The DJI Smart Controller has been a popular accessory for DJI drone users since its release in 2019. The controller features a built-in display, making it a convenient option for those who prefer not to use their smartphone or tablet to control their drones. However, recent reports suggest that the DJI Smart Controller may have been discontinued.
According to B&H Photo, the original DJI Smart Controller has been listed as discontinued. This has left some DJI drone users wondering if there will be any other options available for a controller with a built-in display. While there has been no official statement from DJI regarding the discontinuation of the Smart Controller, the listing on B&H Photo may indicate that it is no longer being produced.
If you are a DJI drone user who is interested in purchasing a Smart Controller, it may be worth considering your options carefully. While there are still some Smart Controllers available on the market, it is unclear if DJI will release a new version of the controller in the future. It is also worth noting that the Smart Controller may not be compatible with all DJI drones, so be sure to check compatibility before making a purchase.
Overview of DJI Smart Controller
The DJI Smart Controller is a popular accessory for drone enthusiasts. It features a built-in display, eliminating the need for a mobile device to control your DJI drone. With its 1000 cd/m2 brightness, it is capable of delivering clear and detailed images even in bright sunlight.
The DJI Smart Controller is equipped with OcuSync 2.0 Full-HD video transmission technology, supporting automatic switching between 2.4 GHz and 5.8 GHz. This reduces the influence of environmental interference on drone operation and image quality, providing a stable and reliable connection between the drone and the controller.
One of the key benefits of the DJI Smart Controller is its ease of use. It has a simple and intuitive interface that allows users to easily navigate through the various settings and features. It also has a quick setup, making it easy to get started with your drone flying experience.
The DJI Smart Controller has a range of up to 8 km, providing ample distance for capturing stunning aerial footage. It is also compatible with a wide range of DJI drones, including the Mavic 2 Pro, Mavic 2 Zoom, Mavic Air 2, and the Phantom 4 Pro V2.0.
Overall, the DJI Smart Controller is a valuable accessory for drone enthusiasts who want a hassle-free and high-quality flying experience. Despite recent rumors of it being discontinued, it remains a popular choice among drone pilots.
The Discontinuation Rumors
There have been rumors circulating about the discontinuation of DJI Smart Controller. The product is showing as out of stock on the official DJI retail store as well as with several authorized resellers. Meanwhile, B&H Photo has marked the product as “discontinued” on its website. This has led to speculation that the DJI Smart Controller has been discontinued.
However, it’s important to note that there has been no official announcement from DJI regarding the discontinuation of the Smart Controller. While some retailers may have marked the product as discontinued, it’s possible that this is due to a temporary stock shortage or other supply chain issues.
Furthermore, DJI has recently released the DJI RC and RC Pro Smart Controller, which may have replaced the older Smart Controller. According to DronesVue, the newer controllers offer improved features such as a more powerful processor, longer battery life, and compatibility with a wider range of DJI drones.
In summary, while there have been rumors about the discontinuation of the DJI Smart Controller, there has been no official confirmation from DJI. It’s possible that the product is simply experiencing temporary stock shortages or other supply chain issues. Additionally, DJI has released newer controllers that may have replaced the Smart Controller.
Official Statements from DJI
DJI has not released an official statement regarding the discontinuation of the Smart Controller. However, some retailers have labeled the product as discontinued, leading to confusion among consumers.
Despite this, DJI continues to sell the Smart Controller on their website, and it is still available for purchase through some retailers. DJI has not given any indication that they plan to discontinue support for the device or stop providing firmware updates.
It is worth noting that DJI has released newer versions of the Smart Controller, including the DJI RC and RC Pro Smart Controllers. These newer models offer improved features and functionality, but they are not direct replacements for the original Smart Controller.
Overall, while the status of the DJI Smart Controller may be uncertain, it is still available for purchase and is supported by DJI. Customers who are interested in purchasing the device should check with their preferred retailer for availability.
Impact on DJI Users
The discontinuation of the DJI Smart Controller has left many DJI users wondering what their options are for remote control of their drones. While the Smart Controller was a popular choice for many, DJI has not left their users without alternatives.
One option for users is the DJI Remote Controller Pro, which is still available for purchase. This controller offers similar features to the Smart Controller, including a built-in screen and compatibility with DJI’s OcuSync 2.0 transmission system. It is also compatible with a wider range of DJI drones, making it a versatile option for users.
Another option for users is to use their smartphone or tablet as a controller. DJI offers a range of apps that can be used to control their drones, including the DJI Fly app, which is designed for use with the Mavic Mini and Mini 2, and the DJI Go 4 app, which is compatible with a range of DJI drones.
While the discontinuation of the Smart Controller may be disappointing for some users, DJI has ensured that there are still plenty of options available for controlling their drones. Users can choose from a range of controllers and apps, depending on their preferences and the specific drone they are using.
Overall, the impact of the Smart Controller’s discontinuation is minimal, as DJI has provided users with a range of alternatives to choose from. Whether users prefer a dedicated controller or using their smartphone or tablet, there are plenty of options available to ensure that they can continue to fly their drones with ease and precision.
Alternatives to DJI Smart Controller
As the DJI Smart Controller has been discontinued, drone enthusiasts are looking for alternatives that can provide a similar experience. Here are some options that you can consider:
DJI Remote Controllers
DJI offers a range of remote controllers that can be used with their drones. These controllers are compatible with different models and offer varying features. For example, the DJI Mavic Air 2S controller has a built-in screen, while the DJI Mavic 3 controller has a larger 7.7 inch screen. These controllers offer a similar experience to the DJI Smart Controller, but you will need to connect your smartphone or tablet to use the DJI Fly app.
