Knowing how to update the Mavic 2 firmware using either the DJI Assistant 2 or Go 4 app is very important.
The DJI Mavic 2 updates contain fixes and improvements to your quadcopter. It is not just the Mavic 2 quadcopter and its components which the firmware upgrade fixes and improves.
DJI Assistant 2 Download For Mavic Pro. Download the latest DJI Assistant 2 software here to your PC or MAC for the Mavic Pro. The latest Assistant 2 version at the time of writing is 2 v1.2.4. The DJI Assistant software for Mac and Windows computers is different so make sure you download the. Please watch: 'DJI Modding Lounge' - This how to is showing how we enable debug mode on a Mac within DJI Assi. The following should be valid download links for various versions of DJI assistant 2. DJI Assistant 1.0.4.
These DJI Mavic 2 firmware upgrades also contain software for the the remote controller and batteries. So it is very important to install the latest Mavic 2 firmware on your quadcopter.
The instructions to updating the Mavic 2 firmware is the same for both the Mavic 2 Pro and Mavic 2 Zoom drones. However, there is a slight difference in the firmware update process between the Mavic 2 and the older original Mavic drone.
So far, DJI have released 5 firmware updates for the Mavic 2 quadcopter.
At the end of this post, you can read the firmware releases notes, including the issues fixed and improvements. It sure is very interesting to see what has been fixed and improved on.
There are 2 ways to upgrade the Mavic 2 quadcopter and remote controller.
You can update the Mavic 2 firmware using the DJI Go 4 app or the DJI Assistant 2 app using a computer.
Below are the instructions including videos for updating the Mavic 2 Pro and Mavic 2 Zoom with the DJI Assistant 2 and DJI Go 4 apps.
On a side note, if you are having issues where the Mavic disconnects from the Remote Control or DJI Go 4 app, then read our article on fixing Mavic Pro disconnects. While this is based on the older Mavic Pro, many of the troubleshooting tips will work on the Mavic 2 quadcopters. Updating the Mavic firmware is one of the steps in fixing any flying issues you may be experiencing.
How To Update DJI Mavic 2 Firmware
Important Notes On Updating Mavic 2 Firmware
- When using the DJI Assistant 2 software on a PC, it is not possible to update both the Mavic 2 quadcopter and remote controller as the same time. They are done separately
- Visit the Mavic 2 download page and install the DJI Go 4 App on your smartphone or the DJI Assistant 2 App on your PC, depending on which method of update you choose
- Make sure your Mavic 2, remote controller, smartphone or PC have at least 50% charge in them
- Ensure that you have a strong internet signal when downloading the Mavic 2 firmware
- It is a good idea to remove the propellers from the Mavic 2 quadcopter while doing the update
- The process of upgrading the Mavic 2 firmware will restart the quadcopter a few times during the update
- Never disconnect the Mavic 2 quadcopter or remote controller from the computer or smartphone during the firmware upgrade. If this happens, then the Mavic firmware update will fail. It could even corrupt the existing firmware. Then your Mavic 2 will not fly until the correct firmware has been installed
DJI Mavic 2 Firmware Update Using DJI Assistant 2
Here are the Mavic 2 Pro And Zoom update instructions using the DJI Assistant 2 software on a PC;
- Switch the Mavic 2 quadcopter off
- Connect the Mavic 2 quadcopter to a computer using the USB type A to type C cable
- Power on the Mavic 2 quadcopter
- Open the DJI Assistant 2 application and login to your DJI account
- Select “Mavic 2” and click on the “Firmware Updates” on the left panel
- Select the firmware version that you wish to update to and click on “Upgrade”
- Click on “Start Update”
- Wait for the firmware to be downloaded and the firmware update process will start automatically
- Restart the Mavic 2 quadcopter after the firmware update is complete
- If you have more than 1 battery, then you need to follow the above procedure to update each Mavic 2 battery
NOTE: The Mavic 2 firmware update may reset some main controller settings, such as the Return To Home Altitude and Maximum Flight Distance, to factory defaults. Before the update, take note of your preferred DJI GO 4 settings, and re-adjust them after the update to suit your preference.
