Charles EstherDJI seems to be preparing to launch the DJI Mini 5, a follow-up to its highly acclaimed Mini 4 Pro.
Leaked images and industry chatter suggest the next-gen drone will feature LiDAR sensors, improved motors, and possibly an upgraded camera sensor.
While DJI has yet to confirm its existence officially, testing activity in China points to a summer 2025 debut.
Leaked Images Hint at LiDAR Sensors and Design Changes
Newly leaked photos published on DroneXL show what appears to be a DJI Mini 5 test unit flying in public in China.
These images were accompanied by analysis from drone expert Jasper Ellens, who previously hinted at the Mini 5’s development on X (formerly Twitter) back in December 2024.
The leaked images show a drone closely resembling the Mini 4 Pro, but with noticeable upgrades:
- A larger front-facing camera
- Apparent LiDAR sensors mounted above the lens
- Propeller guards, likely for safety during field testing
LiDAR on a Mini Drone Would Be a First
If confirmed, the inclusion of LiDAR sensors would make the Mini 5 the first sub-250g drone to offer this cutting-edge obstacle detection technology.
LiDAR—short for Light Detection and Ranging—enables more accurate mapping and navigation, especially in low-light or nighttime conditions.
We’ve seen this tech in DJI’s premium Air series, but its arrival in the Mini lineup would be a significant leap forward.
Enhanced Collision Avoidance and Night Flight Capabilities
LiDAR provides a distinct advantage over traditional vision-based obstacle avoidance, especially when flying in complex or dimly lit environments.
For drone enthusiasts and content creators who fly in challenging scenarios, this upgrade could prove invaluable.
Stronger Motors and Possible Flight Time Boosts
Another rumored feature is the use of “vented” or more efficient motors.
This could lead to better flight stability, faster speeds, and potentially improved performance in windy conditions.
Some sources also speculate the Mini 5 might push flight times to around 50 minutes, a huge improvement from the Mini 4 Pro’s 34 minutes.
Could a 1-Inch Sensor Be Coming to the Mini 5?
Though not yet confirmed, whispers from industry insiders suggest that the Mini 5 could feature a 1-inch image sensor.
This would significantly improve low-light performance and dynamic range, positioning the Mini 5 as a serious tool for professional aerial photography—while staying under the 250g regulatory threshold.
Why the Sub-250g Weight Class Still Matters
Keeping the drone under 250 grams is crucial for many pilots, especially hobbyists in the U.S., Europe, and other regions where drones above this weight require extra licensing and registration.
DJI has historically prioritized staying within this range for its Mini series, and it’s likely that the Mini 5 will continue that trend.
A Summer Launch Seems Likely
Given that DJI is already testing the Mini 5 in public, most insiders believe an official announcement could arrive by August or September 2025.
This would align with the company’s two-year release cycle and give fans enough time to get excited about the new features.
A Worthy Upgrade or Just a Niche Boost?
While LiDAR, stronger motors, and a possible sensor upgrade are impressive, the real question is whether these improvements are enough to convince current Mini 4 Pro users to upgrade.
For those who only fly in ideal daylight conditions, LiDAR may not be a must-have.
However, for creators and explorers who fly in complex environments, these enhancements could make the Mini 5 a must-buy.
Conclusion
The DJI Mini 5 looks set to raise the bar once again for ultra-lightweight drones.
With the potential for LiDAR sensors, improved hardware, and longer flight times, this could be DJI’s most powerful sub-250g drone yet.
All signs point to a summer launch, and if DJI’s past product cycles are anything to go by, we can expect a steady stream of leaks before then.
