CES 2018: DJI Announces Osmo Mobile 2 With Simpler Controls and Improved Battery Life

Camera and drone maker DJI today announced two new camera stabilizers ahead of the first official day of CES 2018, which begins tomorrow, January 9. DJI's reveal centered upon the Osmo Mobile 2 and Ronin-S, a pair of stabilizers made for smartphones and DSLRs, respectively, that allow users to take videos without having to worry about shaky cam disrupting the footage.

The Osmo Mobile 2 is the newest model in DJI's line of camera stabilizers for smartphones, introducing simpler controls with cinematic zoom and a longer battery life. Like the previous device, the Osmo Mobile 2 is compatible with iPhone and includes three-axis gimbal technology to cancel out movement in three directions, allowing footage to remain steady even when the user's hands shake.

The gimbal technology combines with DJI's SmoothTrack technology to detect and compensate for the user's movement of the camera and "ensure a smooth cinematic shot every time." Users can shoot in both landscape and portrait orientation, and a 1/4" universal screw mount makes the Osmo Mobile 2 compatible with most photography accessories.

"With the introduction of these two stabilizers, DJI now offers gimbal technology to help unlock the creative storyteller in everyone no matter what camera they're using," said Paul Pan, Senior Product Manager at DJI. "Osmo Mobile 2 offers the best in smartphone stabilization at an affordable price, and Ronin-S brings the quality of DJI's professional gimbal technology to a new form factor that is perfect for run-and-gun filming using your favorite DSLR or mirrorless camera system."

In terms of the major new additions, DJI said the new device's battery system is "more powerful" than its predecessor and allows for filming for up to 15 hours, which is three times longer than the original. There's also a new USB port to enable smartphone charging while the Osmo Mobile 2 is being used, and even lets the Osmo act as a power bank for charging other devices when not in use.

DJI said the "simpler controls" include ways for users to use their smartphone's camera similar to a professional camera, thanks to integrated settings for ISO, shutter speed, and more. A new button for a zoom slider on the Osmo Mobile 2's handle lets users operate their smartphone camera without needing to touch the screen, and the controls also allow for the production of a dolly zoom, which DJI said is "a visual effect usually created only on professional film sets."

The Osmo Mobile 2 will cost $209 AUD (about $163 USD) and will launch exclusively on Apple.com, with pre-orders beginning January 23. In early February, the new Osmo will then debut on DJI's own website, as well as in DJI stores and authorized resellers. Later in February the device will be available to purchase in Apple's retail stores too. The Ronin-S will launch in Q2 2018.