You may or may not have seen this week that a mandatory software update has come in to force for DJI Spark drones.

After 1st September 2017, users will not be able to fly their DJI Spark drones, unless the new software update is installed to the aircraft or its battery.

When we say ‘will not be able to fly’, we mean the aircrafts will literally be grounded. Yes, DJI is applying a remote ‘kill switch’. We’ll only know for sure come 1st September if DJI is able to do this.

The update addresses flight control issues of DJI’s smallest quadcopter drone - there have been reports of in-flight shutdowns.

DJI’s official statement can be found on the company website.

Of course, some people are uncomfortable with the thought of DJI’s ability to remotely apply a kill switch. Yet, the fact is that this a necessary safety measure and the best way to ensure the update is applied.

Better for a remote kill switch to be applied than for a drone to fall out of the sky and kill someone, right?

DJI Spark: software update additional improvements

In addition to ensuring the aircraft is air safe, the software update brings further enhancements to the device’s performance.

The update improves how the DJI Spark manages power and enables it to work with smart DJI Goggles that give owners an immersive view of what the drone films.

Other improvements include optimisation of the PalmLaunch function for better stability after takeoff, improved control accuracy in the QuickShot Drone mode and enhanced the compatibility of the remote controller when syncing up with new firmware updates.

Lok shared his thoughts on the DJI Spark before any safety concerns.

If you own a DJI Spark, you can access the software update through the Go 4 management app (which is used to configure and fly the craft), or via DJI’s Assistant 2 desktop software.

The ongoing development of drones continues to fascinate. Privacy modes were recently introduced in order for users to restrict who can see the videos they record.

We also reported about further possible safety measures too, including built-in parachutes and blades with added padding.

Who knows what issues will arise next? The debate goes on.