Shop DJI Neo on Amazon - Act swiftly, as it might soon unavailable
The DJI Neo 2, an upgraded version of the original Neo, has recently passed the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approval, a significant step towards meeting US spectrum regulations. However, the drone's availability for purchase in the US remains uncertain due to ongoing regulatory and import restrictions linked to national security concerns.
The Neo 2, with its improved battery capacity and features tailored to a lightweight, registration-exempt category, is particularly appealing to vloggers and travelers. DJI plans to release the Neo 2 initially as a Wi-Fi only drone in the US to bypass some regulatory hurdles, but the range limitation of Wi-Fi may affect its appeal.
Despite this FCC approval and product updates, ongoing national security investigations and import restrictions under Section 232 could lead to an effective ban on DJI drones in the US market by late 2025. This looming ban, driven by growing trade tensions and security concerns surrounding Chinese-made drones, has been met with active opposition from advocacy groups and industry voices, but the situation remains fluid.
Meanwhile, the DJI Osmo 360, a mini drone with level-4 wind resistance and 4K UHD video quality, is not currently subject to the drone ban in the US due to its manufacturer not being based in China. The Osmo 360's smaller size, beginner-friendly controls, and high-end features make it a great option for travelers, creators on a budget, or anyone looking for a high-end drone without a high price tag.
Unfortunately, the DJI Neo drone is sold out on the DJI website and Best Buy, and the company has been struggling to import its drones into the US. AeroTech Hubs, a third-party seller, has a 98 percent positive rating and a substantial transaction history, and the DJI Neo drone is currently in stock at Amazon for $199 and ready to ship.
In summary, while the DJI Neo 2 has technically cleared a major regulatory step, it is likely not broadly available for purchase in the US yet due to Customs and national security restrictions amid the looming drone ban on Chinese manufacturers like DJI. On the other hand, the DJI Osmo 360, a high-end, beginner-friendly drone, is not subject to the ban and may be a viable alternative for those seeking a new drone.
[1] https://www.dji.com/neo-2 [2] https://www.dji.com/newsroom/press-releases/dji-unveils-neo-2-the-lightweight-drone-designed-for-vloggers-and-travelers [3] https://www.fcc.gov/document/fcc-grants-dji-neo-2-waiver-require-fcc-certification-drone [4] https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/us-drone-maker-dji-faces-potential-ban-us-market-late-2025-2021-08-09/ [5] https://www.cnet.com/tech/drones/dji-drone-ban-us-2025-what-you-need-to-know/
- Curious consumers interested in the DJI Neo 2 might find it on AeroTech Hubs, a third-party seller with a substantial transaction history, due to DJI's ongoing struggle to import its drones into the US.
- Amidst growing trade tensions and security concerns, the DJI Neo drone, like many other Chinese-made tech products, could face an effective ban in the US market by late 2025, as national security investigations and import restrictions under Section 232 continue.
- tech enthusiasts seeking a high-end, beginner-friendly drone that is not subject to the potential ban on Chinese manufacturers like DJI might want to consider the DJI Osmo 360, offering level-4 wind resistance and 4K UHD video quality.
