- 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 later required
Despite the looming prospect of a total ban in the United States, DJI has been quietly working not only on new drone models, but also on improving the performance and features of drones already available.
Those looking for proof of the latter point need look no further than the exciting new update to the DJI Fly mobile app, which adds the ability to monitor and control any 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 was designed for simple, controller-free, smartphone-controlled flight, so adding Apple Watch control seems like a logical progression.
The update, which brings the app to version 1.19.4, allows users to pair their Apple Watch and drone over Wi-Fi, then view a live feed from the drone’s camera, monitor battery life, and provide voice commands for flight tasks using the watch.
Unfortunately, it appears that manual flight control using the watch’s touchscreen is out of the question, but perhaps that’s for the best considering the screen’s small size and the fact that users will only have one hand free while wearing it.
The update notes state that an Apple Watch Series 8 or higher model is required, but owners of older models may still want to give it a try; a Series 7 user on Reddit claims to have successfully tested it.
Having tested these three drones myself, I can say that they are perfectly designed for this type of control. While larger DJI drones fly further and higher and truly require the full, precise manual control offered by a dual-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 on your palm.
Other DJI innovations on the way?
There’s a lot to expect from DJI, especially for those living outside of the United States. Although the impending ban seems likely to mean that DJI’s temporary hiatus in product releases will become permanent, the company seems likely to maintain its regular release cycle in other markets.
Two long-talked-about products that I’m looking forward to are the DJI Avata 360, said to be 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. Watch for more information on these and other DJI launches in the coming weeks.
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