DJI's latest release, the Neo, has captured attention as an affordable, compact drone tailored for consumer use. While it is primarily designed for content creators and amateur flyers, its features may offer intriguing possibilities for enterprise applications.
What is DJI Neo?
The DJI Neo is a remarkably compact drone, fitting comfortably in the palm of your hand. Weighing only 135 grams, it is marketed as a palm-sized vlog drone that is both easy to launch and land from the user’s hand. With AI-driven flight modes, the Neo doubles as a sophisticated selfie camera, designed to capture high-definition 4K videos effortlessly while on the go.
Exploring Enterprise Potential
Though initially aimed at the consumer market, the Neo’s capabilities suggest potential value in various professional settings. Much like the DJI Avata has found its niche in public safety and law enforcement, the Neo could be adapted for enterprise use, offering a versatile and cost-effective solution.
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DJI Neo
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DJI Avata 2
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Dimensions
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130×157×48.5 mm
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180×180×80 mm
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Weight
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135 g
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410 g
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Flight Time
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Approx. 18 mins
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Approx. 18 mins
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Max Flight Distance
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7 km
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11 km
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Camera
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1/2-inch image sensor, 12MP, 4K
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1/1.7-inch CMOS, 12MP, 4K
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Wind Resistance
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8 m/s
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10 m/s
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With a price tag of $299 for the standard model and $529 for the Fly More Combo, the Neo is an economically accessible option. This affordability is particularly advantageous for high-risk scenarios where drone loss or damage is a possibility. Organisations can deploy Neo units with minimal financial risk, making it a practical choice for challenging missions.
DJI Neo: Key Features
Compact and Portable
The DJI Neo’s design epitomises portability, boasting a weight of just 135 grams and dimensions small enough to comfortably fit in the palm of your hand. This compact form factor makes the Neo exceptionally easy to carry, deploy, and manoeuvre, particularly in environments where space is at a premium. Whether you're navigating through tight indoor areas or need a drone that can be quickly stowed away between missions, the Neo’s portability ensures that it’s ready for action whenever and wherever needed.
Flight Time and Range
The DJI Neo offers an 18-minute flight time, which is comparable with the DJI Avata 2. Additionally, the Neo supports a transmission range of up to 7 kilometers, providing ample coverage for a wide array of applications. This impressive range ensures that operators can maintain a reliable connection and control over the drone, even when it's deployed at considerable distances from the controller.
Camera Quality
Equipped with a ½ inch image sensor, the DJI Neo excels in delivering high-resolution 4K video, making it a valuable tool for capturing detailed and clear visual data. The high-quality imaging capabilities ensure that every frame is crisp and vibrant, facilitating precise analysis and high-quality deliverables.
Accessory Compatibility
The DJI Neo is designed with versatility in mind, offering compatibility with a range of DJI accessories that enhance its functionality. It seamlessly integrates with DJI Goggles 3, providing an immersive first-person view (FPV) experience that is invaluable for tasks requiring precise navigation and control. The Neo is also compatible with the FPV Controller 3, which offers advanced control options and improved ergonomics. For additional flexibility, the Neo works with the DJI RC 2, and allows for customisable settings and intuitive operation. This accessory compatibility ensures that users can tailor the Neo to their specific operational needs and preferences, enhancing its effectiveness in various professional scenarios.
Enterprise Applications
Although the Neo is designed for consumer use, its small size and advanced features open up several potential enterprise applications:
Inspection of Confined Spaces
The Neo’s compact design and agility make it suitable for inspecting hard-to-reach areas that might be challenging for larger drones or human operators. This includes inspecting pipelines, HVAC systems, and other narrow spaces. While it may not offer the same imaging quality as specialised inspection drones, the Neo can still provide valuable visual data in constrained environments at a fraction of the cost.
Public Safety Operations
In the realm of public safety, where the DJI Avata 2 is already in use, the Neo could serve as a smaller, more manoeuvrable alternative. Its compact size and ability to navigate tight urban spaces could enhance its effectiveness in scenarios where larger drones are less practical. Neo could be especially useful in indoor clearance missions, often undertaken by emergency services such as fire rescue and police.
Search and Rescue
The Neo’s capability to navigate through debris and confined areas makes it a promising tool for search and rescue operations. It could serve as an initial responder, providing crucial situational information without exposing personnel to immediate danger. The affordable price also allows organisations to deploy multiple units, increasing the chances of a successful mission even if some drones are damaged or lost.
In Summary
While the DJI Neo is primarily designed for consumer markets, its unique features and affordability present valuable opportunities for enterprise applications. Its compact size, ease of use, and cost-effectiveness make it a compelling option for roles beyond casual use, including inspections, public safety, and search and rescue operations.
Where to buy DJI Neo in Australia?
The DJI Neo can be purchased from D1 Store - Australia’s First & Only DJI Authorised Retailer. Purchase in-store at one of many flagship locations around Australia or buy online for free shipping in Australia on orders over $199.