- Latest version of DJI's Fly mobile app adds Apple Watch compatibility
- Supported drone models are DJI Neo, Neo 2 and Flip
- Apple Watch Series 8 or above required
Despite the looming prospect of a total ban in the USA, DJI is quietly working not only on new drone models but on improving performance and features for the drones that are already out there.
Those looking for proof of the latter point need look no further than the exciting new update for the DJI Fly mobile app, which adds the ability to monitor and control any one of three DJI drone models using an Apple Watch.
The models in question are all small, affordable selfie drones: the DJI Neo, the DJI Neo 2 and the DJI Flip. Each of these drones has been designed for simple controller-free and smartphone-controlled flight, so adding Apple Watch control feels like a logical progression.
The update, which takes the app to version 1.19.4, allows users to pair their Apple Watch and drone via Wi-Fi, and subsequently view a live feed from the drone's camera, monitor battery life and provide voice commands for flight tasks using the Watch.
Sadly, it seems as though manual flight control using the Watch's touchscreen is out of the question, but perhaps that's for the best given the tiny size of the screen and the fact that users will only have one hand to spare while wearing it.
The update's notes say that an Apple Watch Series 8 or better model is required, but owners of older models may want to give it a shot anyway; one Series 7 user on Reddit claims to have tested it successfully.
Having tested all three of these drones myself, I can say that they're very much designed for this type of control. While larger DJI drones fly further and higher, and genuinely require the precise full manual control offered by a twin-stick setup, the Neo and Flip excel at short autonomous flights, where they take off from your hand, fly a short distance, capture a shot and return to land back on your palm.
More DJI innovation on the way?
There's a lot to look forward to from DJI, particularly for those that live outside of the US. While the imminent ban seems likely to mean DJI's temporary hiatus from product launches becomes a permanent one, the company seems likely to maintain its steady release cycle in other markets.
Two long-rumored products I'm really looking forward to are the DJI Avata 360, reportedly the brand's first drone to feature a 360 camera, and the DJI Osmo Pocket 4, an updated edition of the superb ultra-compact stabilized vlogging camera. Look out for more news on these and other DJI launches in the coming weeks.
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