The Antigravity A1 introduces a novel 360-degree drone category, capturing spherical video with twin cameras. While its footage quality impresses, the control system and high price draw criticism. Reviewer praises innovation but notes usability issues compared to DJI models.
Antigravity's A1 drone marks a fresh approach in aerial photography, using twin 1/1.28-inch sensors and ultrawide lenses to capture hemispherical views. The in-camera software stitches these into seamless spherical video, hiding the drone and propellers, similar to Insta360's selfie-stick removal. Maximum resolution reaches 8K at 30 frames per second, with 5.2K and 4K options for higher frame rates up to 100 fps. When reframed to flat video, output is capped at 4K or 1080p. Performance shines in bright conditions, though some softening and motion noise appear in challenging scenarios. The reviewer, experienced with camera drones for over a decade, calls the aerial 360 footage "very good," crediting Insta360's expertise despite the companies' distinct but tied brands.
Editing is straightforward via mobile or desktop apps. The desktop version offers precise control for trimming and quality adjustments, while the mobile app provides quick AI-assisted highlights ideal for social media shares.
Flight controls rely on goggles with dual micro LED screens and a motion-sensitive grip controller, akin to the DJI Avata 2 setup. However, the A1 feels sluggish and unresponsive, lacking the nimbleness of competitors. Safety features include low speed, obstacle sensors, and a return-to-home function, making it beginner-friendly. Battery lasts up to 24 minutes, and at under 250 grams, it avoids US registration and faces fewer UK restrictions.
The goggles are comfortable with adjustable focus, but the mandatory setup requires a spotter, separate battery, and glasses removal, complicating use. Standard bundles start at $1,599 or £1,219, nearly matching the DJI Air 3S combo, which offers superior image quality and intuitive twin-stick controls. The reviewer suggests future versions could add control options and lower costs to rival DJI. Overall, the A1 is "an intriguing and innovative product, but it's just a little too fussy and expensive to feel like a must-buy."