Update Mavic 2 Remote Controller Firmware Using DJI Assistant 2
Use the same procedure to complete the Mavic 2 remote controller firmware update to the latest version as follows;
- Switch the Mavic 2 remote controller off
- Connect the Mavic 2 remote controller to a computer using a micro USB cable
- Power on the Mavic 2 remote controller
- Open the DJI Assistant 2 application and login to your DJI account
- Select “Mavic 2 RC” and click on the “Firmware Updates” on the left panel
- Select the firmware version that you wish to update and click on “Upgrade”
- Click on “Start Update”
- The downloaded and firmware update process will start automatically
- When the upgrade process has finished, a green “Update Complete” message will be shown
- Reboot the Mavic 2 quadcopter after the firmware update is complete
The DJI Assistant 2 software has plenty more features than updating the Mavic firmware. The DJI Assistant 2 Mavic software can be used to upload data, analyze black box logs, calibrate sensors, modify the Mavic and simulate flight. You can read more on the Mavic Pro Assistant 2 software here.
Notes on Updating the Mavic 2 Using DJI Assistant 2
- At the time of writing the Mavic 2 quadcopter and remote controller must be updated separately when using the DJI Assistant software.
This video shows you quickly how to upgrade the Mavic 2 quadcopter and remote controller to the latest firmware release using the DJI Assistant 2 app.
Update DJI Mavic 2 And RC Firmware Using DJI Go 4 App
Here are the instructions to update the Mavic 2 quadcopter and remote controller firmware to the latest release using the DJI Go 4 app;
- Connect your smartphone to the internet
- Switch off the Mavic 2 quadcopter and remote controller
- Connect your smartphone into the Mavic 2 remote controller
- Power on the Mavic 2 remote controller and then the quadcopter
- Launch the DJI Go 4 app on your smartphone or tablet device
- If an update is available, you will see “New Firmware Update Is Available”
- Click on the “New Firmware Update Is Available”
- Click on the “Download Now” button. The Mavic 2 firmware file will download and the upgrade will start automatically
- When the upgrade process has finished, a green “Update Complete” message will be shown
- Restart the Mavic 2 quadcopter after the firmware update is complete
- If you have more than 1 battery, then you need to follow the above procedure to update each Mavic 2 battery
Note: The firmware update may reset various main controller settings, such as the Return To Home Altitude and Maximum Flight Distance, to factory defaults. Before the update, take note of your preferred settings in the DJI GO 4 app, and readjust them after the update to suit your preference.
NOTE: If you require components for your quadcopter, then view this large selection of Mavic 2 parts, upgrades and accessories.
Here is an excellent video which shows you how easy it is to update the Mavic 2 Pro and Zoom firmware using the DJI Go 4 app.
DJI Mavic 2 Care Refresh
The Mavic 2 Care Refresh provides two replacement units for a small additional charge in one year and covers a wide variety of accidents, giving you greater peace of mind. Click on the below link to read the FAQ and price.
DJI Mavic 2 Firmware Update Releases Notes
Below are the Mavic 2 firmware versions released to date. It is very interesting to read about the new features, which have been added and also various issues, which were also fixed by updating the Mavic firmware software.
