Leaked Image Hints at DJI Mavic 4 Pro with Revolutionary Camera Design

A new image leaked by drone insiders Jasper Ellens, OsitaLV and Igor Bogdanov on X has set the drone community abuzz, hinting at the possible design of the upcoming DJI Mavic 4 Pro. The photo appears to show a comparison test setup.

A Glimpse of the Future?

The image showcases what looks like a ‘sophisticated’ testing rig with gaffer tape. At its heart is a Sony camera – likely an A7IV – alongside what appears to be a LUMIX S5II, and a DJI Mavic 3 Pro. But what’s really catching everyone’s eye is the unusual device mounted above them.

This mysterious gadget, thought to be the DJI Mavic 4 Pro, is positioned upside down and seems to be held in place with tape. It’s sporting what looks like a redesigned camera housing and gimbal structure, distinctly different from its predecessor, the Mavic 3 Pro.

Pushing the Boundaries of Drone Photography

One of the most intriguing aspects of this potential Mavic 4 Pro is its rumored 90-degree upward tilt capability. If true, this would be a game-changer for aerial photographers and videographers, offering unprecedented flexibility in shot composition and particularly useful for inspections.

It is worth pointing out that not only the gimbal and camera feature a very different design. The entire front of the rumored DJI Mavic 4 Pro is different. For instance, seemingly missing are the forward facing obstacle avoidance sensors. Or at least they are not visible in this photo. Also the circular body of the drone behind the gimbal is very different from what we have seen in previous DJI Mavic drones.

What’s Next for DJI?

While the image doesn’t reveal any specific camera specs, it’s clear that DJI is working on something big. The current Mavic 3 Pro boasts a main Four Thirds 20MP Hasselblad camera plus two telephoto cameras. It’s anyone’s guess what upgrades the Mavic 4 Pro might bring to the table.

As for a release date, rumors suggest we might see the DJI Mavic 4 Pro sometime in 2024, although we would not be surprised if DJI will make us wait until 2025. With DJI already having launched the compact DJI Neo and the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro this year, it’s shaping up to be an exciting time for drone enthusiasts.

DroneXL’s Take

This leaked image of the potential DJI Mavic 4 Pro is exciting news for the drone industry. If the rumored 90-degree tilt feature is true, it could revolutionize aerial photography and videography. This aligns with the trend we’ve seen in recent drone developments, where manufacturers are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with airborne cameras.

The comparison setup with professional full-frame cameras also suggests that DJI is aiming to close the gap between drone-mounted and traditional cameras. This could lead to drones being used in even more professional photography and cinematography contexts.

What do you think about these potential new features for the DJI Mavic 4 Pro? Leave your thoughts in the comments below!​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​