DJI drone ban still in full-force but the US government has issued a small software reprieve, and is letting you have your say

Date:
Mon, 11 May 2026 13:38:30 +0000

Description:
The US governments DJI drone ban still makes no sense but theres 3 pieces of good news for fans in this messy situation.

FULL STORY ======================================================================Copy link Facebook X Whatsapp Reddit Pinterest Flipboard Threads Email Share this article 0 Join the conversation Follow us Add us as a preferred source on Google Newsletter Subscribe to our newsletter The FCC has extended its waiver on software updates for DJI drones The latest extension ends on January 1, 2029 You can also have your say on the DJI ban The US Federal Communications Commissions ban on new DJI drones and its other technology has been a frustrating one for camera enthusiasts and professionals alike as theyre set to miss out on 25 launches this year alone but we finally have a silver lining, even if it is a small one.

Your older DJI drones should stay reliable for a little while longer. Thats because the FCC has announced that its extending the waiver for certain
drones to receive software updates in the US. Previously, it was set to
expire on January 1, 2027, but now it will last until at least January 1,
2029 foreign internet routers have also had their software access extended until this date (via Toms Hardware ). Latest Videos From You may like DJI takes its US ban to court, claiming it 'violates the Constitution' DJI fans
in the US will miss out on 25 drone and camera launches this year DJI teases
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In terms of hardware access, nothing has changed, but it means that manufacturers shouldn't get blocked from releasing essential security or bug fix patches to already sold tech (at least not until 2029). Previously, this was a fear once the waiver ran out, and could have left some tech unable to function if it encountered a glitch, or turn your drone into the sort of security risk that the FCCs ban is meant to avoid.

Meanwhile, DJI is attempting to appeal the FCCs ruling in US courts. The ban came about when DJI was put on the 'Covered List' a list of entities thought to be a threat to national security though neither the FCC nor the US government has explained exactly what DJI has done to deserve this designation.

At the same time, these entities refused to perform a security audit of DJI, despite the company submitting to one.

The whole process has been a frustrating one to watch play out especially given the excellent quality of DJIs camera and drone tech. Hopefully, this waiver extension will help alleviate some issues, but well have to wait and see how the DJI appeal goes for a more definitive verdict on the drone brands US fate. Get daily insight, inspiration and deals in your inbox Sign up for breaking news, reviews, opinion, top tech deals, and more. Contact me with news and offers from other Future brands Receive email from us on behalf of our trusted partners or sponsors By submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over. (Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen) Have your say If youre frustrated with the DJI ban, the FCC is currently giving the public a chance to submit comments on
its measures though the form closes today (May 11), so you dont have much time left.

As highlighted on the r/drones subreddit , you just need to go to the FCCs Submit an Express Comment page and fill in the short form; in the first box, type "26-22" to find the DJI ruling where you'll want to comment.

You will need to provide some personal information (such as your name and address), and then provide your comment on the ban. You can highlight how DJI drones have positively impacted your life, and/or you could question the confusing implementation of the ban how it affects all of DJIs tech rather than just its drones, or how the ban doesnt seem to be applied fairly to
other similar drone makers.

Equally, if you think the ban has had a positive impact (though we here at TechRadar wouldnt agree), you can also leave a comment explaining why you
hope the ban stays in place.

Just remember to keep your comments civil, the FCC likely wont appreciate being bombarded with rude or hateful comments and harsher words wouldnt help either sides arguments in this technology debate. Follow TechRadar on Google News and add us as a preferred source to get our expert news, reviews, and opinion in your feeds. The best drones Top flying camera picks, for all budgets

Read our full best drones guide 1. Best overall DJI Mini 5 Pro 2. Best
budget DJI Mini 4K 3. Best professional DJI Mavic 4 Pro 4. Best for selfies HoverAir X1 Pro



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Link to news story: https://www.techradar.com/cameras/drones/dji-drone-ban-still-in-full-force-but -the-us-government-has-issued-a-small-software-reprieve-and-is-letting-you-hav e-your-say


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