The Mavic Pro controller is a marvelous piece of tech from DJI. The compact size of the Mavic Pro always takes people by surprise; it’s easy to set up until you try to connect your phone to the controller. You would expect a more streamlined approach, but it seems the experience varies on which phone you own. You’d think iPhone 7+ would have it easy.

Design

The controller was also redesigned at the same time with the redesign of the quadrocopter and now gives the impression of a gamepad. The controller is now foldable and can be transported very comfortably. In the folded out state makes the clever mechanism possible that a smartphone can be used below the controller. While the controller displays important telemetry data thanks to an integrated LC display, the smartphone is used to display the FPV image. All in all, DJI now offers a control solution that outshines even Yuneec controllers, phantom controllers or controllers from the professional area in terms of user-friendliness, flexibility or transportability.

Packing a serious transmission range, the drone’s controller is backed up by a 2970mAh 3.7 V battery that will – in theory – support mobile devices that are 6.5 to 8.5 mm thick and as long as 160 mm. The new iPhone 7+ packs a dual camera lens set up on the back, it’s larger and this is why the controller is reluctant to work alongside this device.

Features

The DJI Mavic Pro can be piloted exclusively by means of a smartphone (“Fly by Phone”), by means of a smartphone and controller or ultimately exclusively with a suitable controller. The fact that the DJI Mavic Pro can only be controlled with a smartphone is a remarkable innovation in the DJI world. Similar to toy and hobby drones à la Parrot Bebop 2, the DJI GO app now offers virtual control sticks, so that the drone can also be controlled by fingertip, if the actual controller is not available. Of course, the usual flight modes (TapFly, Trace, Spotlight, Profile, Circle) are also available for control via smartphone.

Use the Remote Controller to control the aircraft and the gimbal wirelessly. Linking is required when using the Remote Controller for the first time. An onboard LCD screen keeps you updated on aircraft data. Mount your mobile device in the adjustable handles. Both Master and Slave remote controllers can control the aircraft and gimbal, but the master remote controller has priority. A more experienced pilot can use the Master remote controller to override a less experienced pilot for better safety. Dual Remote Controller Mode makes it fun and easy to fly the Mavic and film aerial footage collaboratively.