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So far 2017 has been a non-stop DJI rumor mill. And not all of them have panned out…yet.
Even better, we had product launches that weren’t even on the radar screen, like the M600.
Our readers keep reaching out to us, wanting to know what products DJI is going to release at the DJI Media Event on May 24th in New York City.
While we can’t say for 100% certainty what DJI will announce, we do have a short list of what is most likely for them to announce.
So we’re pleased to present (in no particular order) the Most Likely New Products To Be Released in May list:
#1 – DJI Phantom 5
Probability: 49%
DJI has done such a great job of building out high quality, affordable recreational drones in both the fixed wing and a compact folding categories, that we have to wonder where they could go with each.
But we’re confident that the aging Phantom 3 lineup eventually will be abandoned, and the new shelf space will be kept to the fixed-wing development. Enter the Phantom 5.
Rumored Phantom 5 features include:
- dual-camera or 360 degree gimbal, shooting 4k video and stills at
- improved obstacle sensors
- increased battery life >30 minutes (different battery than P4)
- Better tech inside that allows for new App features in flight and imaging
The last point on the list is key. We’ve all suffered ‘functional obsolescence’ in your tech products, and we suspect future software updrades will be limited to the most advanced hardware. The P3 lineup has topped out.
We give a P5 release a lower probability score simply because of timing. A product like P5 looks like it would naturally be timed with the Pre-Christmas sales cycle in the United States.
#2 – DJI Mavic S
Probability: 75%
When we first caught wind of the Mavic S earlier this year, we were a little stumped that DJI would make two Mavics and only release one. Considering there are so many subtle differences between the two, we couldn’t just chalk it up to one being a prototype for the other.
We’ve also heard rumors that the ‘second Mavic’ will be called the Mavic 2. Time will tell, but it has received all of the clearances necessary to be officially kicked out the door.
#3 – DJI Spark mini drone
Probability: 99%
DJI has been constantly expanding it’s dominance in the both the recreational and commercial drone markets. And that dominance comes not just from a robust product lineup, but also the strategic focus to not only capture markets but create them.
The missing link in all of this has been an entry level recreational product.
DJI‘s least expensive drone, the Mavic, costs $999 without any accessories and $1299 in the Fly More Combo. But there isn’t a lower priced product (other than older models of the Phantom 3 series) that allows DJI to capture entry level consumers. Once DJI releases the iPhone-sized Spark, I guarantee you that the majority of those new DJI users will ‘aspire’ to a bigger and better drone in a very short period of time.
The other indicator pointing us to Spark being most likely now is the run-up to ‘Dads and Grads’ based consumer spending. Who doesn’t want a new drone for Father’s Day or Graduation?
#4 – Osmo or Osmo Mobile Update
Probability: 80%
DJI doesn’t push the Osmo very hard. DJI knows it’s ‘bread and butter’ is with drones, but the Osmo and Osmo Mobile are quality niche products that totally fit in with DJI‘s product lineup. We haven’t seen an update on the Osmo or Osmo Mobile for some time, so it may be ripe for a refresh.
#5 – Price Cuts
Probability: 99%
In the weeks leading up to a new product release, DJI tends to lower prices on older or less advanced models. This helps to build more traffic, clear out inventory and make shelf space for what’s coming next.
So expect some discounting in the days leading up to the Media Event. Afterwards, we would not be the least bit surprised to see come compression across the more mature product lines as well.
With just over 2 weeks to go before the DJI Media Event on May 24th, we’re getting close to the time when our inbox and submissions page really starts to buzz.
Stay tuned! Once we hear any rumors about the Media Event we’ll pass them along immediately.
