David Bridges
The DJI Neo drone showcases impressive capabilities despite its compact size, but it previously faced challenges that hindered its performance, specifically the absence of vertical video support and relatively limited flying speeds in tracking mode. Fortunately, DJI has rolled out a substantial firmware update that effectively addresses these concerns, enhancing the drone’s functionality by adding vertical video capability and boosting its tracking speeds. This update not only elevates the overall user experience but also positions the Neo as a more competitive option for content creators who rely on versatile filming options.
For creators, the inability to shoot vertical video was a significant drawback, especially given the increasing demand for content tailored for social media platforms. The latest update allows the Neo to capture vertical video at 1080p 60 fps in a 9:16 aspect ratio, although it does not yet support 4K resolution. This limitation arises because the camera gimbal does not rotate 90 degrees like that of the Mini 4 Pro; instead, it captures 4K footage in a horizontal format and crops the sides to fit the vertical frame. As more users turn to mobile platforms for video sharing, this enhancement will undoubtedly appeal to a broader audience.
The firmware update has significantly improved the Neo’s speed capabilities, allowing it to reach a maximum of 20 mph in tracking mode, an increase from the previous 12 mph. Impressively, this new speed surpasses the 18 mph limit found in sport mode. However, it still falls short of the full manual mode’s maximum speed of 36 mph, which requires the use of the FPV remote controller 3. The updated speed makes the Neo more adept at tracking slower-moving subjects, such as bicycles, enhancing its appeal for outdoor enthusiasts and those capturing dynamic sports footage.
In addition to these key features, the update introduces support for Goggles N3, enabling live view stabilization when using either Goggles N3 or Goggles 3, alongside improved noise reduction capabilities with the Mic 2. Unfortunately, there remains the persistent issue of propeller noise, which DJI has not yet managed to mitigate effectively. To benefit from these enhancements, users are required to connect their Neo to the DJI Fly app available on both Android and iOS platforms, ensuring that both the drone and the app are updated to the latest versions.
Daniel Mercer
