BONUS: Drone News | DJI Spark 2 in 2020?, DJI Spark 2 Specs, New FAA Drone Hobby Rules, Osmo Action Camera, US-China Trade Wars - a podcast by Drone U

Are the DJI Spark 2 Rumors True?

Our Biggest Drone News story this week is about the DJI Spark 2. Initially, we had reports that DJI will be coming out with a new and improved version of this much-loved drone. You can also check out our review of the original DJI Spark.



Drone enthusiasts who were disappointed to find last week that DJI Phantom 5 rumors were totally false were certainly heartened to hear these news. However, the latest developments suggest that plans to launch the DJI Spark 2 have been shelved.

DJI Spark 2 Release Date

The release date for the DJI Spark 2 has been already pushed back twice now. Initially we were expecting a summer 2019 release for the DJI Spark 2. We had also reported how DJI was planning on launching this drone at Grand Central Station, NYC.



However, citing a “shift in priorities”, company officials conveyed that the DJI Spark 2 had been indefinitely delayed.



As per the latest industry rumors, the DJI Mavic Mini which released on October 30th, has in fact, REPLACED the DJI Spark 2. You can check out our latest drone news show to get some exclusive updates on the Mavic Mini.



So, has the DJI Spark 2 been permanently shelved? Watch this space for updates!

Rumored DJI Spark 2 Specs

The new and improved Spark will allow you to shoot 4K video at 30fps. Moreover, according to industry rumors, the new Spark with come with an improved 3-axis gimbal, ActiveTrack 2.0 and 2x digital zoom. Other DJI Spark 2 Specs:

More Aerodynamic Design

Increased video bit rate

Increased Flight time of 18 minutes

Colors: Black and White

Panorama Mode

New Battery Design



Due to pricing pressures, the DJI Spark 2 is unlikely to come with Occusync 2.0. New battery design also means that you shall not be able to use your old Spark batteries in the new DJI Spark 2.

Should I Wait for the DJI Spark 2?

This is a question on everyone’s mind. Certainly, the DJI Spark 2 seems to be a drone to look forward to. But with the uncertainty surrounding its release, we recommend you settle for the DJI Mavic Mini.

FAA Introduces New Drone Rules for Recreational Pilots

In our next big drone news story, we reveal how the FAA has come out with new drone rules that majorly impact hobby pilots. Drone enthusiasts may recall how the 2018 FAA Reauthorization Act placed greater restrictions on hobby pilots. Now, as per the new drone rules, the FAA has made it mandatory for hobby pilots to go through the new LAANC system. However, with the new LAANC system yet not configured for hobby pilots and the FAA forbidding the ATC from accepting calls, are we setting the stage for non-compliance?

Introducing DJI's Osmo Action Camera

Our last big drone news story is about the new Osmo Action camera. After the DJI Phantom 5 rumors turned out to be false, DJI sprung a surprise by launching a camera instead of a drone. Pitted directly against the GoPro Hero 7 Black, this action camera comes with a front-facing LCD screen. Will this new Osmo Action camera find takers within the racing community? And, will this new DJI offering further compound GoPro's problems?



Other stories on today's drone news include counter drone technology and the effect of US-China trade wars on the drone market. Tune in now!



Make sure to get yourself the all-new Drone U landing pad!



Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/.



If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is to subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us real quick? While you're there, leave us a 5-star review, if you're inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.



Become a Drone U Member.



Looking for simple, fast, and transparent coverage that gives you peace of mind?

Further episodes of Ask Drone U

Further podcasts by Drone U

Website of Drone U