DJI Unveils Osmo Action 6 with Revolutionary Variable Aperture Technology in China
Today, DJI has heralded the arrival of the Osmo Action 6 in China, showcasing the world’s inaugural variable aperture lens designed specifically for action cameras.
This innovative release, occurring just five days prior to the global announcement scheduled for November 18, 2025, heralds significant enhancements in both sensor size and overall performance.
The DJI Osmo Action 6 integrates an industry-leading f/2.0-f/4.0 variable aperture system, working in conjunction with a newly developed 1/1.1-inch square CMOS sensor.
This upgrade represents a pivotal advancement from the conventional fixed f/2.8 aperture that has been the hallmark of action cameras for years. This combination aspires to deliver a level of creative control reminiscent of DSLR cameras within a compact, resilient form factor.
The variable aperture functionality in the Osmo Action 6 marks a significant milestone for action camera innovation. As stated on DJI’s official product page, users can select the “appropriate aperture mode according to the shooting needs of various scenes.”
This mechanical iris adjustment fosters natural depth of field control and exposure management, eliminating the reliance on ND filters—an advantage previously exclusive to larger camera systems.
A majority of action cameras, such as the GoPro Hero 13 and prior DJI iterations, are constrained to fixed f/2.8 apertures. In contrast, the Osmo Action 6’s f/2.0 wide aperture captures twice as much light as f/2.8, markedly enhancing low-light shooting capabilities.
Conversely, the f/4.0 setting permits a broader depth of field for well-lit environments without necessitating additional filters.
Featuring a 1/1.1-inch sensor—surpassing the Action 5 Pro’s 1/1.3-inch sensor—the square format is engineered to support both horizontal and vertical video aspect ratios. This design offers increased flexibility during post-production and natively accommodates social media vertical formats.
The Osmo Action 6 is capable of capturing 4K video at up to 120 frames per second, with full-spectrum, high dynamic range video capabilities at 4K/60fps.
Additionally, a new SuperNight feature elevates ISO sensitivity to 51,200 for those challenging low-light scenarios. Multiple resolution and frame rate combinations, including 2.7K and 1080p formats, are also supported.
Among its cutting-edge functionalities is the “4K Free Cut” mode, which enables recording first and cropping later while allowing users to select from various aspect ratios such as 4:3, 16:9, and 9:16 during post-production.
With 50GB of internal storage and compatibility with microSD cards of up to 1TB, the camera accommodates diverse storage needs.
Image stabilization is enhanced through RockSteady 3.0+ technology, offering HorizonBalancing and HorizonSteady modes. Electronic stabilization operates across all video formats, although certain advanced features may impose frame rate constraints at elevated resolutions.
The device is powered by a 1,950 mAh Li-ion battery, with a theoretical operational duration of 240 minutes at 25°C (77°F) while recording in 1080p/24fps. DJI highlights the camera’s resilient design, stating it is stable from -20°C to 45°C, enabling creators to shoot confidently in various climates.
Fast charging via USB-C PD 3.0 allows for a full charge within approximately 52 minutes when utilizing a 30W or higher power adapter. An optional extended battery accessory is available, providing a robust 4,900 mAh capacity for longer shooting durations.
The OsmoAudio direct microphone connection system epitomizes a substantial audio enhancement. The camera can connect to two DJI microphone transmitters simultaneously, facilitating dual-source audio recording without a receiver. Additionally, three integrated microphones capture stereo audio in 48 kHz 16-bit AAC format.
Equipped with dual OLED touchscreens, the device features a 1.46-inch front display (331 ppi, 342×342 resolution) and a 2.5-inch rear screen (326 ppi, 400×712 resolution). Both displays boast a maximum brightness of 800 cd/m², with peak brightness capabilities reaching 1,000 cd/m², ensuring visibility under bright sunlight.
With an impressive waterproof rating of 20 meters (65.6 feet) without additional housing, the Osmo Action 6 can dive to 60 meters (196.8 feet) when paired with the optional waterproof shell accessory.
The camera’s dimensions are 72.8×47.2×33.1 mm (2.87×1.86×1.30 inches), and it weighs 149 grams (5.26 ounces)—marginally heavier than the Action 5 Pro at 146 grams.
Enhanced connectivity features include Wi-Fi 6 (802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax), supporting transfer speeds of up to 80MB/s, as well as Bluetooth 5.1 BLE protocol. The device operates across three frequency bands: 2.400-2.4835 GHz, 5.150-5.250 GHz, and 5.725-5.850 GHz.
Pricing in China begins at ¥2,998 (approximately $415 USD) for the standard set, inclusive of the camera, a 1,950 mAh battery, a two-way quick-disassembly adapter, and a USB-C fast-charging cable. Several bundle options are also available:
- Osmo Action 6 full combo: From ¥3,698 (~$512 USD)
- Motorcycle & Mountain Bike Ride Set: From ¥3,466 (~$480 USD)
- Walking Set: From ¥3,296 (~$456 USD)
- Road Car Ride Set: From ¥3,397 (~$470 USD)
Reports suggest that the standard combo will have a US retail price ranging from $379 to $399 when it enters the global market on November 18, 2025, at 12 PM GMT (7 AM ET).
DJI has also affirmed its market presence in the US through an American landing page, differing significantly from recent drone offerings like the Mini 5 Pro and Mavic 4 Pro, which remain outside official US distribution channels.
The introduction of a variable aperture in the Osmo Action 6 signals a transformative shift within the action camera landscape.
This innovative feature effectively addresses the longstanding dilemma of filter management in varying light conditions, granting greater creative autonomy to users.
Notably, no competitor—be it GoPro or Insta360—has successfully tackled this challenge until now. The mechanical iris empowers creators with genuine exposure control, free from the encumbrance of filter adjustments or electronic ND simulation compromises.
The timing of the Osmo Action 6’s launch is particularly strategic; with DJI having secured access to the US market amidst ongoing regulatory hurdles for its drone products, this allows the company to maintain its electronics footprint while adhering to the December 23, 2025, FCC deadline affecting drone compliance.
Moreover, the square sensor format illustrates DJI’s forward-thinking attitude toward usage beyond traditional action camera applications.
Social media influencers creating vertical content can now utilize the full resolution of the sensor without facing the drawbacks of cropped video, positioning the Action 6 as a viable competitor not only against the GoPro Hero 13 Black but also against smartphone videographers who might be exploring a sponsored dedicated action camera.
Historically, DJI’s technological advancements have seamlessly traversed across various product lines. The low-light enhancements introduced in Action 4 ultimately influenced the design of the Osmo Pocket series, while sensor upgrades have oftentimes migrated to DJI’s compact drones.
It remains to be seen whether variable aperture technology will feature in future iterations of the Osmo Pocket series or perhaps even be miniaturized for drone implementations. With the existing technology, it is merely a question of ‘when’ rather than ‘if.’
The projected US pricing of $379-399 (should the leaks hold true) places the Osmo Action 6 in a competitively advantageous position against the GoPro Hero 13 Black at $399.
With superior sensor technology, authentic aperture control, and 50GB of built-in storage, DJI’s offering boasts greater capabilities for comparable or lower pricing. Consequently, the action camera market is poised for a noteworthy escalation in competitiveness.
What are your thoughts on these recent developments from DJI and the drone industry? We welcome your insights in the comments section below.
Source link: Dronexl.co.
