The DJI Matrice 4 Series

DJI has recently unveiled the Matrice 4, an advanced enterprise-level drone that draws inspiration from the sleek design of the Mavic 3. With exciting new features and cutting-edge capabilities, there is already much to consider about this innovative new system. A major addition to the new Matrice range is the inclusion of AI features and onboard edge computing—now you can track and count cars, people, and boats directly on-screen and even generate low-detail 3D models to aid flight planning.

DJI's Strategic Shift: Redefining Mavic and Matrice Branding

DJI is making a noticeable shift in its naming strategy by moving away from the "Mavic" branding for certain models. This shift suggests that DJI is reserving the "Mavic" branding exclusively for consumer drones while using the "Matrice" name for enterprise models.

After releasing around a dozen models under the Mavic name, the company introduced two enterprise-focused drones within the last year: the Matrice 3, designed for Dock 2 operations, and now the Matrice 4.

Design Changes

While the name differs, Matrice 4’s body strongly resembles that of the Mavic 3. However, key differences include the addition of an RTK module mounted on top and a significantly larger payload at the front, making it more suited for heavy-duty operations.

Size Comparison

·       Matrice 4 vs. Mavic 3 Enterprise: The Matrice 4 is approximately 60% larger.

·       Matrice 4 vs. Matrice 30: The Matrice 4 is approximately 60% smaller.

Weight comparison

·       Matrice 4 vs. Mavic 3 Enterprise: The Matrice 4 is 30% heavier.

·       Matrice 4 vs. Matrice 30: The Matrice 4 is 60% lighter.

This breakdown highlights how the Matrice 4 fits between the compact Mavic 3 Enterprise and the rugged Matrice 30, balancing portability with payload capacity.

AI Capabilities

 Another standout feature is its AI functionality. This is not necessarily a new feature for a drone this size, there others. However, the Matrice 4 differentiates itself with the ability to do your own model training.  While DJI has yet to elaborate on the details, the AI model training feature has the potential to enhance drone versatility, though it remains similar to existing visual-based AI learning models.

Comparison with Mavic 3 Enterprise Series

In terms of the nuts and bolts of the unit, it does seem to be an improvement over the Mavic 3 Enterprise line in many respects. The built-in RTK module enables it to function safely above people while still providing the expected levels of accuracy a base station offers. Low light obstacle avoidance is certainly an addition that most pilots appreciate. Finally, the NIR light on the Matrice 4 Thermal unit is likely to become a favourite for first responders. However, DJI’s improved anti-spoofing technology might present some challenges for certain users.

In terms of pilot assist features, we believe the cruise function has the best chance to change a pilot's workflow. With the drone able to maintain a forward momentum on its own, a single pilot could focus extensively on their payload to capture the best dataset. Object tracking is not a new function for DJI drones, but users of this feature would not have called it smart before. We will have to see if DJI’s new algorithms can improve tracking in real-world conditions, once we have access to the hardware. However, I believe the FlyTo function is the most intriguing. DJI has been testing this function out for a while. In high-pressure or confusing scenarios, such as rescue missions for first responders, we will have to see if point and click drone flying will improve operational efficiency.

Matrice 4 Enterprise and Thermal Features

As there is a lot to learn about the Matrice 4 Enterprise and Thermal variants, we have created this chart of the new drone’s most interesting features for you to compare against the current model: the Mavic 3 Enterprise series.

Comparison Chart

 * Indicates when a drone has some, but not all of the features listed.

** Indicates when a drone has a different solution that accomplishes a similar result.

Key Accessories

The most interesting item for current Mavic Enterprise users is that the AS1 Speaker, which DJI will be releasing with the Matrice 4, will also be backwards compatible with the Mavic 3 Enterprise series. Mavic 3 Enterprise users are probably already aware of the third-party options, but this will mark the first speaker system that DJI has made for a drone the size of a Mavic 3. This is a fact that Mavic 3 users will celebrate because DJI pilots know that DJI payloads always just work when attached to a DJI drone.

Contact Us for More Information

Interested in learning more about the Matrice 4 or its advanced accessories like the AS1 speaker and AL1 spotlight? Contact us at Info@ired.co.uk, and our experts will be delighted to assist you.