Just when we thought we knew everything about DJI's upcoming 360-degree FPV drone, a new leak has surfaced that could fundamentally shift the competitive landscape. The DJI Avata 360 appears to feature a switchable flight mode system that no competitor—including Insta360's Antigravity A1—currently offers.
What the Latest Leak Reveals
According to images first reported by TechRadar , the DJI Avata 360 will feature a revolutionary dual-mode flight system that lets pilots instantly switch between traditional FPV flying and full 360-degree spherical capture—all mid-flight.
This isn't just a marketing gimmick. Having spent extensive time with both the Antigravity A1 prototype and current-generation Avata drones, I can tell you this feature addresses the single biggest limitation of existing 360° drones: you're forced to commit to one capture style before takeoff.
Why Switchable Modes Change Everything
The Antigravity A1 shoots beautiful 8K spherical footage, but it's only a 360° drone. If you want traditional forward-facing FPV shots, you need a completely separate aircraft. That's two drones, two batteries, two sets of accessories—and double the weight in your backpack.
DJI's approach appears fundamentally different. The leaked images suggest the Avata 360 can:
- Standard FPV Mode: Fly like a traditional cinewhoop with the primary camera for action shots, proximity flying, and conventional aerial footage
- 360° Spherical Mode: Activate the full spherical camera array for immersive VR-ready content, invisible drone effects, and reframe-in-post workflows
- Hybrid Recording: Rumored ability to capture both simultaneously, giving editors maximum flexibility
"If DJI nails the mode-switching, this single feature makes the Avata 360 worth it over the Antigravity—even at a similar price point. Versatility always wins for working professionals."
— Billy Stevenson, FPV SpecialistHow DJI Might Achieve This
Based on the previously confirmed specifications, the Avata 360 uses a 1/1.3-inch 64MP sensor derived from the DJI Action 5 Pro. The switchable mode system likely leverages this high-resolution sensor in different ways:
Standard FPV Mode
- • Uses primary forward lens only
- • Full sensor readout for 4K/120fps
- • Traditional gimbal-like stabilization
- • Lower processing overhead = longer flight time
360° Spherical Mode
- • Activates full dual-lens array
- • Stitched 8K/30fps spherical output
- • Omni-Stabilization for horizon lock
- • Higher processing = slightly reduced flight time
What This Means for the 360° Drone Market
The timing of this leak is significant. Insta360's Antigravity A1 is already shipping, and the European drone market is watching closely as DJI faces ongoing regulatory challenges in the US.
If DJI can deliver a versatile 360° FPV drone at or near the rumored $799 base price—roughly half the Antigravity's $1,599 asking price—while offering superior flight time (28-31 minutes vs. 18 minutes) and this switchable mode feature, the competitive calculus shifts dramatically.
For Content Creators
The ability to switch modes mid-flight means you can capture establishing 360° shots and then seamlessly transition to traditional FPV chase sequences—all in one battery cycle. For creators producing VR content, real estate tours, or extreme sports coverage, this workflow improvement could save hours per project.
For Hobbyists
Buying one drone that does both things competently beats buying two drones that each do one thing excellently. The budget considerations are real, and DJI knows their consumer audience prioritizes versatility.
What We Still Don't Know
Despite the exciting leak, several critical questions remain unanswered:
- US Availability: Given the FCC ban situation, will the Avata 360 reach American consumers at all?
- Stitch Quality: How seamlessly does the 360° footage stitch compared to dedicated 360° cameras?
- Heat Management: Can the drone handle extended 360° recording without thermal throttling?
- Release Date: Is this still on track for Q1 2026, or have regulatory hurdles caused delays?
Our Take: Cautious Optimism
I've been covering 360° drones since the first custom cinewhoop builds appeared on FPV forums. What DJI is attempting here—a true hybrid FPV/360° platform with switchable modes—is exactly what this nascent category needs to reach mainstream adoption.
The FPV community has been waiting for something like this: a drone that doesn't force you to choose between immersive 360° capture and the precise control of traditional FPV flying. If DJI delivers on these leaks, the Avata 360 could define this category for years to come.
That said, we've seen promising leaks before that didn't fully materialize. I'll reserve final judgment until I have the production unit in my hands. Stay tuned for our hands-on review the moment we can get one.
Disclosure: This analysis is based on leaked images and prior reporting. We have no affiliate relationship with Insta360 or Antigravity. Some DJI product links may include affiliate tags. All opinions expressed are independently formed based on our testing of related products and industry expertise.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the DJI Avata 360 compare to the Insta360 Antigravity A1?
The key differentiator appears to be versatility. While the Antigravity A1 is a dedicated 360° drone only, the Avata 360 can function as both a traditional FPV cinewhoop and a 360° capture platform. The Avata 360 also offers longer flight time (28-31 minutes vs. 18 minutes) and potentially lower pricing ($799 vs. $1,599).
When will the DJI Avata 360 be available to buy?
Based on current information, the DJI Avata 360 is expected in early-to-mid 2026. However, US availability remains uncertain due to the ongoing FCC restrictions on DJI products. International markets may see earlier availability.
Is the switchable mode feature available on other 360° drones?
Currently, no other 360° drone on the market offers true switchable flight modes. Competitors like the Antigravity A1 are dedicated 360° platforms that cannot function as traditional FPV drones, requiring users to own separate aircraft for different shooting styles.