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12. August 2025
The DJI Mavic 4 Pro, a flagship drone that has been making waves in the aerial photography and videography communities, may soon have a new feature that has been unavailable to its American users for quite some time. A recently leaked image of a new cellular dongle for the DJI Mavic 4 Pro and RC Pro 2 controller has shed light on this exciting development, which promises to revolutionize the way drone enthusiasts capture stunning aerial footage.
The cellular dongle, as revealed by Argentine Instagrammer Hornero, appears to be a game-changer for drone pilots. This innovative accessory allows either the drone or the controller to connect to a 4G/5G connection, effectively giving users the ability to fly their drones for extended periods without worrying about battery life. The dongles are designed to work seamlessly with the DJI Mavic 4 Pro and RC Pro 2 controller, providing pilots with unparalleled flexibility and convenience.
One of the most significant benefits of this cellular dongle is its potential to expand the range of drone flights. By connecting to a stable 4G/5G signal, pilots can fly their drones farther than ever before, without the need for frequent battery replacements or worrying about losing line-of-sight with the aircraft. This feature is particularly useful for professionals and enthusiasts who require extended flight times to capture high-quality aerial footage.
However, the new dongle has been unavailable in the US market due to regulatory restrictions imposed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The FCC’s rules govern the use of radio frequency devices, including drones, and dictate how they can be used in different regions. DJI has faced challenges navigating these regulations, particularly when it comes to using cellular signals on their drones.
The primary reason for the FCC’s stance against allowing cellular signals on drones is safety concerns. The agency is concerned that the use of cellular signals could compromise national security and public safety by potentially allowing hackers to gain access to drone systems. Additionally, the FCC is wary of the potential interference that cellular signals could cause with other radio frequency devices, including emergency services.
While some argue that these regulations are too restrictive, others believe that they are necessary to ensure public safety and prevent potential security threats. The debate surrounding drone regulations has been ongoing for several years, with many experts calling for more flexibility in the rules governing drone usage.
DJI has made efforts to address some of these concerns through the development of its RC Pro 2 controller. This advanced controller features a WiFi connection that allows pilots to control their drones remotely, even when they are out of range of the standard radio frequency signals. However, this feature is not as convenient as using a cellular signal, particularly for extended flights.
For drone enthusiasts who live in countries outside the US where the new cellular dongle is available, there is an alternative solution. Older DJI dongles, such as the Dongle 2, can be used with certain models of drones to provide internet-connected features. While this solution doesn’t offer the same level of convenience as the new cellular dongle, it does provide a workaround for pilots who want to utilize these features.
The price and release date of the new cellular dongle are currently unknown, but industry insiders predict that it will be similar to or slightly more expensive than the Dongle 2, which was priced at $156.89. While this may seem like a significant investment, many drone enthusiasts believe that the benefits of using a cellular signal outweigh any additional cost.
The availability of this cellular dongle in other regions is also an indication of DJI’s efforts to cater to diverse user needs around the world. By providing a solution for international pilots, DJI demonstrates its commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative solutions that expand the capabilities of drones and make them more accessible to a wider range of users.
The development of cellular dongles for drones is also an indication of the growing importance of connectivity in the drone industry. As drones become increasingly sophisticated, they require more complex systems to manage their flight paths, altitudes, and communication protocols. Cellular signals can provide a vital link between drones and pilots, enabling real-time updates and remote control capabilities.
As drone enthusiasts continue to push the boundaries of what is possible with aerial photography and videography, it’s essential to recognize the importance of regulatory considerations and international cooperation. By working together to develop solutions that balance innovation with safety concerns, we can create a future where drones are not only accessible but also enjoyable for everyone.
Moreover, the development of cellular dongles for drones highlights the need for more flexible regulations in the industry. While some countries have implemented strict rules governing drone usage, others have adopted more relaxed approaches. As the drone industry continues to evolve, it’s essential that policymakers and regulators work together to find solutions that balance innovation with public safety.
In conclusion, the new DJI Mavic 4 Pro cellular dongle is a game-changer for drone pilots who require extended flight times and flexibility in their aerial photography and videography endeavors. While its availability may be limited to certain regions due to regulatory restrictions, it’s clear that DJI is committed to innovation and customer satisfaction. As the industry continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more exciting developments that expand the capabilities of drones and make them more accessible to a wider range of users.