How to Update Drone Firmware

Updated: Jun 27, 2022 11:14 PM
How to Update Drone Firmware

Nobody likes waiting for their device to update. Unfortunately, updates are also necessary with even the best drones. But, fear not! We will show you how to update drone firmware so you can keep your device up to date. The process is easy and takes only a few simple steps.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • Updating a drone firmware is necessary to ensure flight safety and that your device’s mechanics are working without error.
  • Most firmware updates are achieved by using a connected device to access the drone’s app.
  • Updates take about 30 minutes, during which the drone might make noises, move, or power on and off.

Keep reading, so you can get past the updates and on more interesting affairs like how to film with a drone.

How to Update Drone Mobile Firmware

Whether you’re looking for one of the leading travel drones on the market or a cheap one to use as you fumble your way through learning how to use a drone camera, you’ll have to go through firmware upgrades.

Having the correct firmware version is crucial to your machine’s health and functionality. Firmware deals with the information processes of the mechanical hardware of your devices. For example, firmware updates can remove bugs that might cause glitches in things like the motor, power processor, or battery.

Insider Tip

When updating your drone, make sure the battery on your drone, remote controller, and phone are fully charged before beginning the update process.

These updates need to be done as soon as possible. But the good news is that the update process is accomplished right from your mobile device. Also, for another exciting read about drone technology, you can check out our article on how to charge a drone battery without a charger.

STEP 1 Checking for Drone Update

  1. Power on your drone and remote controller to see if there has been a new firmware release.
  2. Connect your mobile device to your drone’s WiFi.
  3. Once connected, go to your drone’s mobile app (whether this is DJI or another type).
  4. If there’s a firmware update available, you should see a banner that says so on the home screen.

STEP 2 Prepare the Drone

  1. Remove the propellers from the drone to prevent an accidental takeoff during updates.

STEP 3 Download the Latest Firmware File

  1. Hit “Download” on your mobile app to download the new firmware file.
  2. Connect your phone back to your home WiFi network.
  3. Go back to the mobile app’s update screen. It should say that it has begun the download process.
  4. Ensure not to turn off the drone, controller, or exit the app during the download stage.

STEP 4 Begin the Firmware Update Process

  1. Once the update download completes, reconnect your phone to the drone’s WiFi network.
  2. Press “Start Update.” Again, make sure not to turn off the app or drone/controller during this.
  3. Your drone might make beeps or noises or even turn off on its own during this process. Don’t touch the drone even if it does this.

STEP 5 Complete Updates

  1. Once the new firmware is installed, press “Complete.”
  2. Now, power off the drone and remote control. Wait a couple of seconds, then power them back on.
  3. Put the propellers back on.
  4. Check the mobile app. If the update banner is gone on your screen display, you know you have successfully completed the update.

Warning

Make sure that you have a stable internet connection during the firmware update process.

F.A.Q.S

When should you update your drone’s firmware?

You’ll receive an alert, or it will appear on the home screen of your drone’s mobile app.


What should I do if my firmware update fails?

Update failures aren’t uncommon. Delete the downloaded file and try the process again.


What should I expect during a firmware update?

You may hear noises (such as beeps) or see the gimbal move or go limp. There also might be flashing lights.


STAT: Most firmware updates take between 10 and 30 minutes, depending on your WiFi connection. (source)

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