DJI is reportedly preparing to release its first 360-degree consumer drone, the Avata 360, before the end of the year as the company faces a potential U.S. sales restriction on new products. Industry watchers say DJI plans to position the device as a direct rival to Insta360’s upcoming Antigravity A1.
Documents filed with the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) earlier this week revealed initial certification for the Avata 360, signaling that the drone is cleared for release in the U.S. market. The approval must be utilized before Dec. 23, after which DJI could be barred from selling new models unless a “last-minute US security audit,” described by reports as unlikely, changes the outlook. According to DroneXL, “The Avata 360 is expected to launch before the deadline,” with the company also planning a similar timeline for its Osmo Pocket 4.
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Pricing details have also emerged, with reports suggesting DJI intends to match or undercut Insta360’s Antigravity A1, which is rumored to start at around US$999. The Avata 360 may debut at a similar price for its base version, representing an increase of roughly 8% over the standard Avata 2, currently listed at about US$849.
The anticipated price bump is linked to upgraded hardware, including two 1/1.1-inch camera sensors and a rotating housing capable of moving 90 degrees to capture true first-person-view (FPV) footage. Industry sources say the design is intended to combine immersive FPV capabilities with fully spherical 360° capture.
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With rising geopolitical scrutiny and pressure from U.S. lawmakers, the potential introduction of the Avata 360 marks what could be DJI’s final major consumer release before new restrictions come into force.
Source: DroneXL