Mavic 2 Pro And Zoom Firmware Update Version v01.00.05.00
Release Date : 2019.09.16
- Added battery mounting detection. Aircraft is unable to take off if the Intelligent Flight Battery is not
mounted correctly. Note that DJI GO 4 v4.3.24 or later is required - Added altitude display to video captions
- Optimized auto discharging function for the Intelligent Flight Battery. Added ability to set when auto discharge will begin. The default setting is five days. Note that DJI GO 4 v4.3.24 or later is required
- Improved obstacle detection accuracy
- Improved accuracy of altitude for Exif photos
- Optimized Waypoints
Firmware Update Version v01.00.04.00
Release Date : 2019.04.17
- Added Dual Remote Controller mode (requires DJI GO 4 v4.3.16 or later)
- Fixed issue: in some photos, the GPS information displayed was incorrect when viewed on a computer
- Fixed issue: the gimbal acted abnormally after completing a QuickShot Rocket
Firmware Update Version v01.00.03.00
Release Date : 2019.01.24
- Added Waypoints (requires DJI GO 4 v4.3.12 or later)
- Enabled Lateral Vision Systems for Timelapse (see Mavic 2 Pro/Zoom User Manual for more information about obstacle sensing)
- Increased the altitude accuracy of Waypoints in Hyperlapse. When using Task Library to repeat a flight, make sure the takeoff altitude is the same
- Fixed issue: the remote controller’s operating time was shortened when used with some mobile devices
- Fixed issue: could not open Sphere panorama photos in Facebook
- Fixed issue: the Intelligent Flight Battery could not be charged when the environment temperature was between 5° and 10° C
Firmware Update Version v01.00.02.00
Release Date : 2018.11.22
- Increased the shutter speed to up to two seconds for Hyperlapse Circle and Course Lock (requires DJI GO 4 v4.3.4 or later)
- Added Task Library to Hyperlapse Waypoint (requires DJI GO 4 v4.3.4 or later)
- Added Precision Landing
- Enabled Lateral Vision Systems for Point of Interest 2.0 (see Mavic 2 Pro/Zoom User Manual for more details about obstacle sensing requirements)
- Added voice alert for ActiveTrack 2.0 when the subject is lost (requires DJI GO 4 v4.3.4 or later for iOS. Android version is coming soon)
- Added on-screen display when shooting in Hyperlapse and Panorama (requires DJI GO 4 v4.3.4 or later)
- Optimized the Vision Systems status display in DJI GO 4 (requires DJI GO 4 v4.3.4 or later)
Dji Assistant 2 Mac Horndis
Firmware Update Version v01.00.01.00
Release Date : 2018.10.11
- Added ability to make a selection and adjust the flight speed and duration for Hyperlapse (requires DJI GO 4 v4.3.2 or higher)
- Added ability to delete Hyperlapse and Panorama RAW footage in Playback (requires DJI GO 4 v4.3.2 or higher)
- Added ability to enable and disable Vision Systems by using remote controller’s C1 and C2 buttons (requires DJI GO 4 v4.3.2 or higher)
- Enabled Lateral Vision Systems for QuickShots sub-modes of Circle, Helix, and Boomerang. Refer to the Mavic 2 Pro/Zoom User Manual for more details about the requirements for obstacle sensing
- Optimized ActiveTrack 2.0
- Improved photo quality for Panorama
- Improved aircraft flight stability
Mavic 2 Pro And Zoom Firmware Update Version v01.00.00.00
Release Date : 2018.08.23
- Added Hyperlapse mode, including four sub-modes: Free, Circle, Course Lock, and Waypoints
- Added Dolly Zoom sub-mode for QuickShots (Mavic 2 Zoom only)
- Added Enhanced HDR and HyperLight shooting modes
- Added Super Resolution sub-mode for Panorama (Mavic 2 Zoom only)
- Added 2 x digital zoom (Mavic 2 Zoom only. Available when recording video in 1080p 24/25/30 fps)
- Added Emergency RTH and Emergency Landing for Low Battery RTH
- Adjusted the low battery warning level to 25%
- Improved stability for POI by optimizing the way the location of the subject is measured (Mavic 2 Zoom only)
- Fixed occasional issue in Panorama where the camera was unable to take a photo
- Improved the overall photo quality in Panorama
- Fixed the issue where the aircraft would move unexpectedly due to compass interference
- Fixed the occasional issue where the gimbal would not re-center after exiting QuickShots
- Fixed the AE flicker issue (Mavic 2 Pro only) and green point issue (Mavic 2 Zoom only)
