At CES 2019, DJI releases a smart controller for the Mavic 2 series (Pro, Zoom, Enterprise). But it costs $650. Not cheap. Here are some of the specs listed from DJI:
- 5.5-inch 1080p
- OcuSync 2.0
- -20℃ to 40℃
- Customized Android system
- DJI Go Share
- Supports Third-party Apps
DJI says its 1080p 5.5″ screen is “ultra bright”, at 1000 cd/m² makes it easier to use under direct sunlight.
The Smart Controller also features OcuSync 2.0 which means that there will be automatic switching between 2.4 GHz and 5.8 GHz transmission. DJI claims reliable transmission of up to 8km. Wow. Oh and the controller also supports 4K 60 Hz HDMI output.
Setup time to connect with your Mavic 2 drone is estimated to be around 30 seconds, which DJI believes to be 3x faster than connecting your phone to the app then to the drone.
Having a dedicated controller means that you can eliminate the extra step of charging both your phone and the controller (but I mean you would still charge your phone no matter what right?). DJI claims you can get a full charge on the 5000mAh battery in just 2 hours, which you can use it for 2.5 hours. The Smart Controller is built to withstand extreme temperatures ranging from -20℃ to 40℃. This is a great since most phones’ battery start to die super fast in sub-zero temperatures.
The controller itself is an Andriod device, so it supports many third-party apps. Hence, the DJI apps such as the DJI Go 4 will run directly from the controller.
But at $650, this controller is an expensive accessory and is probably not for everyone. I mean for this price you can buy an Osmo Pocket or a Spark with money left. But if you can afford it, why not?