No strangers to innovation and pushing technology to the limit, DJI just took things to the next level with the uber futuristic INSPIRE 1, the World’s 1st 4K ready-to-fly platform that virtually anyone can operate. Sporting a slick and innovative design allowing for an obstruction-free 360 degree camera movement, the Inspire 1 looks more like a drone from Robocop than something very real.
Every since the release of their Phantom and subsequent Phantom 2 and Vision +, DJI has seen their aerial technology find a place way beyond the realms of photography and filmmaking. Their aerial systems have aided firefighters fight fires, archeologists explore ancient cultures, explore uninhabitable regions such as Chernobyl, and even help children with autism.
The Inspire 1 features a groundbreaking 12MP 4K camera capable of recording at 24/25/30fps, integrated 3-axis gimbal stabilisation, as well as a 94 degree field of view lens for distortion-free images and video. In addition, built-in wireless HD video transmitter is present, as well as stabilization indoors without GPS. A dual controller support is available for a camera dedicated operator.
Utilising Lightbridge technology in their HD transmitter, the Inspire 1 is capable of transmitting live 720p HD video live at a distance of up to 1.7km or 1 mile.
DJI Inspire 1 Features:
- 12MP 4K camera – 4K video at 24/25/30p & CinemaDNG Raw stills
- Full HD 1080p at 24/25/30/50/60fps
- Midair transformation for obstruction-free 360 degree camera movement
- Lightbridge HD wireless transmitter
- 720p HD live feed up to 1 mile/1.7km
- Dual operator control
- Gimbal and camera settings control integrated into the remote controller
- 94-degree field of view camera limits lens distortion
- Lens allows for addition of ND and polarizer filters
- Larger, more versatile sensor which allows for better low light performance
- Improved motors, propeller design, flight controller and electronic speed controllers (ESC) to provide more finely tuned flight controls.
Check out the Inspire 1 Announcement video “Soar” below:
And here’s Philip Bloom introducing the new DJI Inspire 1:
Inspire 1 – “Vintage” Promo demonstrates the features of the Inspire 1:
In addition to the Inspire 1, DJI also announced a Software Development Kit (SDK) for their Phantom range allowing app developers to create their own apps and unleash your creativity.
The DJI Inspire 1 with 4K camera and 3-axis gimbal is on pre-order from B&H at $2,899 and is expected to be available from December 1st, 2014.
PRESS RELEASE
SAN FRANCISCO, Nov. 13, 2014 – DJI, a global leader in aerial photography and cinematography platforms, today announced the release of the DJI Inspire 1, the world’s first flying 4K camera that offers midair transformation as well as a built-in wireless HD video transmitter, stabilization indoors without GPS and more camera control than ever.
This tool bridges DJI’s consumer and professional products that are the aerial platforms of choice for professional photographers and cinematographers worldwide.
“We see this as the perfect combination of the Phantom and Spreading Wings series, being able to take off at the touch of a button while simultaneously giving users fine control of the images they capture,” said Frank Wang, DJI’s CEO.
In addition to incorporating a groundbreaking 4K aerial camera, the Inspire 1 camera maintains stability even in strong wind conditions via an integrated 3-axis gimbal.
The Inspire 1 integrates DJI’s patented wireless HD transmitter, Lightbridge, and comes with a fully redesigned mobile app that runs across both iOS and Android devices, broadcasting 1080p video at a distance of 1.7km.
“The Inspire 1 is truly a first-of-its-kind product that we see easily fitting into the toolbox of professionals across a variety of industries while still being to capture outstanding images for creative and hobby use,” said Eric Cheng, Director of Aerial Imaging.
With the touch of a button, the Inspire 1 takes off and will transform itself into a “V” position, allowing pilots to capture images from any angle. Similarly, the revamped “dynamic home point” function enables pilots to ensure their unit always knows where they are and can return to them safely.
During flight, the platform stabilizes itself using a downward facing “Optical Flow” camera that uses a stereoscopic image of the ground to ensure it does not drift, even when flying indoors or without GPS.
The DJI Inspire 1 also comes with a brand new 6-cell battery, enabling it to spend up to 18 minutes in the air. Pilots will be able to monitor each cell’s strength through the app to ensure safe flight, in addition to DJI’s signature automatic landing function in the case of low battery.
Additional features include:
- Dual operator control
- Gimbal and camera settings control integrated into the remote controller
- 94-degree field of view camera limits lens distortion
- Larger, more versatile sensor which allows for better low light performance
- Improved motors, propeller design, flight controller and electronic speed controllers (ESC) to provide more finely tuned flight controls.
“DJI will continue to find new ways to empower creators to achieve their vision like never before,” said Mr. Wang.
The DJI Inspire 1 is available for pre-order through the DJI website and from authorized dealers worldwide for an MSRP to be confirmed on launch day. Learn more about the Inspire 1 by visiting www.DJI.com/inspire1
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