Chinese tech brand DJI is arguably the biggest name in hobby-grade drones, but there’s a black cloud over the brand right now as it fights to avoid a law that would prevent it from selling drones in the United States.
Congress has expressed discomfort over the degree to which the Chinese government may have influence over technology companies like DJI. After seven years of discussion, the U.S. Senate passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) on December 23, 2024. This act includes an amendment requesting a review from an “appropriate national security agency” to prove that DJI does not share user data from American drones with the Chinese government. The deadline for this review is December 23, 2025—just over two months from now.
In response, DJI published a statement last December on their blog, Viewpoints, and then followed up with an open letter in March essentially saying, “Bring it on. We’ve got nothing to hide.”
### What Does This Mean for DJI Owners and Potential Buyers?
The threat of a DJI ban has created a lot of uncertainty for drone enthusiasts. If you own a DJI drone or have been thinking about buying one, it’s not fully clear how the ban would impact your ability to use it.
Under current FCC rules, the U.S. government would prevent DJI from selling new drones in the country for the foreseeable future. However, existing DJI drone owners would still be able to continue using models purchased before December 23, 2025.
### Should You Hurry to Buy a DJI Drone?
On the one hand, DJI still makes some of the best drones on the market. Its latest top-of-the-line model started appearing at U.S. retailers in late September, after launching in other territories six months earlier. American drone enthusiasts have been eagerly awaiting access to this highly anticipated new model all year.
On the other hand, buying now carries risks. Even for current owners, a ban could mean the end of firmware support, shortening the effective lifespan of your drone. There’s also concern that the NDAA’s language could lead to further restrictions on drones already in use.
### Is There Hope for an Extension?
Of course, there is a third possible outcome: Congress could extend the deadline on the exemption, theoretically allowing DJI to continue selling and supporting its drones for a while longer.
Given the current government shutdown and ongoing negotiations between the U.S. and China over tariffs, a delay seems feasible—if not likely. Similar extensions have happened before. For example, TikTok received extensions while fighting a government ban, allowing it time to find an American buyer. DJI could potentially use a delay to work toward compliance.
### What’s the Bottom Line?
Drone pilots are thrill-seekers—but are you also a gambler? If you’re ready to buy a DJI drone, the safe bet is to do it now. However, if you’re only considering buying one, you face a conundrum.
If you’re optimistic that both DJI and the U.S. government will complete their due diligence by December 23 and that DJI will retain the right to sell drones in the U.S., you might consider waiting.
Keep in mind, DJI drones aren’t cheap—the Mavic 4 Pro, for instance, costs over $2,700—and they are a worthwhile investment. If DJI does end up on the U.S. banned list come December, American consumers will lose access to some of the best hobby-grade drones in the world.
If you can’t bear the thought of missing out, you have two months to decide. After that, your chance to own a DJI drone in the U.S. might take off without you.
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https://www.popularmechanics.com/technology/gear/a69045878/why-this-holiday-season-may-be-last-call-for-dji-drones/