DJI Launches the Neo 2, but Only in China (for Now)
DJI has just announced the Neo 2, the follow-up to its lightweight Neo drone. However, the new model is currently exclusive to the Chinese market, with a global release reportedly scheduled for November 13.
Major Upgrades and Smarter Flight Tech
The DJI Neo 2 introduces several major improvements over its predecessor. The standout upgrade is an omnidirectional obstacle avoidance system, designed to ensure safer flight in a variety of environments.
This setup combines forward-facing LiDAR with downward infrared sensors, helping the drone avoid collisions even in low light and during landings. DJI has also added a new Return to Palm feature, making retrieval more intuitive for casual users and vloggers.
Improved Camera and Gimbal System
Video quality sees a noticeable jump, with the Neo 2 now capable of 4K 60fps recording, doubling the frame rate from the original Neo’s 4K 30fps. Users can even record 4K 100fps slow-motion footage when using a remote or motion controller.
While the drone retains the 1/2-inch CMOS sensor, it now pairs it with a faster F/2.2 lens (previously F/2.8), which should enhance low-light performance and color clarity.
DJI also upgraded the gimbal from 1-axis to 2-axis stabilization, allowing for smoother footage and greater creative control when filming dynamic scenes.
Smarter Tracking and Flight Features
The ActiveTrack system has been improved with a new Cycling mode, capable of tracking subjects moving up to 12 m/s, up from 8 m/s in the previous model.
The Neo 2 also expands its suite of Intelligent Flight Modes, adding SelfieShot, Dolly Zoom, and MasterShots to the familiar QuickShots selection.
Longer Range, More Storage, and Better Connectivity
Battery life has been slightly improved, offering up to 19 minutes of flight time. Wi-Fi control range has seen a massive jump—from 50m to 500m—while the remote range remains at 10km.
Storage has nearly doubled as well, with 49GB of internal memory compared to 22GB on the original Neo. Despite the added features, the drone remains lightweight, weighing 151 grams, only slightly more than the Neo’s 135 grams.
Pricing and Availability
In China, the DJI Neo 2 starts at HKD $1,669 (around $214 USD). Available bundles include:
- Fly More Combo: HKD $2,229
- Fly More Combo with RC-N3 Remote: HKD $2,789
- Motion Fly More Combo: HKD $4,129
DJI notes that international buyers can already purchase the Neo 2 directly from its official store, though pricing and availability will vary. The global release is expected on November 13, priced at around $259 USD, likely due to tariffs.
What About U.S. Availability?
One major question remains: will the Neo 2 reach U.S. shores? DJI’s recent drones—the Mavic 4 Pro and Mini 5 Pro—are still unavailable in the U.S. due to pending FCC clearance.
Until these regulatory issues are resolved, it could be some time before any of DJI’s 2025 models, including the Neo 2, are officially sold through the DJI U.S. online store.