DJI Matrice 400 Gains Delivery Mode in New Firmware

DJI has released a new firmware update for the Matrice 400, pushing the industrial drone deeper into logistics, inspection, and precision operations. The new Firmware version v16.01.08.06, released on January 19, 2026, introduces new task modes, sensor improvements, and a fix for a known battery issue, significantly expanding the aircraft’s operational range, as we can read on the DJI release notes.

Advanced Task Mode Expands Industrial Use

The headline feature of the update is the introduction of Advanced Task Mode, which adds three new mission types designed for specialized industrial workflows. These include Delivery Mode, Cleaning Task, and Close Range Task, each tailored to different operational environments where precision and stability are critical.

Delivery Mode positions the Matrice 400 as a viable drone logistics platform. DJI confirms support for a dedicated delivery box and a maximum payload capacity of 6 kilograms, opening the door to light cargo transport in industrial sites, campuses, and controlled airspace environments. DJI notes that operators interested in delivery applications should contact the company directly for detailed user guidance and design drawings for the delivery box.

With this move, the Matrice 400 appears to be eyeing the drone delivery space currently dominated by fixed wing platforms like Wing, whose aircraft have become familiar sights carrying Walmart orders.

The difference, of course, is that the Matrice 400 looks less like a friendly neighborhood courier and more like it could deliver your package and inspect the building while it is there.

The Cleaning Task and Close Range Task are aimed at operations near structures, infrastructure, and confined spaces, where precise control and stable positioning are essential. These modes reflect DJI’s continued focus on enabling drones to work closer to assets rather than simply around them.

LiDAR Enhancements and Positioning Improvements

Beyond new task modes, the firmware update brings notable improvements to existing sensor systems. DJI has added contamination detection support for LiDAR payloads, allowing operators to identify sensor degradation caused by dirt or environmental buildup. This enables better maintenance planning and helps preserve measurement accuracy over time.

Positioning performance has also been improved across all flight scenarios. DJI reports increased accuracy and stability, particularly in complex environments where GNSS signals are weak or visual positioning cues are limited. These improvements are especially relevant for industrial inspections, indoor adjacent operations, and infrastructure heavy locations.

For Cleaning Task and Close Range Task specifically, DJI has refined positioning behavior and adjusted operational parameters within T mode to enhance safety. These changes are intended to reduce drift and improve control during missions that bring the aircraft close to obstacles or surfaces.

Battery Fix Improves Operational Safety

The firmware update also addresses a known battery related issue affecting the Matrice 400. DJI has not detailed the exact nature of the problem, but confirms that the fix improves overall flight safety, an important consideration for operators conducting heavy payload or close proximity missions.

DJI recommends that Matrice 400 operators update to the latest firmware as soon as possible to benefit from the new capabilities and safety improvements.

DroneXL’s Take

DJI is clearly testing the edges of what an industrial multirotor can do. While the Matrice 400 is unlikely to start dropping off groceries in suburban driveways anytime soon, its new delivery mode does hint at a future where heavy duty multirotors begin encroaching on territory long held by fixed wing delivery drones.

Wing may still have the edge in efficiency and range, but the Matrice 400 brings something different to the table, the ability to hover, inspect, clean, and now deliver, all without changing platforms. It is less a pizza delivery drone and more a Swiss Army knife with propellers.

Photo credit: Gemini, DJI, Walmart.