DJI Fly App Update 1.16.4: Enhanced Home Point Control Enhances Flight Safety

By Haye Kesteloo | March 7, 2025

The latest update to the DJI Fly app, version 1.16.4, was released on March 6, 2025, and introduces a critical feature aimed at improving safety and flexibility for drone operators. This update allows users to manually update the Home Point when prompted by the One-Tap Return-to-Home feature, addressing a long-standing need for operational flexibility during missions.

Understanding the Home Point Enhancement

The most notable enhancement in this version is the ability to manually adjust the Home Point. This setting indicates where a drone should return in emergency situations or when the return-to-home function is initiated. Previously, pilots were limited to the original Home Point set at takeoff, which could be hazardous if conditions changed, such as when a pilot had to move to a new location. Now, with the new feature activated by the One-Tap Return-to-Home notification, users can redefine this location in-flight, making it especially useful for dynamic scenarios like search-and-rescue operations.

This update reinforces DJI’s commitment to safety, seamlessly integrating with the app’s real-time flight data interface. Pilots can adapt quickly to evolving situations without interrupting their workflow, a change that is beneficial for both casual users and professional operators maneuvering through complex environments.

Technical Context and Performance Tweaks

Version 1.16.4 also addresses some unspecified issues and enhances the overall quality of the app. Despite the lack of specifics in DJI’s release notes—common practice that is often met with skepticism—such updates usually fix connectivity issues, camera performance glitches, or flight stability problems. The app supports a wide array of devices, including popular models like the DJI Neo, Mini 4 Pro, and Mavic 3 Pro, ensuring consistency and reliability across the line.

Since its debut in 2019 with the Mavic Mini, the DJI Fly app has transformed from a basic alternative to DJI Go into a comprehensive tool requiring Android 7.0 or later and iOS 13.0 or higher. It is best used on devices like the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra or iPhone 16 Pro Max, and its 1.11 GB size reflects its feature-rich ecosystem, including flight tutorials, an advanced editor, and access to the FlySafe database for compliance with regulations.

Industry Implications and Market Trends

This update indicates a broader trend within the drone industry, moving towards enhanced user control and safety. Competitors such as Autel Robotics and Skydio have also introduced similar navigation enhancements. However, DJI holds a substantial advantage due to its support of over 20 drone models. The Home Point adjustment feature is likely to appeal to professionals, such as surveyors and filmmakers, operating in unpredictable environments, potentially growing DJI’s share in the $10 billion commercial drone market.

While the lack of detail about fixed issues raises concerns, past updates that have provided specific fixes imply a possible reluctance from DJI to openly acknowledge previous shortcomings. Pilots should rigorously test this update, particularly in important missions, to ensure its stability.

Regulatory and Operational Considerations

Updating the Home Point mid-flight doesn’t negate regulatory requirements; rather, it supports adherence to them. In the U.S., FAA regulations dictate that drones must return to a safe designated location, and this feature enables pilots to align with such rules easily. European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) guidelines also highlight the need for flexible adjustments, making this update especially timely in light of tightening global regulations.

The infrastructure required for this update is minimal—pilots need a compatible device and stable internet access for the initial download. Nonetheless, effective use relies on accurate GPS data, which may present challenges in areas with weak satellite reception.

Future Outlook and DJI’s Direction

This Home Point feature highlights DJI’s intention to prioritize adaptive flight control in future updates. As drone operations expand into sectors like Urban Air Mobility and beyond-visual-line-of-sight missions, this level of adaptability will be crucial. The improvements also suggest preparations for upcoming models, potentially including the anticipated Mavic 4 Pro, though there has been no official confirmation yet.

Conclusion

This latest update marks a significant advancement; however, DJI’s vague release notes could undermine pilot trust. While users should appreciate the enhanced safety features, there is a clear need for more transparent communication from DJI. Further refinements are expected as user feedback continues to accumulate, especially from professional pilots putting the new features to the test in real-world scenarios.

The DJI Fly App remains fundamental for drone enthusiasts, and version 1.16.4 reinforces its value through meaningful innovation. Keep updating the app to utilize these new advantages and maintain a competitive edge in the ever-evolving drone landscape.

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