| Image: DJI |
DJI has announced a new iteration of its tiny, beginner-friendly camera drone. The DJI Neo 2 introduces several changes designed to make the drone easier and safer to fly, such as obstacle sensing, a new display, and better wind resistance. DJI also gave a boost to the video specs, promising higher-quality footage from the palm-sized device.
DJI’s Neo drone is the company’s entry-level offering meant for true beginners. However, the original had a tendency to run into obstacles mid-flight, since it could only collect data about what was beneath it, rather than around it. The Neo 2, however, aims to make controlling the drone less stressful, as it can now sense obstacles in any direction, thanks to its “monocular vision system,” forward-facing LiDAR and downward-firing infrared sensors. As a result, it’s able to sense obstacles in real time to avoid collisions.
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| The Neo 2 still supports gesture control, or it can be controlled via the DJI smartphone app or compatible DJI controllers. Image: DJI |
Another improvement that enables easier drone control comes from improved handling in windy conditions. The original Neo could withstand moderate breezes of 20–28 kph (13-18 mph) while the Neo 2 can handle winds of 29–38 kph (19-24 mph). It should be more stable in open environments, even with some gusty wind, as a result.
The Neo 2 keeps the 12MP Type 1/2 (30.7 mm²) sensor found in its predecessor, but the camera sees other improvements. It’s now capable of 4K 100fps recording, up from 4K 30fps. Vertical recording is upgraded to 2.7K (compared to 1080p on the Neo). DJI also increased the aperture of the lens from F2.8 to F2.2.
DJI added a new two-axis gimbal on the Neo 2, which should provide better stabilization over the first version’s single-axis gimbal. Additionally, DJI says it improved tracking performance with the new drone, enabling faster response time and better stability at speeds of up to 12 meters per second.
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| The Neo 2 features a small screen that displays the shooting mode. Image: DJI |
The Neo 2 now features a small display on the front near the camera, which shows the current shooting mode to make operation easier when you’re using the gesture and / or voice control modes without a controller. DJI has also increased the onboard storage from 22GB to 49GB. All of the new features and hardware changes come with some added weight, of course. The Neo 2 weighs 151g (5.3 oz), which is slightly more than its predecessor.
The Neo 2 keeps other useful beginner tools, such as a selection of “Quick Shot” presets that carry out a pre-programmed move and quick launch tools. It can also be paired with the DJI RC-N3 remote and used with the company’s FPV goggles and motion controller for a more immersive experience.
US customers are, once again, out of luck. As with all other DJI releases this year, the Neo 2 will not be officially available in the US thanks to a looming DJI ban. For those outside of the US, the Neo 2 is available beginning today at a starting price of €239/£209 for the drone only.
DJI Launches Neo 2: Follow-Me Camera Drone Returns Safer with More Creative Ways to Fly
Omnidirectional Obstacle Sensing, Palm Take-off & Landing and Gesture Control combine for the ultimate beginner drone
13th November, 2025 – DJI, the global leader in civilian drones and creative camera technology, today launches the Neo 2. At just 151g1, Neo 2 is DJI’s lightest and most compact drone1 equipped with omnidirectional obstacle sensing1 to date. It features gesture control1, allowing complete operation by hand, SelfieShot for capturing moments with minimum effort and improved ActiveTrack1 to make low-altitude, follow-shooting during activities such as running or cycling even easier. Easy to fly for beginners, Neo 2 is ideal for family outings, outdoor sports, travel and FPV experience, always capturing best moments as a personal follow-me camera drone.
Master Content Capture in a Couple of Clicks
The Neo 2 features a new small onboard display to the left of the camera when facing the drone, which clearly shows the selected shooting mode. The drone can be launched from the palm1 by the user pointing it at themselves and pressing the take-off button. After completing the desired content capture, the innovative Return-to-Palm feature1 allows Neo 2 to precisely locate the user’s palm, return safely and land steadily, making flights easier than ever.