Third-party Controllers
There are several third-party controllers available in the market that are compatible with DJI drones. For example, the Skyreat Mavic Air 2S controller offers a similar experience to the DJI Smart Controller, with a built-in screen and a 5.5 inch display. It also has a range of up to 10 kilometers and supports both Android and iOS devices. Other third-party controllers include the Autel Robotics EVO II controller and the Yuneec ST16S controller.
Tablets and Smartphones
If you don’t want to invest in a new controller, you can use your smartphone or tablet to control your DJI drone. All you need to do is download the DJI Fly app and connect your device to the drone’s remote controller. While this option may not offer the same experience as a dedicated controller, it is a cost-effective way to control your drone.
In conclusion, while the DJI Smart Controller has been discontinued, there are several alternatives available in the market that can provide a similar experience. Whether you choose to invest in a new remote controller or use your smartphone or tablet, you can continue to enjoy flying your DJI drone.
Market Reaction to the Discontinuation
The news of DJI discontinuing the Smart Controller has caused some concern among drone enthusiasts. Many DJI users have expressed their disappointment on various online forums and social media platforms. The Smart Controller was a popular accessory among DJI drone owners, and the discontinuation has left many people wondering what their options are for a controller with a built-in display.
Some users have expressed frustration that they spent a significant amount of money on the Smart Controller, only to have it discontinued so soon after its release. Others are concerned that there are no other options available on the market that offer the same level of functionality as the Smart Controller.
Despite the disappointment, some users are optimistic that DJI will release a new and improved version of the Smart Controller in the future. Others are exploring alternative options, such as using a tablet or smartphone as a controller.
Overall, the discontinuation of the Smart Controller has sparked a lot of discussion among DJI users. While some are disappointed, others are hopeful that DJI will release a new and improved version of the Smart Controller in the future. In the meantime, users will have to explore alternative options or use the standard controller that comes with their drone.
Future of DJI Smart Controller
As of November 2021, the DJI Smart Controller has been marked as discontinued by B&H Photo, and it is currently out of stock on the official DJI retail store and several authorized resellers. This has led many to wonder about the future of the DJI Smart Controller.
While DJI has not officially announced the discontinuation of the Smart Controller, it is possible that the company is phasing it out in favor of newer models such as the DJI RC and RC Pro Smart Controller. These newer models offer improved features and compatibility with newer drones, making them a more attractive option for drone pilots.
However, it is worth noting that the DJI Smart Controller is still a highly sought-after accessory for many drone owners. Its super-bright screen, quick setup, 8 km transmission range, and lack of cable issues make it a must-have for many pilots. Additionally, the Smart Controller’s compatibility with a wide range of DJI drones means that it is still a valuable investment for those who already own one.
It remains to be seen whether DJI will release a new version of the Smart Controller or discontinue it entirely. In the meantime, those who are looking to purchase a Smart Controller may want to act quickly as remaining stock may be limited. As always, it is important to do your research and compare the features and compatibility of different controllers before making a purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the DJI Smart Controller still available for purchase?
No, the DJI Smart Controller has been discontinued and is no longer available for purchase from the official DJI retail store or several authorized resellers. However, there are still plenty of them available on the market, so you can still buy one if you want.
What are the alternatives to the DJI Smart Controller?
The DJI RC Controller is a great alternative to the Smart Controller. It is compatible with a wide range of DJI drones, including the Mavic 2 Pro, Mavic 2 Zoom, Mavic 2 Enterprise, and Phantom 4 Pro V2.0. Additionally, the DJI Fly app is compatible with most smartphones and tablets, so you can use your phone or tablet as a controller.
Can the DJI RC Pro be used as a replacement for the Smart Controller?
No, the DJI RC Pro cannot be used as a replacement for the Smart Controller. The RC Pro is designed for use with the DJI Mavic 2 Enterprise drone and is not compatible with other DJI drones.
What devices are compatible with the DJI RC Controller?
The DJI RC Controller is compatible with a wide range of DJI drones, including the Mavic 2 Pro, Mavic 2 Zoom, Mavic 2 Enterprise, and Phantom 4 Pro V2.0. Additionally, the DJI Fly app is compatible with most smartphones and tablets, so you can use your phone or tablet as a controller.
How does the DJI Smart Controller compare to other DJI controllers?
The DJI Smart Controller is a great controller for DJI drones, with a built-in screen that makes it easy to see what the drone is seeing. However, it is more expensive than other DJI controllers, and some users find the screen to be too small. The DJI RC Controller is a good alternative to the Smart Controller, with a larger screen and a lower price point.
Is the discontinuation of the DJI Smart Controller permanent or temporary?
It is unclear whether the discontinuation of the DJI Smart Controller is permanent or temporary. DJI has not provided any official statement regarding the future availability of the Smart Controller.
Jon is a passionate photographer and videographer who has been flying DJI drones for over 5 years. He loves the freedom and creativity that comes with capturing aerial footage and the unique perspective it provides. Jon is always on the lookout for new locations to explore and capture with his DJI drones. His favorite DJI drone is the Mavic 2 Pro, which he uses to capture stunning 4K footage with its Hasselblad camera. Jon is always eager to share his knowledge and experience with other drone enthusiasts and is a member of several online drone communities. When he’s not flying his DJI drone, Jon enjoys hiking, camping, and spending time with his family.
