DJI is now selling the Phantom 4, the new drone model that replaces the widely popular Phantom 3.
The Phantom 4 is a smart camera drone that can fly itself, using computer vision to avoid obstacles and follow courses.
In this new improved model, DJI focused on the logic of a smart drone that flies using its cameras to avoid obstacles. In other words, the Phantom 4 does not exactly follow predetermined flight plans but makes decisions and adjusts its flight based on what it sees around it.
There are 5 cameras on it, a central 4K one hanging on the board, 2 cameras on the front side and 2 cameras on the bottom. Using these cameras, the new drone is able to create a 3D model of the world around it and use the data to navigate itself, detecting obstacles up to 15 meters away.
It also features a smart return to base system that allows you to call the Drone back to you when you are finished filming.
Another new feature is ActiveTrack, which allows the drone to track a subject... without the help of a special accessory or a radio beacon.
The flight duration has been extended, allowing for a flight of 28 minutes, a 25% increase over previous models. The range is 5 km. Its maximum speed reaches 76 km per hour.
The Phantom 4 features a magnesium body that allows it to be durable without being too heavy or rigid. The new battery placement gives it a higher center of gravity, allowing it to be more agile and responsive to commands.
DJI says this latest model is 5 times better at hovering in the air compared to previous models.
It has a 4K camera on top. There's a 1/2.3-inch sensor, which has a maximum ISO of 1600 for photos and 3200 for video. The camera can record 4K at 30fps and 1080p Full HD at 120fps for slow motion. Photos are 12 megapixels and can be saved as Adobe DNG RAW.
The DJI Phantom 4 is available today for $1399 from the DJI store. It will also be available at major retailers in the coming days.
Watch the company's official video below:
