HoverAir has quietly unveiled two new models of its super-sized X1 drone: the aptly named X1 Pro and X1 Pro Max. From what we can see in this teaser, the two devices offer multiple software updates and design improvements. However, the scope of their updates differs between them.
Its appearance comes at an interesting time, as a recent leak revealed that rival DJI is about to launch its new Neo drone. The Neo is a lightweight machine seemingly aimed at beginners, while the HoverAir goes in the opposite direction, focusing more on power.
The X1 Pro houses a 1/2-inch CMOS sensor along with a 17mm wide-angle lens. Together, the camera can record 4K resolution video at 60 FPS or 1080p at 120 FPS. It’s also faster than the previous model, capable of auto-tracking speeds of up to 42 km/h (about 26 mph). DIY Photography, in its report, notes that this is a good speed for following users on their bike or jogging.
Introducing the HOVERAir X1 PROOmni-Terrain, which flies over water, snow, and cliffs and captures stunning low-light footage. Active Rear Collision Detection ensures worry-free tracking and zoomable shots. 42km/h tracking speed, 4K/60fps, Level 5 wind resistance – perfect for any adventure! pic.twitter.com/Ti0SCHES8XAugust 13, 2024
Hardware Updates
In terms of design, the drone is not as boxy as the older X1. It has a sleeker design, although it is larger, measuring 149 x 173 x 39 mm and weighing 192 grams. HoverAir, in addition to a bulkier body, gave the design active collision detectors on the back and, most importantly, the ability to fly over water, snow and on the edge of a cliff.
As TheVerge explains, one of the X1's problems is its VIO (Visual Inertial Odometry) system. It uses this technology to position itself above the ground, but the sensors have a hard time detecting “moving textures” such as rippling water. The drone could therefore fall out of the sky.
If you look closely at the top of the drone, you'll see a button above a screen. It's not known what it does, as the feature isn't recognized in the preview. Online speculation suggests it's for choosing unique flight paths.
8K recording
The X1 Pro Max shares many similarities with the Pro model, as it has the same dimensions, features, and a 16-minute flight time. There’s only one noticeable design difference that we can see in the images: the company logo is written in gold letters instead of silver. Most of the major changes are internal.
Thanks to its 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor and 16mm wide-angle lens, the Pro Max can shoot 8K video at 30 FPS, as well as 4K video at 60 FPS or 120 FPS for slow-motion content. Footage is saved in 10-bit HLG, which gives users “enough color information and detail to correct many issues” during editing. Additionally, it has a “vision-based” collision detection system and supports Wi-Fi 6.
That’s pretty much all the important information we can gather at this point. There’s still a lot we don’t know, like how much each model will cost, when they’ll be released, and what those blurry accessories on the HoverAir preview page are. If we had to take a wild guess about some of them, we’ll probably see carrying cases, spare batteries, and a charging dock.
We'll have to wait to find out more, and by the looks of it, it won't be long. While we have you, be sure to check out TechRadar's list of the best beginner drones of 2024.
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