Welcome to your weekly UAS news update. We have three stories for you this week. First, Insta360 is entering the drone market. Next, the DJI Neo 2 has appeared in FCC filings. Finally, DroneUp’s CEO is advocating for digital airspace authorizations. Let’s dive in.
Insta360’s Drone Venture
DJI may face serious competition from Insta360, known for its 360-degree cameras. The company has launched a new drone brand called Anti-Gravity. Their first drone, reportedly the world’s first 360-degree drone weighing under 249 grams, can shoot in 8K quality. Anti-Gravity emphasizes an immersive flight experience, making storytelling accessible for beginners and experts alike. The drone includes smart safety features, such as payload detection to prevent misuse and modifications. While the exact meaning of this feature is unclear, more details will likely emerge. The official unveiling is scheduled for August 2025. Other companies, like GoPro and Skydio, have struggled to challenge DJI’s dominance, so it will be interesting to see if Insta360’s approach succeeds. Coincidentally, DJI is rumored just launched its own 360-degree camera, suggesting a clash of territories.
DJI Neo 2 FCC Filing
The second version of DJI’s Neo, the Neo 2, has surfaced on the FCC website, a key step before U.S. market entry. The filing reveals a 166 mAh battery, a 12% increase from the original Neo, which should extend flight time beyond the original’s 18 minutes, assuming similar weight. However, FCC approval does not guarantee U.S. availability. Since October 2024, U.S. Customs has detained some DJI shipments, citing the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act. DJI denies any connection to forced labor, but this issue has already delayed products like the Mavic 4 Pro and likely the Mini 5. The Neo 2’s U.S. market future remains uncertain.
DroneUp’s Push for Digital Airspace Authorizations
Tom Walker, CEO of DroneUp, published an opinion piece in Fox News highlighting a dangerous incident during the Texas floods, which we previously covered. He also testified alongside AUVSI at a hearing, pushing for improved airspace safety.
Walker described a private drone colliding with a rescue helicopter, forcing it to land and grounding a critical asset during a life-or-death situation. However, reports suggest the drone may have belonged to a government agency, a detail Walker omitted. He cited FAA data showing a 25% increase in illegal drone incursions near U.S. airports in Q1 2025 compared to 2024, calling current detection and response systems “fractured, outdated, and dangerously inadequate.”
Walker proposes a unified real-time tracking system for low-altitude air traffic, secure digital credentials linking drones to pilots, and expanded authority for local law enforcement to counter drone threats. The technology exists, he argues, but urgent action is needed to prevent a national tragedy.
Notably, DroneUp acquired AirMap, a controversial provider that once pushed for paid airspace access, leading to its industry backlash. DroneUp later discontinued AirMap. Given DroneUp’s struggles to fulfill Walmart’s drone delivery promises, repositioning to offer airspace access solutions isn’t surprising.
At Pilot Institute, we oppose any technology that charges for routine access to the National Airspace System by small service providers or recreational users. Access must remain free, a stance we’ve held since the AirMap days and will maintain. We’ll keep monitoring and updating you on developments.
Additional Notes
We recently returned from a 10-day trip to Oshkosh, Wisconsin, where we met many students, discussed our products, and connected with flight schools and instructors. Hearing how you use our products—sometimes in unexpected ways—was inspiring. This week on Postflight, our premium community show, we’ll discuss the SkyRover X1 and how drones are being used to release mosquitoes in Hawaii. Yes, release, not destroy—it’s a fascinating story. Join us Monday for the live Postflight in the community. In the meantime, fly safe!
