Multiple sources have confirmed today that the DJI CrystalSky Monitor is now compatible with the just-released Mavic 2 Pro and Mavic 2 Zoom series of drones.
When the Mavic 2 drones were released last month there was some angst from buyers that CrystalSky was not compatible, however DJI did promise it was coming without announcing a specific date.
Mavic 2 buyers who have been holding back on purchasing CrystalSky are now cleared for purchase, as the update is available both as a side-loaded APK and is being ‘pushed’ to the device by DJI.
Why CrystalSky?
For those new to aerial imaging, one of the first things you’ll notice is the impact direct sunlight has on whatever device you use to run the DJI GO 4 app.
We film with an iPhone 6, iPad Mini 2 or an iPad Pro depending on the convenience or which is closest to full charge. Any of the Apple products provides a screen brightness just shy of 500 nits. On the brightest days, even when we have shade, being able to reliable see the screen is an issue. Even at full brightness.
The DJI CrystalSky comes in two flavors: High Bright and Ultra Bright. At 1000 nits, the High Brightness is more than double the daylight brightness of an iPad or iPhone. The UltraBright version, available only as a 7.85″ screen (about the same size as an iPad Mini) enjoys 2000 nits or more than 4x the brightness of an iPad.
The first time you try to fly your drone at mid-day in Mexico, you’ll understand why this brightness matters.
Related: Taking Your Drone To Mexico – What To Know Before You Go
The second reason for CrystalSky is temperature. With it’s own built in fan it keeps the device cool in the summer and the cold weather tolerance is off the chart.
Before we had CrystalSky our iPad and iPhone would literally shut down (we’re in Canada) within minutes on cold winter days here in the Great White North. On hot days, we would regularly get overheating warnings from the Apple devices that probably weren’t good for battery longevity.
In cold weather the DJI CrystalSky excels.
How To Get The Update For Mavic 2 Drones
The DJI CrystalSky update for Mavic 2 is available two ways.
Because CrystalSky runs on a custom Android OS, you can simply download the APK and sideload it…details here. If you don’t know how to do that check out Youtube for videos that can walk you through the process. But heed our warning: If you aren’t familiar with how to sideload an APK, you run the risk of bricking your CrystalSky. If in doubt, do it with the push from DJI over the air.
The second way is just to fire up your CrystalSky and Mavic 2 while on WiFi and let the push from DJI roll through. If you’re in a region other than North America, please let our readers know your ‘push status’ for the update in the comments below.
One Important Caution
If you haven’t yet purchased a DJI CrystalSky monitor there’s one very important piece of information you need to know: it doesn’t come with a charger!
Not sure why DJI went this route, but the fact is they did. To charge your CrystalSky you can use a Phantom 3, Phantom 4 or Inspire charger available here.
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DJI CrystalSky Monitor
Phantom 3 Charger
Phantom 4 Charger
Inspire 1/2 Charger
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