Meet the Neo 2: DJI’s Lightweight Follow-Me Drone
DJI has introduced the Neo 2, a compact follow-me drone pitched as a “flying personal photographer.” Weighing in at about 151 grams, the Neo 2 is designed to slip into everyday moments without getting in the way, while still delivering high-quality aerial footage. The device aims to balance portability with intelligent flight features, making it a compelling option for casual users and content creators who want a grab-and-go drone for spontaneous shoots.
Omnidirectional Obstacle Avoidance: Safety in Every Direction
One of the standout features of the Neo 2 is its full omnidirectional obstacle avoidance system. Unlike traditional drones that focus on forward-facing sensors, the Neo 2 uses a combination of sensors around the craft to detect obstacles in all directions. This means safer flights in tight spaces, crowded parks, and indoor environments where walls, furniture, and people can pose hazards. For photographers, this translates into more reliable auto-tracking and following modes, minimizing the risk of interruptions during key moments.
Navigation and Smart Flight Modes
Beyond obstacle avoidance, the Neo 2 leverages intelligent algorithms to keep subjects in frame even when they move unpredictably. The drone’s follow-me capabilities work in tandem with gesture control and smart selfie modes, enabling a more hands-off approach to capturing personal moments. Users can initiate takeoff with a simple palm gesture and rely on the drone to maintain a steady composition while you pose or stroll through a landscape.
Gesture Control and Palm Takeoff
Gesture control is a user-friendly bridge between consumer familiarity and advanced flight tech. The Neo 2 recognizes specific hand movements, allowing you to trigger takeoff, start recording, or capture photos without needing a remote or smartphone command. This feature is particularly appealing for solo creators who want to document themselves without asking a friend to pilot the device. Palm takeoff also contributes to a quick, intuitive setup, so you can focus more on your shot and less on configuration.
Smart Selfie Features for Everyday Moments
As a “flying personal photographer,” the Neo 2 emphasizes smart selfie features. In practice, this means automatic framing, smooth tracking, and convenient shortcuts for social media-ready clips. The drone’s compact form factor encourages users to bring it along on daily adventures—whether you’re exploring a city, hiking a trail, or capturing a family moment at the park. The result is a lightweight, portable drone that can enhance storytelling without demanding a lot of technical know-how.
Design, Weight, and Portability
At roughly 151 grams, the Neo 2 is designed with everyday carry in mind. Its light weight makes it easy to slip into a bag, and the simplified flight controls help reduce the learning curve for new pilots. While smaller drones can sometimes compromise on battery life or wind resistance, the Neo 2’s suite of sensors and smart features aim to offer a balanced experience—enabling confident flights in a variety of mild outdoor conditions and indoor spaces with limited airflow.
What It Means for Content Creators
For creators who want to capture more dynamic footage without investing significant time in drone piloting, the Neo 2 presents an attractive option. The combination of omnidirectional obstacle avoidance, gesture control, and auto-following capabilities helps ensure that a subject remains in frame as scenes unfold. While it may not replace professional drones for complex shoots, it serves as a practical “always-on” tool for vlogs, travel videos, and candid moments.
Bottom Line: A Practical, Portable Flying Companion
In the evolving landscape of consumer drones, the Neo 2 stands out for its emphasis on safety, ease of use, and everyday portability. Its omnidirectional obstacle avoidance reduces the friction of shooting in busy environments, while gesture control and smart selfie features empower users to capture authentic moments with minimal setup. For anyone seeking a lightweight, reliable flying photographer that fits in a small bag, the Neo 2 offers a compelling option worth considering.
