The World's First 360-Degree Drone Is Here So You Won’t Miss a Thing
For an industry veteran like me, reviewing camera drones is a rare treat. DJI's consistent innovation and reliability have been a benchmark for the sector for years. However, Antigravity has just entered the fray with its first product, the A1, and it does something entirely new: creating a 360-degree video capture system.
The A1 boasts the same "shoot-first, frame-later" technology found in Insta360's X5 cameras, including twin cameras that work together to create seamless spherical videos. The drone allows users to reframe their footage using mobile or desktop apps, adding a new dimension to aerial photography and videography. The drone can capture 8K video at up to 30 frames per second, but lower options are also available for those requiring higher frame rates.
One of the standout features of the A1 is its ability to capture hemispherical views with a single camera, reducing the drone itself and propellers from the view altogether. In-camera software joins the two cameras' footage into seamless spherical videos, removing any need for extensive post-processing editing.
The output video looks impressive for an aerial 360-degree camera system, utilizing Insta360's expertise to deliver high-quality results. Users can easily edit their clips on both desktop and mobile devices using apps provided by Antigravity. While the video quality is excellent in clear conditions, noticeable softening and motion noise can occur in challenging environments.
However, while the A1 excels at capturing stunning 360-degree footage, its flying experience falls short. The device requires users to employ a set of goggles with dual micro LED screens that need their own battery, as well as a grip controller connected to a separate battery source. These controls are meant to enhance safety but instead result in an unnecessarily complex setup.
The A1 is also quite pricey, starting at $1,599/£1,219, which is comparable to the cost of a DJI Air 3S Fly More combo with its touchscreen controller and pro-quality cameras. While the A1's 360-degree video capabilities are innovative, the high price and cumbersome setup make it less accessible as a purchase option for many consumers.
In order for Antigravity to genuinely challenge DJI in the market, they may need to consider simplifying their control interface or offering alternative flying options. With its cutting-edge technology and stunning visuals, the A1 is an intriguing product that just needs some tweaks to make it more user-friendly and affordable.
For an industry veteran like me, reviewing camera drones is a rare treat. DJI's consistent innovation and reliability have been a benchmark for the sector for years. However, Antigravity has just entered the fray with its first product, the A1, and it does something entirely new: creating a 360-degree video capture system.
The A1 boasts the same "shoot-first, frame-later" technology found in Insta360's X5 cameras, including twin cameras that work together to create seamless spherical videos. The drone allows users to reframe their footage using mobile or desktop apps, adding a new dimension to aerial photography and videography. The drone can capture 8K video at up to 30 frames per second, but lower options are also available for those requiring higher frame rates.
One of the standout features of the A1 is its ability to capture hemispherical views with a single camera, reducing the drone itself and propellers from the view altogether. In-camera software joins the two cameras' footage into seamless spherical videos, removing any need for extensive post-processing editing.
The output video looks impressive for an aerial 360-degree camera system, utilizing Insta360's expertise to deliver high-quality results. Users can easily edit their clips on both desktop and mobile devices using apps provided by Antigravity. While the video quality is excellent in clear conditions, noticeable softening and motion noise can occur in challenging environments.
However, while the A1 excels at capturing stunning 360-degree footage, its flying experience falls short. The device requires users to employ a set of goggles with dual micro LED screens that need their own battery, as well as a grip controller connected to a separate battery source. These controls are meant to enhance safety but instead result in an unnecessarily complex setup.
The A1 is also quite pricey, starting at $1,599/£1,219, which is comparable to the cost of a DJI Air 3S Fly More combo with its touchscreen controller and pro-quality cameras. While the A1's 360-degree video capabilities are innovative, the high price and cumbersome setup make it less accessible as a purchase option for many consumers.
In order for Antigravity to genuinely challenge DJI in the market, they may need to consider simplifying their control interface or offering alternative flying options. With its cutting-edge technology and stunning visuals, the A1 is an intriguing product that just needs some tweaks to make it more user-friendly and affordable.