Gesture Control and Multiple Ways to Fly
When using Gesture Control, its direction and proximity can be controlled by using one palm or both. With a single palm, the drone’s left/right movement and altitude can be controlled; users just need to face the drone and raise hand with the palm directed toward the drone. With both palms facing the drone, users can move the hands apart to make the drone fly away, while bringing the hands together to make it approach. No remote controller is needed for camera angle adjustment.
The Neo 2 also supports voice control1, allowing flying commands to be sent by smartphone or Bluetooth headphones during any sporting or other activity. For those looking for a longer transmission range, Neo 2 can be paired with the DJI RC-N3 remote controller to achieve a maximum video transmission distance of 10 km1.
Whether the user is using the drone without a remote controller1 or is pairing the drone with a motion controller1 and goggles for an exciting FPV1 (first-person view) immersive experience, there are multiple ways to control Neo 2.
Smart Capture, Sharp Results
Neo 2 features a 12MP, 1/2-inch CMOS sensor with an f/2.2 aperture and high-performance image processor for clearer, low-noise footage stabilized by a new 2-axis gimbal. When combined with DJI’s signature ActiveTrack and new SelfieShot, subjects are automatically framed for smooth, hands-free shooting from start to finish. With multiple intelligent shooting modes unlocking fresh perspectives and with 4K video recording1 at up to 100fps1 for slow motion1 or 2.7K vertical video, Neo 2 delivers crisp, detailed and cinematic-quality footage.
The Neo 2’s enhanced tracking performance offers faster response and improved stability, enabling smooth and steady tracking for running, cycling and more. In open areas, it can track at speeds of up to 12 m/s1. Eight-direction tracking (forward, backward, left, right and four diagonals) produces more natural follow shots and expands creative possibilities. In complex environments, the drone can switch to rear tracking mode, steadily keeping the subject in focus and providing confident creative freedom.
When it comes to capturing solo or group moments hands-free, Neo 2’s new SelfieShot allows the user to effortlessly switch between waist-up, full-body and long shots without a tripod or any extra assistance. Whether it’s birthday parties, weekend picnics or family outings, Neo 2 automatically composes every scene and maneuvers the camera as needed to capture cherished moments with just a tap.
Intelligent Shooting Modes, Stunning Shots
Neo 2 supports intelligent shooting modes, such as Dolly Zoom, QuickShots and MasterShots, offering diverse perspectives and making standout footage simple to create.
Dolly Zoom: Supports Hitchcock effect and enables users to create stunning videos for social media.
QuickShots: DJI’s signature QuickShots includes Dronie, Circle, Rocket, Spotlight, Helix and Boomerang, allowing captivating cycling, skateboarding or any other activity follow shots to be created with ease.
MasterShots: Automatically captures diverse shots with creative camera movements, and intelligently edits with music to produce high-quality videos.
Triple Protection for Beginner Confidence
The Neo 2’s omnidirectional monocular vision system, combined with forward-facing LiDAR and a downward infrared sensing system, detects obstacles in real time for safe, confident flying. Coupled with an integrated propeller guard design, which provides all-around protection, beginners are given peace of mind when operating the drone. Furthermore, Neo 2 supports versatile flight1 with enhanced hovering and positioning capabilities over Neo, making it easier to navigate challenging environments such as indoor, close to buildings and over water or snow.
Create with Ease and Efficiency
With level 5 wind resistance, up to 19 minute1 flight time and 49GB internal storage, Neo 2 can save up to 105 minutes of 4K/60fps video, up to 175 minutes of 4K/30fps video or 241 minutes of 1080p/60fps video. Once saved, no extra data cables are needed to transfer the footage; connecting to a phone by Wi-Fi will quickly transfer it to the DJI Fly App at up to 80 MB/s1 enabling smooth post production and sharing.
1For more information, please refer to https://www.dji.com/neo2. All data was measured using a production model of DJI Neo 2 in a controlled environment, actual experience may vary.