DJI is redefining immersive aerial videography with the launch of the Avata 360, a new 360° drone capable of capturing stunning 8K footage. The drone, announced today, combines the creative freedom of a 360 camera with the dynamic flight experience of First-Person View (FPV) technology, opening up new possibilities for content creators and aerial enthusiasts. This isn’t simply an upgrade; it’s a reimagining of how we capture and experience flight, offering a single-take solution for complex cinematic shots.
The Avata 360 builds upon the popular Avata series, integrating a 1-inch sensor for exceptional image quality and DJI’s advanced O4+ video transmission system for a stable and reliable connection. But the key differentiator is its ability to record full 360° video in 8K at 60 frames per second, and capture 120MP panoramic photos. This allows filmmakers to reframe shots in post-production, effectively turning one flight into a multitude of creative options. The drone’s features are geared towards both seasoned FPV pilots and newcomers looking to explore aerial filmmaking.
DJI’s commitment to safety is also evident in the Avata 360’s design. The drone incorporates omnidirectional obstacle sensing, even in low-light conditions, and features integrated propeller guards. These features, combined with the O4+ transmission system’s extended range of up to 20 km (approximately 12.4 miles), aim to provide a more confident and immersive flying experience. The Avata 360 also boasts up to 23 minutes of flight time on a single charge, allowing for extended creative sessions.
Unlocking Creative Potential with 8K 360° Capture
At the heart of the Avata 360 lies its imaging capabilities. The drone utilizes two interchangeable lenses, with the 360° lens employing 1-inch-equivalent sensors to deliver exceptionally detailed 8K/60fps HDR video and 120MP photos. The large 2.4µm pixels and high dynamic range ensure that both highlights and shadows are captured with clarity, even in challenging lighting conditions. DJI emphasizes the ease with which creators can export and reframe this footage in post-production, transforming a single flight into a variety of perspectives.
Beyond the 360° lens, the Avata 360 also offers a Single Lens mode, allowing users to capture footage in the classic Avata style at 4K/60fps. This versatility caters to a wider range of filming needs, from immersive 360° experiences to traditional aerial cinematography. The ability to switch between lenses seamlessly expands the drone’s creative applications.
Advanced Flight Technology for Immersive Experiences
The Avata 360 leverages DJI’s O4+ video transmission system, designed to deliver a stable and clear live feed for smoother, more immersive flights. This system boasts strong anti-interference capabilities, supporting high-definition, high-frame-rate transmission at 1080p/60fps over a significant distance. Pilots can choose to fly using DJI goggles and motion controllers for a fully immersive FPV experience, or utilize traditional DJI remote controllers for precise camera movement and control.
For those new to FPV flying, the Avata 360 offers features like the RC Motion 3, which allows for intuitive aerial acrobatics, even for beginners. The drone also supports intelligent tracking modes, including ActiveTrack 360°, which automatically selects the optimal tracking mode based on the subject’s movement. These features aim to make FPV flying more accessible and enjoyable for pilots of all skill levels.
Intelligent Editing Tools Streamline Workflow
DJI has integrated several intelligent editing tools into the DJI Fly and DJI Studio apps to streamline the post-production process. GyroFrame allows users to quickly adjust the angle of 360° footage within the DJI Fly app, while both apps offer tools for adding camera movement effects. The Virtual Gimbal feature enables infinite rotation and tilt, allowing for dynamic camera moves even when flying in a straight line. Spotlight Free and ActiveTrack 360° further simplify complex shots, automatically locking onto and tracking subjects with precision.
A particularly useful feature is the replaceable front lens element. Should the lens become damaged, users can purchase a replacement kit and easily replace it themselves, avoiding the need to send the drone in for repair. The Avata 360 also includes 42GB of internal storage, enough for approximately 30 minutes of 8K 360° video, and supports high-speed transfers via Wi-Fi 6, allowing for 1GB of footage to be transferred to the DJI Fly app in as little as 10 seconds.
Pricing and Availability
The DJI Avata 360 is available for pre-order starting today through store.dji.com and authorized retailers. Shipping is expected to begin in April 2026. Pricing varies depending on the configuration:
- DJI Avata 360 (Drone Only): £409
- DJI Avata 360 (DJI RC 2): £639
- DJI Avata 360 Fly More Combo (DJI RC 2): £829
- DJI Avata 360 Motion Fly More Combo: £829
DJI Care Refresh, a comprehensive protection plan covering accidental damage, including flyaway and collisions, is also available for the Avata 360. Plans are available for one or two years, offering up to two or four replacements, respectively.
The Avata 360 represents a significant step forward in 360° aerial videography, offering a compelling combination of image quality, flight performance, and intelligent features. As DJI continues to refine its drone technology, we can expect even more innovative solutions for content creators and aerial enthusiasts. The next step for DJI will be showcasing real-world footage captured with the Avata 360 and demonstrating the full potential of its intelligent editing tools.
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