It definitely looks cute, with the two sensors mounted on the device like frog eyes. But the new DJI Mini 3 Pro should not only be small and compact, but also offer a lot of performance. According to DJI, the mini drone comes with improved flight performance, an upgraded camera system, longer battery life and smart features that were previously only available on the Air and Mavic series.
Mini 3 Pro folds compactly and can be taken anywhere. (Source: DJIGlobal / Twitter)
Everything on offer
For the first time in the series of small drones, the DJI Mini 3 Pro features a 3D obstacle detection system – consisting of forward, backward, and downward facing optical sensors. The manufacturer promises smooth coverage and better road planning in the region. These sensors also enable Advanced Pilot Assistance System (APAS) 4.0, which automatically detects obstacles during flight and finds a safer path around them.
The so-called “FocusTrack-Suite” is also possible thanks to the sensors. Pilots can choose an idea that keeps the drone in the middle of the image during flight, while it then automatically plots its further flight path (called Spotlight 2.0).
Other features of Special Flight and Record Maneuvers are:
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Point of Interest 3.0: Spins around the subject in a specified flight radius and at a specified speed
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Active Track 4.0: Tracks the subject in two selectable ways: Track: The drone tracks the subject at a fixed distance. Parallel: The drone tracks the object as it flies alongside it at a fixed angle and distance.
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And six more flying maneuvers of exciting video recordings: Dronie, Helix, Rocket, Circle, Boomerang, Asteroid, Master Shots and Hyperlapse Time Lapse.
You can also monitor everything with the new DJI RC, a lightweight remote control with a built-in 5.5-inch touchscreen, available at an additional cost. With the Fly app already built into the console, users do not have to connect their smartphone to the console and thus have free hands during the flight.
Two different remote controls are available: on the left is the DJI RC-N1, where the mobile phone serves as a screen. On the right is a DJI RC, with a built-in screen. (Source: DJI)
Video and picture quality
Mini 3 Pro records video in 4k at 60 frames per second, twice the frame rate of the previous model DJI Mini 2. The image quality of the drone has also been improved. The camera’s 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor features Dual Native ISO, a recording technology previously only available on film cameras and some small single cameras. f/1.7 aperture and photos up to 48MP are possible.
Introducing DJI Mini 3 Pro
Featuring obstacle avoidance, 48MP RAW stills and vertical axis rotation, DJI Mini 3 Pro redefines the meaning of flying in miniature.
Oh, and yes, it still weighs less than 249 grams.
Find out more about the DJI Mini 3 Pro: https://t.co/iMawXBBYo1 pic.twitter.com/HVZHYXaVWW
– DJI (DJIGlobal) May 10, 2022
To increase flight time, the manufacturer modified the booms and propellers for more aerodynamic flight. 34 minutes flight duration and possible recording time. In addition, DJI now offers its customers the option to extend flight time to 47 minutes. This is made possible thanks to the additional Smart Flight Battery, which is an additional battery.
Availability and pricing
The DJI Mini 3 Pro is available for pre-order now from the manufacturer and most authorized retailers in a variety of configurations, and shipping will begin May 17th. Pricing in Swiss francs has not been announced, but prices in euros are already known: the DJI Mini 3 Pro (without remote control) costs 739 euros, the kit is available with the associated remote control (DJI RC-N1) for 829 euros and the kit is included Remote control with integrated touch screen (DJI RC) available from 999 euros. It lists the Digitec DJI 3 Mini Pro with the DJI RC-N1 for CHF899.
Speaking of drones: Empa researcher Mirko Kovac is developing drones for use in areas with complex environmental conditions. For this, he was recently awarded an “ERC Consolidated Grant” by the European Research Council.