The Hover Air X1 Pro Max has reached a new milestone with its latest update, thanks to user feedback. This flying camera is now fully equipped to capture stunning 8K video with incredible dynamic range and exceptional tracking performance. Let’s dive into the HoverAir X1 Pro Max New Update and explore the enhanced features that make the Hover Air X1 Pro Max a top-tier flying camera.
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What’s New?
The Hover X1 Pro Max has just received its latest update, version 7.3.4, bringing three significant improvements. This drone, already known as the ultimate flying camera, has now solidified its status with 8K video capability in all modes. Previously, 8K was only available in certain modes. The three updates we’ll discuss are: first, the expanded 8K functionality; second, enhancements to exposure; and third, an upgrade to the beacon, which now offers improved connection, signal quality, and better linking between the beacon and the drone.
8K Video Support
Let’s start with the 8K functionality. When the Hover X1 Pro Max was first released, we all expected 8K capabilities across the board, especially since the Pro Max model was marketed as supporting 8K. However, early backers, influencers, and creators were surprised and disappointed to find that 8K was only available in certain modes. Notably, 8K was absent in Follow Mode, which is arguably the most important feature for a flying camera drone like the Hover Air.
With the latest firmware update, v7.3.4, Hover has listened to user feedback and delivered 8K is now available in all modes. Whether you’re in Follow Mode, Dolly Mode, or Side-by-Side Mode, you can now shoot in 8K resolution. Additionally, you can record at 30 frames per second or opt for 24 frames per second if you prefer a more cinematic look.
Exposure Enhancement
The second major update, in my opinion, is the exposure correction, which addresses a long-standing issue with the Hover X1 Pro Max. Previously, when using the flying camera, you had to rely heavily on the included ND filters to manage overexposure. Without them, videos often had blown-out highlights, especially in bright environments, like when navigating through trees or obstacles with bursts of light. The sky and other highlights were consistently overexposed, making filters almost a necessity.
However, using ND filters presented its own challenges. For a drone or flying camera that relies on its main camera to track you, filters could cause issues in shaded or darker areas. When the exposure dropped to negative one or two EV (underexposed), the camera struggled to maintain tracking accuracy. This was particularly problematic when using ND16 or other strong filters, as the drone often lost the subject in lower light conditions.
With the recent firmware update, the Auto-Exposure feature has been significantly improved, and the results are impressive. The drone now correctly exposes highlights and shadows, even in challenging lighting conditions. This enhancement minimizes the need for ND filters altogether. Whether you’re in shaded areas or navigating ultra-bright environments with sunlight peeking through trees, the drone consistently maintains proper exposure and tracks the subject seamlessly. Highlights are no longer blown out, and shadows remain detailed, ensuring your footage looks balanced and professional.
Also Read: HoverAir X1 Best Settings & Advanced Modes
Beacon Update
The third major update for the Hover Air Pro Max focuses on improving the Beacon connectivity. Since the drone’s release, the beacon had several issues, including frequent connection drops and limited functionality. For example, while the beacon is equipped with a microphone, the ability to sync audio to the drone, similar to using a smartphone, wasn’t enabled. While this feature remains unavailable, some improvements have been made in this update.
Now, you can adjust your Return-to-Home settings directly from the beacon. You can choose whether the drone should return to its original launch point or hover in place. One feature I’d like to see in the future and Hover Air has shared that it’s in the works is the ability for the drone to return directly to the beacon itself. Considering the beacon is essentially your remote, it makes sense for the drone to track its location and return to it automatically.
Another useful enhancement is the ability to navigate through the menu on the beacon by swiping. This allows you to adjust settings and parameters that weren’t previously accessible, making the beacon more functional and user-friendly.
Summary
The Hover Air Pro Max has seen some fantastic innovations, solidifying its position as an exceptional flying camera. Hover Air has done an incredible job, not just from a video quality standpoint but also in terms of its advanced tracking capabilities. The possibilities for content creation with this drone are virtually limitless, allowing you to explore and push the boundaries of your creativity.
You can operate the drone in multiple ways, whether by using the dedicated remote that can be paired with the beacon, or simply by using the drone itself in its current mode, controlled directly from the unit. This flexibility makes the Hover Air Pro Max a versatile tool for capturing stunning footage with ease.
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