DJI, long renowned as the global leader in camera drones, on Feb. 18 released the Osmo Mobile 7 Series, the latest generation in its lineup of smartphone stabilizers. Not only is this likely a smart move amid regulatory scrutiny, but it continues to expand DJI’s presence as a household name by getting in the hands of not just drone pilots but all sorts of content creators.
The Osmo Mobile 7 series consists of two products: the Osmo Mobile 7P and Osmo Mobile 7. What’s super compelling is the price. Both products come in at less than $150 each — and the Osmo Mobile 7 comes in at less than $100.
- Osmo Mobile 7P: $149
- Osmo Mobile 7: $89
Here’s what you need to know about both products, whether you should go for the Osmo Mobile 7P vs. Osmo Mobile 7, as well as what this means for the future of DJI.
Osmo Mobile 7 series: smarter tracking, better stabilization
The Osmo Mobile series is something of a combination between a small tripod and the gimbal you’re familiar with on drones that stabilizes your shots.
The Osmo Mobile 7 is, well, the 7th generation in the series. And this latest in the lineup brings several key upgrades over its predecessor, including seventh-generation stabilization and ActiveTrack 7.0, DJI’s most advanced subject-tracking system yet.
Multifunctional Module
The big differentiator with the Osmo Mobile 7 series is what DJI is calling a Multifunctional Module. This allows users to track subjects from their smartphone’s native camera or, when applicable, other camera apps like live streaming apps. To use it, you can just attach it to the gimbal with a magnetic clip (included). From there, you can control it using simple hand gestures. For example, you could make a “V” with your hands to take a photo. It should be pretty smart to, able to maintain focus in a crowd or reacquire a subject if they re-enter the frame after temporarily leaving the frame.
ActiveTrack 7.0
Designed to keep subjects locked in frame even in crowded environments, the new tracking algorithm will supposedly ensure smoother, more cinematic footage than what was previously possible in the Osmo Mobile series.
To use it, you’ll have to also pair it with the DJI Mimo app. A technology called Smart Capture allows the gimbal to detect subjects in the frame. From there, you as the film’s director can tell the gimbal which subject you want to lock onto by tapping them. Switch to another subject during the shoot by tapping them.
Apple Watch compatibility
Though DJI has in many ways been modeled after Apple, the Osmo Mobile 7 has a key Apple integration — and it’s pretty interesting. If you have an Apple Watch, you can sync it to the DJI Mimo app to use the watch as a smart remote for the gimbal so you can remote controlling your shoot and camera feed.
Osmo Mobile 7P vs. Osmo Mobile 7
Between the Osmo Mobile 7P versus Osmo Mobile 7, which should you choose? The Osmo Mobile 7P is the more advanced (and more expensive) of the two, coming in at $149 versus just $89 for the Osmo Mobile 7.
With the the Osmo Mobile 7P, you get a three-axis stabilizer, an integrated light module, and a Multifunctional Module that doubles as both a microphone receiver and a power bank.
The Osmo Mobile 7 is basically a pared down version, the primary difference being that it doesn’t come with the Multifunctional Module. But here’s what’s nice for shoppers on a budget. It can still support the Multifunctional Module, which DJI also sells separately. So down the line, if you’re ready for an upgrade (and your budget allows it), you could purchase that Multifunctional Module when you’re ready.
One big selling point that the cheaper 7 has over the 7P is its size. It weighs just 10 ounces (about 300 grams), making it the lightest gimbal in its class. It’s super portable with an unfolding design that still functions as a built-in tripod.
DJI’s strategic pivot: future-proofing against drone restrictions
Drone pilots (and the original type of DJI customer) range from travelers documenting their trips across epic landscapes, to STEM and first response professionals using drones as necessary tools for map-making or emergency response.
On the other hand, the Osmo Mobile audience is more of your Instagram content creator or YouTube vlogger, often just documenting daily life activities like going to the gym or munching on croissants.
As the U.S. and other nations debate potential bans or restrictions on DJI drones due to security concerns, the company has been actively diversifying its portfolio — trying to reach the customers who are foodie influencers just as much as those industrial businesses using drones for inspections.
Sure, DJI continues to dominate the drone market. But this latest Osmo Mobile 7 series reinforces DJI’s broader strategy to solidify its presence in camera technology beyond just drones — a move that seems particularly prudent given increasing regulatory scrutiny on Chinese-made drones. By expanding its lineup of gimbals, action cameras, and stabilizers, DJI is ensuring it remains indispensable to filmmakers and content creators, regardless of how drone regulations evolve.
Osmo Mobile 7 price (and how to get your hands on your own Osmo Mobile 7)
The Osmo Mobile 7 Series is available starting today:
- Osmo Mobile 7P: $149
- Osmo Mobile 7: $89
That low price is particularly impressive, especially in light of the newly implemented 10% tariffs on Chinese products.
You might also upgrade to one of the many accessories, which include a Magnetic Quick-Release Mount, Mic Mini Transmitter and Tracking Kit. DJI is also offering DJI Care Refresh, which is its own extended warranty policy. DJI Care Refresh covers accidental damage with up to four replacements over two years.
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