We’ve recently finished testing the DJI Air 3 controller, but it appears that DJI is already working on its next release, as indicated by the leaked image of the DJI Mini 4 Pro shared by well-known DJI leaker @Quadro_News on Twitter. This new model seems to be a follow-up to the DJI Mini 3 Pro from last year, which we consider one of the top drones on the market.
Although no specific specifications have been leaked alongside the image, we can make some informed assumptions based on its appearance. The most noticeable improvement is likely to be an omnidirectional obstacle-sensing system, similar to what was introduced in the Air 3. This can be inferred from the adjusted fisheye sensors positioned above the camera and gimbal. These sensors now face outwards to the sides instead of directly ahead, a departure from the setup on the Mini 3 Pro.
While other enhancements are less clear from the leaked image, it seems that the Mini 4 Pro might still feature only one camera. The Air 3 made a significant upgrade by introducing a dual-camera system, one of which offered 3x optical zoom.
Upon closer examination of the leaked image of the supposed Mini 4 Pro, it appears that there is only one camera, likely based on the same 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor found in both the Mini 3 Pro and Air 3. This decision might have been made to keep the weight down. The Mini series is popular for being under 250 grams, allowing greater flexibility for flyers in various regions, such as needing only an Operator ID instead of a Flyer ID in the UK.
Another probable feature in the Mini 4 Pro is OcuSync 4.0, the latest iteration of DJI’s digital transmission system connecting drones to their controllers. This version enhances signal reliability and extends the range to 20km (12 miles), although legal restrictions in most regions limit the practical use of such a range.
This development suggests that DJI might pair the Mini 4 Pro with the new DJI RC 2 controller, a feature that also accompanied the Air 3. Although the leaked image implies a minor upgrade, the Mini 4 Pro will likely incorporate most of the quality-of-life improvements seen in the recent all-rounder model, albeit in a more compact package. This could make it another fantastic travel companion.
Considering that the DJI Mini 3 Pro was released in May 2022, it’s just over a year old. Would DJI really introduce a successor this soon? Given DJI’s recent pattern of releases, it seems quite plausible. As an owner of the Mini 3 Pro, I wouldn’t be too bothered about upgrading if this were to be the case.
Based on the leaks, the Mini 4 Pro seems to be a modest upgrade, possibly aligning it with the Air 3 in terms of its controller and connectivity. If the Mini 4 Pro boasts an omnidirectional obstacle-sensing system, OcuSync 4.0, and the new RC 2 controller, it would be a sensible update, especially anticipating the upcoming shopping season.
DJI has started to create sub-categories within its models, so we might expect to see a more affordable DJI Mini 4 (perhaps in 2024) accompanied by the new DJI RC-N2 controller. This controller comes with an improved processor, enhanced antennas, and support for OcuSync 4.0.
