DJI Mavic, Air and Mini Drones
Friendly, Helpful & Knowledgeable Community
Join Us Now

Course Lock?

I ask Google AI: Why is there no course lock function on the DJI Mavic 3?








You're right to note that the DJI Mavic 3 doesn't have the traditional "Course Lock" function that some older models had
.
Why was it removed?
While DJI hasn't explicitly stated the reason, the general consensus among users and experts is that it was likely a strategic decision related to DJI's move away from restrictive flight features, such as their complete removal of geofencing. This shift may be driven by factors such as:
  • Liability: By removing features that could potentially be misinterpreted or misused by pilots, DJI can shift the responsibility for safe and compliant flight onto the operator.
  • Complexity: Maintaining a constantly updated database of restricted airspace for features like geofencing requires significant resources. Eliminating it allows DJI to streamline its operations and standardize drones across different regions.
What about alternatives?
While you can't use Course Lock for standard video recording, the Mavic 3 does offer some related features within its Hyperlapse mode.
  • Hyperlapse Course Lock: This mode allows you to lock the drone's orientation and fly in a straight line while recording a hyperlapse video. However, this is specific to hyperlapses and doesn't provide the ability to record straight video with free camera movement, according to one user on the Mavic Pilots forum.
  • Waypoints: This feature allows you to pre-program a flight path with specific waypoints and settings, including camera angles. While useful for repeatable shots, you'll need to manually control the camera during the flight if you want to adjust the angle or pan.
  • Manual Flight with Gimbal Control: You can manually fly the drone in a straight line using the joysticks and simultaneously control the camera's panning and tilting. Holding your finger on the RC screen and moving it left/right allows you to maneuver the camera sideways.
In summary:
The absence of Course Lock on the Mavic 3 is likely a deliberate decision by DJI to align with their strategy of shifting more control and responsibility to the drone pilot. While there are some alternative features for specific scenarios, you'll need to explore manual flight and potentially third-party apps to achieve the full range of flight and camera control previously offered by Course Lock.
 

DJI Drone Deals

New Threads

Forum statistics

Threads
137,208
Messages
1,625,259
Members
165,822
Latest member
NASA.GOV
Want to Remove this Ad? Simply login or create a free account