The next-generation quadcopter from DJI features obstacle avoidance and Return-to-Home safety feature. Gadget lovers can own the all-new Phantom 4 starting March 29. Now, here's the latest round-up of update about DJI Phantom 4 release date, price, and specs.
Design-wise, the upcoming Phantom drone is sleeker than the Phantom 3. The new quadcopter has a more futuristic look and much-improved aerodynamic structure. The Phantom 4 is also faster than its previous versions. The upcoming drone moves at 45mph, up from about 35mph from the Phantom 3 series. This speed level can be achieved in new Sport Mode.
DJI promises longer flight time for the Phantom 4. Enjoy longer flying time for 28 minutes, a full five minutes more than the Phantom 3.
More speed and the longer flight is a plus, but they won't stop the drone from slamming into a tree or your neighbor's house. The new Obstacle Sensing System helps the gadget to avoid a collision against hard surfaces. The two forward-facing cameras detect obstacles as far as 49.5 feet (15 meters) ahead of the quadcopter.
If there's an obstacle, The Phantom will immediately stop moving forward to alert the pilot and avoid a crash.
The sensors can also be used in Return-to-Home safety feature. This allows the drone to go back automatically to its users, even if there's a building or some trees between the pilot and the drone.
Furthermore, there's ActiveTrack feature in the Phantom 4. Just tap the desired subject on the screen and the drone starts to follow it and keep the camera centered on the subject. DJI claims that even if other objects enter the frame, the camera is still focused on the subject.
Another new flight mode is called Tapfly. Double tap on a point on the screen and the Phantom 4 will go there. The drone also automatically chooses flight path to go to that desired point in space, avoiding possible collisions.
Phantom 4 is equipped with a clearer camera that can record 4K videos with a 94-degree (20mm full-frame equivalent) angle of view. The improved lenses show better detail at the edges of the frame.
According to PC Advisor, the DJI Phantom 4 will be available for the price of $1,399, a bit more than the Phantom 3's initial retail price.
For those who are interested in a protection plan, DJI is offering a six-month package for the price of $229, and a one-year plan is at $299.