- Improved the overall photo quality of both Mavic 2 Pro/Zoom
- Optimized the performance of the Vision Systems
- Added 2 m minimum flight altitude to ActiveTrack 2.0
- Fixed the occasional issue in QuickShots where the camera was unable to record a video
- Improved the overall video quality in QuickShots
Firmware Update Version v01.00.01.00
Release Date : 2018.10.11
- Added ability to make a selection to adjust the flight speed and duration for Hyperlapse (requires DJI GO 4 v4.3.2 or higher)
- Added ability to delete Hyperlapse and Panorama RAW footage in Playback (requires DJI GO 4 v4.3.2 or higher)
- Added ability to enable and disable Vision Systems using remote controller’s C1 and C2 buttons (requires DJI GO 4 v4.3.2 or higher)
- Enabled Lateral Vision Systems for QuickShots sub-modes of Circle, Helix, and Boomerang
- Optimized ActiveTrack 2.0
- Improved photo quality for Panorama
- Improved aircraft flight stability
DJI is undoubtedly the number one brand when it comes to consumer and professional-level drones. Year after year, they continue to release the best drones loaded with some of the most useful and innovative features. DJI also offers a host of apps and software to support the owners of their drones. One of the most useful software, albeit unfamiliar to many, is the DJI Assistant 2. In this article we go over all the useful functions of the DJI Assistant 2, which drone models it is compatible with, and where you can download it.
What is the DJI Assistant 2?
DJI Assistant 2 is a software for your desktop or laptop that allows you to tweak with your drone’s firmware and download flight logs, among other functions. It has versions for both Windows and Mac operating systems. It is a completely different piece of software to the DJI GO app for mobile devices.
Despite its usefulness, many owners of DJI drones do not even know that this software exists. It is currently available in 3 versions. Older drones such as the Spark and Mavic Pro are compatible with the standard DJI Assistant 2, while the newer Mavic drones and the Phantom 4 series have their own special versions. There are also dedicated DJI Assistant 2 versions for the Matrice 200, MG-1S, and the DJI Battery Station.
The best thing about the DJI Assistant 2 software is that it is free to download from the DJI website. For a DJI drone owner, there really is no reason not to download and install this software.
Compatible models and download links
Not all DJI drones or products are compatible with the DJI Assistant 2 software. Even if your drone was one of the compatible models, sifting through DJI’s numerous download pages can be quite a task. To make it easier for you, we have compiled a list of all compatible drones and products with links to their corresponding download pages.
Compatible models | Download page |
| DJI Assistant 2 V1.2.4 |
| DJI Assistant 2 for Mavic |
| DJI Assistant 2 for Phantom |
| DJI Assistant 2 for Matrice |
DJI MG-1S | DJI Assistant 2 for MG |
DJI Battery Station | DJI Assistant 2 for Battery Station |
DJI AeroScope | DJI Assistant 2 for Aeroscope |
| DJI Assistant 2 for Autopilot |
Connecting your drone
To use the software with your drone, it must be tethered to your desktop or laptop computer using a micro-USB cable. Once the drone has been connected, the DJI Assistant 2 will recognize the drone and its functions will be accessible.
Upgrading firmware
Dji Assistant 2 For Mac
The first option available to you after the drone has been recognized is for updating the drone’s firmware. This is a pretty straightforward process that allows you to update your drone’s firmware to the latest version available. If you are having problems with your drone which you suspect are due to its firmware, you also have the option of ‘refreshing’ your firmware – basically reinstalling the whole thing. You also have the option of downgrading your drone’s firmware to an older version.
Many owners of DJI drones probably know that you can also update your drone’s firmware using the DJI GO mobile app. Convenient as it sounds, we still prefer upgrading firmware via the DJI Assistant 2 because it’s much faster. The DJI Assistant 2 also provides links to the release notes of the firmware so you will be better informed of what you are upgrading to.
