Here’s why I’m eyeing Insta360’s Antigravity A1 drone for 360-degree aerial shots
Most of the drones flying today in the US—and around the world—come from China, with DJI as the most common brand. But if you’re looking to get one, you might notice the shelves are almost bare. By July 2025, DJI drones have nearly disappeared from both their own site and major American retailers. A possible US ban, set for December 2025, might be the reason. Now Insta360 is stepping into the spotlight with its new drone brand, Antigravity.
Known for pushing creative limits with their action cameras, Insta360 gives content makers tools to stand out with shots that feel fresh and original. So what can we expect from them in the sky?
Talking about the new launch, Insta360 co-founder and VP of Marketing Max Richter says, “Antigravity represents the best of what can happen when we help incubate bold ideas and co-engineer new tech. It’s a fresh take on drone design that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible.”
Antigravity A1 design
My teammate Karina is in Berlin for IFA 2025 and stopped by Insta360’s booth. She snapped some shots of the Antigravity A1, which I’m sharing here. The drone fits in a backpack and sets up fast anywhere. That matters a lot for creators who want a strong tool to tell stories.
The 249-gram (8.8 oz) drone packs an 8K 360 camera, FPV goggles with an external screen so others can see the pilot’s view, and a controller that feels close to DJI’s FPV setup. The goggles pull you in and give the sense of flying inside the craft. Sure, you can hook up an FPV monitor or any screen with an external receiver, but the goggles change the whole vibe and bring you closer to the scene.
Weight plays another role here—drones under 250 grams don’t need FAA registration for recreational use in the US. DJI’s played in the same space for years with its Mini series—Mini 2, Mini SE, Mini 3, and the rest. All under 250 grams. That size keeps the skies simple, legal, and open to everyone.
Antigravity A1 ease of use
Insta360 says Antigravity drones suit just about anyone. Whether you’re hanging with your kids, heading out on a trip, or just getting into flying for the first time. The setup feels smooth and quick, so you can get in the air and start filming fast. Neither Insta360 nor Antigravity shares much about specs or features, especially when it comes to dodging obstacles. Still, based on Insta360’s other gear, we can take an educated guess at what to expect.
Insta360 always shows it knows how to build photography and videography gear that feels simple from the start. Just look at the X5. It might be the most straightforward 360 camera on the market.
If you’ve used the X5, you’ve already gotten close to flying. That action camera captures everything around you, turning any shot into something that feels like it came from above. Think floating shots, smooth POV clips, and more—without ever lifting off.
Antigravity A1 image quality
The Insta360 X5 action camera stands out with big image sensors that help it shoot sharp, clear footage. If Antigravity loads its drones with similar sensors, you’re in for crisp and rich visuals. Take the DJI Mavic 3 Pro, for instance. Its main camera comes with a massive sensor that pulls in tons of detail and handles all kinds of lighting way better than most other drones.
Before you go
Small drones for photo and video open up views you can’t get without expensive equipment.
I get the feeling Insta360 wants 360-degree footage to be the hook for Antigravity. DJI’s already packing their drones with just about everything, so Insta360 needs to swing with something bold—and 360 might be their wildcard.
