DJI’s next-generation 360-degree camera, the Osmo 360 II, has leaked ahead of its official launch. An unboxing video provided an early look at the product and its differences from the current Osmo 360.

The leak comes at a crucial time for DJI, with the Osmo 360 II and rival Insta360 X6 expected to launch within days of each other, both products sitting in the premium 360-camera category.

The most obvious hardware change in the DJI camera, as revealed by the unboxing, is a larger 2,150mAh battery, up from 1,950mAh in the original Osmo 360. The change in battery represents around a 10% increase in capacity which is significant in that it could give users  shooting high-res 360-degree video longer recording sessions

In terms of physical design, the distinctive square form used by Osmo 360’s first-generation appears to remain in the new model.

The leak does suggest, however, that the Osmo 360 II will continue targeting the high-end 360 market, with reports pointing to roughly 1/1.1-inch CMOS sensors and 8K/50fps 360-degree video capability.

Other reported upgrades include faster USB-C charging, although this has not yet been confirmed by DJI.

There are also reports that DJI could introduce user-replaceable lenses, which, if true, addresses one of the practical weaknesses of 360 cameras, where exposed lenses can be vulnerable to scratches and damage. For those who use 360 cameras for skiing, cycling, motor sports and other activities where the lenses are exposed to damage, this could be an important differentiating factor when choosing their next camera. 

DJI has confirmed an August 13 launch window in China. while global availability and pricing for the rest of the world is currently not clear. The August timing places DJI directly in competition with the release of the new Insta360, which is expected to be unveiled shortly before the Osmo 360 II.

With the Osmo 360 II and Insta360 X6 arriving within days of one another, consumers will have a much clearer choice between two major players just as the 360-camera category enters another upgrade cycle.