The DJI Assistant 2 software also has versions that can upgrade the firmware of DJI’s non-drone products, such as the DJI Goggles or Battery Station.
Downloading flight logs and Blackbox
The DJI Assistant 2 also offers the capability to download detailed flight logs onto your computer or to the DJI servers. However, flight logs downloaded via the Assistant 2 come out in .dat format and are essentially text files with a large amount of incomprehensible data. This is quite disappointing, considering that flight logs downloaded via the DJI GO mobile app are viewable using a very simple and intuitive graphical interface.
The DJI Assistant 2 does have a Flight Data Viewer module that seems to have been meant to simplify viewing of the flight data. However, it does not seem to be functioning as intended yet. There is a good workaround to this problem that involves the use of third-party websites (such as AirData) that can convert the .dat files into a more palatable format. Although it is disappointing that users need to resort to using third-party solutions, the output shows just how much data the .dat files contain – aside from position tracking, it stores data on battery temperature, battery levels, maximum altitude, and total distance travelled.
Even with the absence of a good flight data viewer, the .dat files are great for sending flight data logs to DJI for their analysis in case something goes wrong with your drone. The DJI Assistant 2 also makes this process easier with its convenient “Report Data File” button.
The versions of the DJI Assistant 2 for higher-end drones (such as the Mavic 2 series and Phantom 4 series) features more tabs in the flight log download module. This allows for discrete downloads of data specific from the drone’s navigation system, camera, or gimbal. This makes it easier to sift through data by eliminating all the unnecessary datasets.
DJI Assistant 2 also offers an option to download a Blackbox file, which also results in a complex .dat files. Similar to how a plane’s blackbox records all its pertinent data, the DJI Blackbox file probably contains much more information than what is recorded in the flight logs. This is probably not something that is designed for user analysis but is also a good method for reporting problems to DJI.
Calibrating vision sensors
Should your drone’s vision positioning sensor malfunction for any reason, then the DJI Assistant 2 provides a convenient vision calibration process that you can do right in front of your computer. Activating the Calibration module displays a grid on the screen. You then simply hold your drone’s sensors up to the screen and follow the instructions.
The calibration process must be done twice for each sensor. For reference, the older Mavic Pro has sensors in the forward direction and at the bottom, meaning it must go through the calibration process 4 times. More advanced models, such as the Mavic 2 Pro with omnidirectional sensors, will take a longer time to calibrate.
After the calibration process, the drone must be synced with the newly calibrated settings and restarted before they can take effect.
Flight simulator
The DJI Assistant 2 also has Simulator Lite module that allows you to fly a virtual drone in your computer screen using your remote controller. Although it’s a nice feature that allows you to fly a drone in a risk-free environment, the controller response feels a bit clunky and the simulator environment itself is rendered in low resolution. It offers a poor experience, but then again – this software is free. You likely will not spend a lot of time flying in this DJI Assistant 2 flight simulator.
For drone pilots geared more towards professional applications, a much better alternative is the DJI Flight Simulator. Released just this November 2018, the DJI Flight Simulator features amazing visuals, a sophisticated physics engine, and industry-specific training modules. It is compatible with almost all enterprise-level DJI drones but is also compatible with popular consumer models such as the Spark and Mavic Air.
Change WiFi settings
Finally, the DJI Assistant 2 allows you change the SSID name and password for drones that are WiFi-capable. This is a good move to keep the connection between your drone and smartphone more secure.
Final thoughts
Overall, the DJI Assistant 2 is a powerful and very useful software that is a must-download for all owners of DJI drones. The software is free and has a very small size, so there is no reason to pass up on it. The software still has a few issues on usability and functions that don’t appear to work they way they were meant to be, but we are confident that DJI will get around to fixing these problems soon.