DJI Mini 5 Pro Rumors Point to LiDAR and Enhanced Motors – Release Summer 2025?

A leaked image, from DJI leaker OsitaLV, suggests DJI may be pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the sub-250g drone category with its upcoming DJI Mini 5 (Pro), potentially featuring advanced LiDAR obstacle sensing and improved motor design. The information was reshared by reliable industry watcher Jasper Ellens, who shared details about the anticipated summer 2025 release and motors.

Advanced Sensing Capabilities

The leaked image reveals what appears to be a significant upgrade to the drone’s obstacle avoidance system. In between the traditional obstacle avoidance sensors, two additional distinct black sensors are visible, which industry experts believe to be LiDAR sensors. This would mark a significant advancement for the Mini series, potentially offering more precise obstacle detection and improved flight safety.

Engineering Challenges

Perhaps most intriguing is DJI’s apparent solution to the weight constraints that have long defined the Mini series. The addition of LiDAR technology and enhanced motors while maintaining the critical sub-250g weight limit (which exempts the drone from registration requirements in many jurisdictions) represents a significant engineering achievement.

The leaked photo shows evidence of vented motors, suggesting improved cooling and potentially better performance. This design change could allow for more powerful flight characteristics without compromising the drone’s lightweight status.

Market Context

This development comes at an interesting time for DJI’s consumer drone lineup. The company recently introduced the lightweight DJI Neo, and market watchers anticipate the launch of the DJI Flip, another compact drone aimed at the consumer market. These moves suggest a comprehensive strategy to dominate the lightweight drone segment across multiple price points and use cases.

Industry Implications

If confirmed, these features would represent a significant leap forward in lightweight drone capabilities. The integration of LiDAR technology in a sub-250g platform could set new standards for obstacle avoidance in compact drones, potentially influencing the entire industry’s approach to small-form-factor UAV design.

However, until official confirmation from DJI, these details should be treated as preliminary. The summer 2025 release timeline suggested by Jasper Ellens allows for potential refinements or changes to the final design.