Recently the US Army issued an order to cease the use of DJI-branded drones immediately. Apparently this was due to security/privacy concerns after it was discovered that the data being recorded by the drone was being sent to servers stored outside of the US, which for the US Army did seem rather alarming.However perhaps in a bid to win back the trust (and contract) with the US Army and other governments around the world, DJI has since announced that they’ll be introducing a new feature to their drones which will allow drone users to fly their drones without internet data transfer, meaning that whatever data is being recorded while it flies will no longer be transmitted back to DJI’s servers.
According to DJI, “DJI’s flight control apps routinely communicate over the internet to ensure a drone has the most relevant local maps and geofencing data, latest app versions, correct radio frequency and power requirements, and other information that enhances flight safety and functionality. When a pilot enables local data mode, DJI apps will stop sending or receiving any data over the internet, giving customers enhanced assurances about the privacy of data generated during their flights.”
However the company does warn that by using local data, certain features might not be updated in real time, like geofencing information, maps, and so on. However if privacy and security is something you’re more concerned over, then this new feature should be a welcome on.