DJI now accounts for 70 percent of the consumer drone market. (Photo : Reuters)
Leading Chinese consumer drone maker DJI is aiming to sell drones in the potentially profitable Japanese market after regulations on drones were eased in the country three months ago, according to a report by technologynewschina.com.
On Thursday, March 3, DJI Japan General Manager Allen Wu launched the latest model, Phantom 4, in a mall in Tokyo.
DJI also made a demonstration of the machine, which has propellers, cameras, sensors and automatic tracking technology, followed by a stunt bicycle-rider around, carrying a signboard.
The Shenzen-based company said that it controls 70 percent of the world's consumer drone market and it is expecting its niche market to grow, especially in Japan, a nation of avid photographers and videographers, where many are already using drones.
According to the report, the first law on drones was implemented in Japan in December, with restrictions that included limiting drones to daytime use, prohibiting explosives and not allowing flights over big crowds. The law also required users to get government permission to enable them to use drones near airports and other special areas.
Wu said that DJI drones have taken some 70 million shots in the past year. The footage shown at the launching made maximum use of the camera lens but still delivered high-definition-quality imagery and smooth panning.
The Phantom 4 sells for 189,000 yen ($1,600) in Japan and $1,399 in the U.S. It has a flight range of 5 kilometers (3 miles), at a maximum speed is 72 kph (45 mph).
The model is equipped with a "return to home" (RTH) function, which enables it to come back safely, evading obstacles while it still has battery life.
DJI, the first Chinese company to lead in an emerging technology, is seen to profit in the Japanese market because of the lack of major local competition.
The report said that although Yamaha Motor Co. makes drones, they are only for businesses.
Last year, Sony Corp. invested in Japanese drone company Aerosense, but its drones also are not also meant to be sold to consumers.
