Drone maker DJI today unveiled the "Mavic Air" at an event in New York City, stating that the new drone combines the "best features" of the Mavic series into an ultra-portable and foldable drone in line with last year's Spark model.

Mavic Air includes a 4K camera, QuickShot and SmartCapture modes for simpler photo and video capturing, and FlightAutonomy 2.0 with Advanced Pilot Assistance Systems to ensure safer flights. DJI called the Mavic Air "the most portable DJI drone ever created" at a weight of 430 grams, and it can fold its arms and propellers to sit flush against its frame, similar to the Spark.

DJI mavic air

“When DJI introduced the Mavic Pro, it reinvented what a consumer drone could be: powerful, yet portable, accessible, but advanced,” said Roger Luo, President at DJI. “Today, with the introduction of Mavic Air, we have pushed these attributes to the next level to create our best consumer drone yet.”

The drone's camera houses a 1/2.3" CMOS sensor and the equivalent of a 24mm F2.8 lens, connected to a recessed three-axis mechanical gimbal for steadier shots. The final images are said to result in 12-megapixel stills that use new HDR algorithms to "preserve more highlight and low light details."

In regards to panoramic shots, Mavic Pro can combine 25 still images to make one 32-megapixel panoramic image in under one minute. The drone also supports other panorama modes, including horizontal, vertical, and 180 degree images.

For video, Mavic Air shoots stabilized 4K video at 30 fps with a maximum bitrate of 100 Mbps, another best for DJI's family of drones according to the company. The drone can also shoot 1080p slow-motion video at 120 fps. To store all of this footage, Mavic Air includes 8 GB of onboard storage and a new USB-C port so exporting data is easier. There's also a micro SD card slot to further expand storage.

Taking a cue from Spark's easy-to-use features, Mavic Air enables image and video capture in user-friendly modes like QuickShot, which lines out predefined flight paths that keep subjects in frame. SmartCapture includes various hand gestures that activate Mavic Air and command it to take pictures, follow you, record a short clip, land, and more, all without a physical remote.

DJI mavic air flight
More detailed controls can be found on the included remote controller, however, which has detachable control sticks that can be stored inside the remote controller for added portability.

Users will be able to fly Mavic Air for up to 21 minutes at a maximum range of 2.5 miles, and it can fly standby in windy conditions of up to 22 mph. When in the air, FlightAutonomy 2.0 helps the drone navigate complex outdoor environments using seven onboard cameras and infrared sensors, and a Sport Mode boosts speeds up to 42 mph.

DJI will sell Mavic Air in Onyx Black, Arctic White, and Flame Red starting at $799, with a package that includes the drone, battery, remote controller, carrying case, two pairs of propeller guards, and four pairs of propellers. A Mavic Air Fly More Combo will also be for sale at $999 and includes the drone, three batteries, remote controller, travel bag, two pairs of propeller guards, six pairs of propellers, a battery to power bank adapter, and battery charging hub.

Those interested can pre-order Mavic Air on DJI's website today, and it will begin shipping in a few days on January 28.

Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with DJI. When you click the above link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running.

Tag: DJI

Top Rated Comments

wwooden Avatar
74 months ago
I love my Mavic Pro, it's great to see them expanding the family. The biggest thing is new people need to follow the FAA rules for flying. People doing stupid things is hurting the community.
Score: 5 Votes (Like | Disagree)
travoose Avatar
74 months ago
I’ve watched quite a few, more than I probably should’ve, of these clones and compared feature to feature to know what I’m getting into with a $60 investment.

If I find a solid deal on a spark I might just go that route although the amount I see being sold on Craigslist, etc. kind of makes me feel like the “fun” part gets old unless you’re into the video production side.
I just ordered the Air, as I wanted something with 4K and a bit more range. I will be looking to get rid of my Spark....lets talk.
Score: 3 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Mizouse Avatar
74 months ago
I'll be picking this up.

I wanted a Mavic Pro but it was still too big for me.

Was considering the Spark but the lack of folding arms and no 4K put me off on that one.
Score: 2 Votes (Like | Disagree)
CarlJames72 Avatar
74 months ago
Beware of DJI.... http://www.digitalmunition.com/WhyIWalkedFrom3k.pdf

Does anyone know of any good alternatives to DJI drones?
I would not even bother looking for a better all around drone. That is unless you want to spend a few thousand dollars. I have been up and down the drone ladder. Nanos to The Phantom. For what the Mavic does and for what the competition is offering, its hard to find a better option. There is that new one. Autel EVO. But that is not even on the market. It looks promising, but for sure there will be growing pains. I just got the Mavic within the last couple of months. If I based my purchase off peoples gripes, then I would not have purchased it. I honestly could not be any happier with this drone. You are going to waste a lot of money looking for it’s equal. Unfortunately, that’s the lesson I learned.
Score: 2 Votes (Like | Disagree)
fitshaced Avatar
74 months ago
I’ve watched quite a few, more than I probably should’ve, of these clones and compared feature to feature to know what I’m getting into with a $60 investment.

If I find a solid deal on a spark I might just go that route although the amount I see being sold on Craigslist, etc. kind of makes me feel like the “fun” part gets old unless you’re into the video production side.
I’d like to be able to use my Mavic more but because of where I live, it’s either a bit risky to fly it or I need to drive a good bit away before it’s legal. Not looking to do that every week. Anyway, I’ve enjoyed using it and appreciate the video I’ve been able to get off it. If you want one just for flying, just get a racing drone that can do flips and things and can probably go faster.
Score: 1 Votes (Like | Disagree)
travoose Avatar
74 months ago
have you had any issues with the wifi and the controller. This is the only thing holding me back as I live in NY/Long Island where i'm surrounded by shopping malls and houses
I have not had any issues...but I live in a more rural area.
Score: 1 Votes (Like | Disagree)

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