DJI Osmo 360 II adds replaceable lenses and better underwater video

DJI has released the Osmo 360 II, its second-generation 360 camera, almost one year after the original Osmo 360. The new model addresses two of the original camera’s main weaknesses: fixed lenses and poor underwater video quality.

The Osmo 360 II uses a replaceable lens design, allowing damaged lenses to be replaced instead of requiring a new camera. DJI also says the lenses have a tougher “Ultra-Hard” optical coating to improve scratch resistance.

Both cameras weigh 6.5oz/183g and offer 10m waterproofing. DJI discouraged underwater recording with the original model, but now encourages water-based video with the Osmo 360 II. The company has not provided details about the software, metering, or stitching changes behind the improvement.

The newer camera has a 2,150mAh battery, up from 1,950mAh, and the batteries are interchangeable between the two models. Dynamic range increases from 13.5EV to 14.5EV, while 8K recording rises from 50fps to 60fps. The maximum resolution for 360-degree timelapse doubles to 16K. Photo resolution remains up to 120MP, but HDR capture is new.

The Osmo 360 II launches on September 15 at around 25% more than the original. It is not available in the US. The original Osmo 360 has become cheaper in some regions.