In a major industry revelation, drone enthusiast Jasper Ellens has unveiled the world’s first images and video of the highly awaited DJI Flip, showcasing an unprecedented design shift for the Chinese drone giant. The leak hints at a January 2025 release, potentially marking the end of the DJI Mini 5 series, as shared on X. More info can be found on the FCC listing DF1A042424
Breaking: Thanks to my friend YueYue this is the worlds first view of the #DJIFLIP. The Flip will be the next gen #foldable DJI drone (video). If you were waiting on a Mini 5. This is it. It will have O4 and probably LiDAR. Prop guards are like FPV carbon fiber. Cheers! Jasper pic.twitter.com/uhumLWXLup
— Jasper Ellens | X27 (@JasperEllens) December 1, 2024
Pioneering Design Aspects of the DJI Flip
The revealed details highlight a significant departure from DJI’s conventional designs.
“Breaking: Thanks to my friend YueYue, this is the first-ever glimpse of the #DJIFLIP,” Ellens posted. “If you were expecting a Mini 5, this is it. It includes O4 and likely LiDAR. Prop guards resemble FPV-style carbon fiber.”
The Flip boasts a revolutionary top-loading battery system with dual side-release buttons. Video footage demonstrates a unique arm-folding mechanism, akin to DJI’s foldable drone series but with innovative features emphasizing propulsion and safety.
Cutting-Edge Specifications
The DJI Flip seems equipped with several remarkable features:
- Ducted propellers for quieter, safer operation
- Advanced LiDAR system matching DJI Air 3S sensor capabilities
- 3-axis gimbal for stabilized aerial recording
- Single support leg beneath each front propeller
- Comprehensive obstacle avoidance system
- O4 video transmission technology
- A design partially reminiscent of the Hover Air X1 Pro Max
Market Positioning and Potential Mini 5 Replacement
Contrary to speculation about its potential as an FPV drone, the Flip appears aligned with the Mini series.
“My assumption is the Mini 5 won’t materialize,” Ellens stated. “Some believed the Mini 5 rumors, but I think DJI avoids the number 5. This seems like the next-gen portable option.”
Drone enthusiasts have debated its size, noting that it seems larger than the Mini series.
“Mini is very compact when folded. FLIP looks bigger, especially with its large propellers. In a bag, Mini feels much smaller,” one user commented on X.
Safety and Performance Enhancements
The ducted propeller system represents a breakthrough in drone safety and noise reduction. Ellens believes the design could rival or surpass the quiet operation of the Mini 4.
“The props are likely larger with a lower pitch, potentially making it as silent as the Mini 4,” he explained.
Preliminary technical data reveals a 7.16V/3110 mAh (22.3 Wh) battery system, with full performance specifications yet to be disclosed. The inclusion of the Air 3S-style LiDAR system underscores DJI’s commitment to advanced obstacle avoidance in this model.
FilmPix Media’s Perspective
The DJI Flip signifies a pivotal leap in drone innovation. By merging cutting-edge LiDAR technology with advanced ducted propeller systems, DJI is redefining expectations in the consumer drone market. The anticipated January launch suggests a bold start to 2025 for the company.
The emphasis on safety and noise reduction makes it an attractive choice for urban environments, while the advanced obstacle avoidance capabilities cater to both novice and seasoned pilots. If this indeed replaces the Mini 5, it reflects a transformative shift in DJI’s consumer drone strategy.
What do you think of DJI’s bold new design? Could this innovation signal a broader industry transformation? Share your thoughts below.