DJI has released a new smartphone gimbal called the Osmo Mobile 8P. The big new feature is not the stabilizer itself, but a small detachable screen that lets you see what your phone camera sees from far away.
The screen is part of a remote called the Osmo FrameTap. It comes with every Osmo Mobile 8P you buy. The remote is magnetic, weighs only about 29 grams, and works with Bluetooth up to 10 meters away.
So why does this matter? Imagine you are recording a video of yourself. Normally, you have to walk back to your phone to check if you are in the frame. With this remote, you just look at the small screen in your hand. You can see the live view from your phone. You can also start and stop recording, zoom in and out, move the gimbal with a joystick, and change the brightness of the fill light. All without touching your phone.
If you use an Android phone, the remote can also mirror your phone’s screen. That means you can use the better rear camera for selfies while still controlling everything from a distance. This is usually something you need expensive gear for, so it is a nice touch for vloggers.
The tracking system has also been improved as well. The new version, called ActiveTrack 8.0, works better when there are lots of people around or when the person you are filming gets blocked for a moment. You can also buy an extra part called the Multifunctional Module 2. That lets the gimbal track things like cars or buildings, not just people or pets.
For iPhone users, there is Apple DockKit support. This means the tracking works inside apps like the standard Camera app, YouTube, and Blackmagic Camera without needing extra setup.
The rest of the gimbal is similar to earlier DJI models. You still get three-axis stabilization, a built-in handle that extends, a small foldable tripod, and about 10 hours of battery life in good conditions.
The DJI Mimo app adds a few fun ways to shoot, like DynamicZoom, Slow Shutter, Action Shot, and a 360-degree spin mode.
The standard DJI Osmo Mobile 8P bundle costs €159 (~Php11,300). A more expensive bundle with the Multifunctional Module 2 and a microphone costs €219 (~Php15,500). Pricing and availability in the Philippines are still unknown.