’s.
And finally, there is the possibility that the Mavic could be an FPV racer that also doubles as a selfie/lifestyle drone. Whatever it is, we can only speculate on the Mavic for now. The good news is, it is expected to be released this month.