HOVERAir has announced a major firmware update for its X1 Pro and X1 Pro Max drones, introducing exciting new features aimed squarely at action sports enthusiasts and cinematic content creators. Chief among the additions are Cycling & Ski Mode, Dolly Track Zoom, and the long-anticipated Co-Pilot feature—each designed to give users more creative control and intelligent tracking options when capturing fast-paced footage.
Cyclists and snow sports fans can now take advantage of the new Cycling & Ski Mode, which enables the X1 Pro Max to intelligently track a rider across dynamic terrain. Whether on winding mountain bike trails or carving through powder, the drone uses improved tracking algorithms to maintain framing while adjusting for speed and environmental conditions.
Also included is Dolly Track Zoom, a dramatic cinematic effect made famous by films like Vertigo. This mode allows the background to zoom in or out while keeping the subject the same size in the frame, adding an intense, professional look to footage without the need for post-production trickery.
The third major update is Co-Pilot, a hybrid control feature that lets users manually influence the drone’s movement via the beacon or joystick, even while operating in automated tracking modes like Follow, Side Track, or Dolly Track. This added flexibility offers creators the best of both worlds—hands-on control when needed, and reliable automation when desired.
All three features are part of a free firmware upgrade available now for the X1 Pro and X1 Pro Max. You can read an in-depth review of the original Hover Camera X1 over on Camera Jabber, which provides a helpful baseline for understanding just how far this series has evolved.
Specifications:
- Weight: 225g
- Flight time: Approx. 11 minutes
- Max resolution: 2.7K at 30fps
- Modes: Follow, Orbit, Dolly Track, Hover, Zoom Out, Snapshot
- Sensors: Visual sensors for precise indoor and outdoor tracking
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, app control, beacon support
- Storage: 32GB internal storage
- New features: Cycling & Ski Mode, Dolly Track Zoom, Co-Pilot
Price and Availability:
The hoverAir X1 Pro Max is currently available via the official HOVERAir website, with a special Prime Day promotion offering 20% off between July 8–10. This limited-time discount makes it an excellent time for newcomers and current users alike to either upgrade or get started with this ultra-portable smart drone. Regular pricing is approximately £419 / $529, with accessories and bundles available separately.
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