Getting your new DJI Neo ready for its first flight can be exciting, but it can also be confusing when you're not sure which app you need to use. With different apps for various DJI products and the complexities of app stores, finding the correct software is a common hurdle.
This guide will clarify exactly which app you need to fly your DJI Neo, where to find it for your specific device, and what other software can enhance your experience.
30 Second Summary
- To operate the DJI Neo, you must use the official DJI Fly app, which provides flight controls, camera settings, and intelligent flight modes.
- For Android users, download the DJI Fly app directly from the official DJI website, as the app is no longer available on the Google Play Store.
- For Apple users, the DJI Fly app can be downloaded from the iOS App Store.
- Third-party flight control apps like Litchi are not compatible with the DJI Neo because DJI has not released the necessary software development kit (SDK) for developers.
- To edit your aerial footage after flying, you can use the LightCut app, which is a video editor officially recommended by DJI for its users.
Where To Download The DJI Neo App For Android & Iphone
The DJI Neo is controlled using the DJI Fly app, which is available for both Android and iPhone devices. iPhone users can download the app directly from the Apple App Store, where it's available as a standard download compatible with iOS 11.0 or above.
Android users, however, cannot find the app on Google Play Store due to its removal, and must instead download the DJI Fly APK directly from DJI's official website at dji.com/downloads, which requires Android 6.0 or higher. After downloading the APK file on Android, you'll need to confirm the installation and may need to approve installing apps from unknown sources in your device settings, then follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation
Use the Official DJI Fly App for All Flight Operations
To control the DJI Neo, the DJI Fly app is the one and only official application you will need. It is the command center for your drone, handling everything from the initial activation and firmware updates to in-flight controls and camera settings.
The app provides a live video feed from the drone's camera, displays critical flight telemetry like altitude and battery life, and gives you access to all the intelligent flight modes, including QuickShots. You cannot operate the DJI Neo without it.
Download the DJI Fly App from the DJI Website for Android Devices
For Android users, it is crucial to know that the DJI Fly app is not available on the Google Play Store. To get the app, you must visit the official DJI website's Download Center from your phone's web browser.
Navigate to the section for the DJI Neo, and you will find the direct download link for the Android APK file. Before installing, you may need to go into your phone's settings and allow installations from "unknown sources" to permit the app to be installed from outside the Play Store.
Download the DJI Fly App from the App Store for Apple Devices
For pilots using an iPhone or iPad, the process is much simpler. The DJI Fly app is readily available and can be downloaded directly from the iOS App Store.
Simply open the App Store on your Apple device, search for "DJI Fly," and download it as you would any other application. Ensure you are downloading the official app developed by DJI to guarantee compatibility and security.
Understand Why Third-Party Apps Are Not Compatible
While other DJI drones have support from popular third-party flight apps like Litchi or DroneDeploy, the DJI Neo currently does not support any third-party applications. This is because DJI has not released the necessary Software Development Kit (SDK) for the Neo.
An SDK is what allows external developers to create software that can communicate with and control the drone. Until DJI releases an SDK for the Neo, you are limited to using the official DJI Fly app for all flight operations.
Use the LightCut App for Editing Your Footage
While DJI Fly handles the flying, DJI officially recommends the LightCut app for video editing. LightCut is designed to integrate seamlessly with DJI drones like the Neo.
It allows you to wirelessly connect to your drone to quickly preview and download footage without having to transfer files manually. Its standout feature is the "One-Tap Edit" function, which uses AI to analyze your clips and automatically generate a polished, shareable video complete with music and effects, making post-production quick and effortless.
In summary, flying your DJI Neo is managed exclusively through the official DJI Fly app. It's essential for Android users to download it directly from DJI's website, while Apple users can find it on the App Store. Although third-party flight apps are not an option, you can enhance your creative workflow by using DJI's recommended LightCut app for fast and easy video editing. Sticking to this official software ecosystem ensures full functionality, safety, and the best possible experience with your drone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why doesn't the DJI Fly app show the DJI Neo in the model list?
If the DJI Neo is missing from the list of selectable drones, it's a strong indicator that your DJI Fly app is outdated. This is a common problem for Android users who may have downloaded an old version from a third-party source or have an old installation. The solution is to completely uninstall your current app and download the latest version directly from the official DJI website.
Why do I get a "No Internet Connection" error during activation?
This is a known issue where the DJI Fly app needs an internet connection to activate the drone but also requires you to be connected to the drone's Wi-Fi, which has no internet. If you encounter this activation loop, try connecting to your home Wi-Fi to start the process, then switch to the drone's Wi-Fi when prompted, and if it fails, switch back to your home Wi-Fi to complete the activation. Restarting your phone and the drone can also help.
How do I fix issues with downloading photos and videos to the app?
Some users experience a bug where the download icon for photos and videos is greyed out or the download fails. A common workaround is to temporarily disable your phone's cellular/mobile data connection. This forces the phone to use only the drone's Wi-Fi network for the transfer, which often resolves the issue.
The DJI Fly app keeps saying a firmware update is required. What should I do?
This can be a bug where the app repeatedly prompts for a firmware update even after a successful installation. First, ensure you have a stable internet connection and that all devices (drone, controller, battery) are sufficiently charged before starting the update. If the problem persists after a restart, check online forums or DJI's support page for information on recent firmware bugs, as it may be a known issue awaiting a patch.
What is FlySafe and why does the app constantly ask to update it?
FlySafe is DJI's built-in geofencing system that provides information about flight restrictions, such as those near airports or sensitive locations. The app prompts for frequent updates because this airspace data changes regularly. It is important to keep the FlySafe database updated to ensure you are flying legally and safely.
Why won't the app connect to my DJI Neo?
Connection issues can have several causes. First, ensure your controller is powered off if you are trying to connect via a phone, as the drone can only connect to one device at a time. Check that Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and location services are enabled on your phone. If it still fails, try restarting the drone and your phone, and use the "Forget This Network" option in your phone's Wi-Fi settings to clear the drone's old connection profile.
How can I check which version of the DJI Fly app I have?
You can find the app version within the DJI Fly app itself. Go to the "Profile" section, then tap on "Settings" or "About." The version number will be listed there. This is useful for troubleshooting, as having the latest version is critical for compatibility and performance.
Is the DJI Fly app on the DJI RC 2 controller the same as the one on my phone?
Yes, the software is fundamentally the same. The DJI RC 2 runs a customized version of Android with the DJI Fly app built-in. While the interface is optimized for the controller's screen, it offers the same core flight controls, camera settings, and intelligent modes as the version you use on your smartphone.
Can I use the LightCut app to fly the DJI Neo?
No, the LightCut app is strictly for video editing. It cannot be used for any flight control operations. Its primary purpose is to provide a fast and easy way to download and edit the footage you captured using the DJI Fly app.
Do I need a DJI account to use the DJI Fly app?
Yes, a DJI account is required for the initial activation of your DJI Neo. It is also necessary for updating firmware and syncing your flight records and logs across devices. While you may be able to fly in some limited capacity without being logged in, an account is essential for full functionality and to ensure your drone is properly registered and activated.
About the Author
Written by
Peter Leslie
Peter Leslie is a CAA-approved commercial drone pilot with 10+ years experience and over 10,000 flight hours. He holds the GVC and A2 CofC drone licences with full CAA Operational Authorisation. Peter is a member of ARPAS-UK, the UK's non-profit trade association for the drone industry. He founded HireDronePilot to connect UK businesses with qualified, insured drone operators.
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