- Dual-lens & dual-screen design: Leaked images show a prototype with two camera sensors and front-and-back displays, a first for the Pocket series techradar.com techradar.com. This could enable new shooting angles and selfie framing, albeit likely raising the price from the Pocket 3’s ~$519 base cost.
- 1-inch Hasselblad-tuned sensor: Rumors point to a 1-inch CMOS sensor (~12MP) co-engineered with Hasselblad’s color science, for richer color and better low-light performance notebookcheck.net citymagazine.si. Don’t expect a crazy 100MP resolution – credible reports suggest DJI will prioritize image quality over sheer megapixels notebookcheck.net.
- 4K 240fps & pro video features: Spec leaks claim 4K at 240fps slow-mo, plus 3K/120fps vertical video, 10-bit D-Log M color, and HDR recording citymagazine.si. Experts caution that 4K/240 is extremely ambitious for a pocket camera (heat and crop factors may force compromises) citymagazine.si, so take that with a grain of salt.
- Bigger touchscreen & better controls: A 2.5-inch OLED touchscreen (up from 2.0″ on Pocket 3) is expected, offering improved brightness and touch responsiveness bikmantech.com. DJI may also refine ergonomics with tactile buttons and even a built-in joystick for gimbal control – a welcome throwback for precise manual framing bikmantech.com.
- Next-gen stabilization & tracking:ActiveTrack 7.0 is rumored to deliver smarter, faster subject tracking (faces, eyes, etc.), building on the already impressive 6.0 in Pocket 3 bikmantech.com. Combined with enhanced 3-axis gimbal stabilization and improved EIS, the Pocket 4 could capture ultra-steady, cinematic footage even on the move bikmantech.com bikmantech.com.
- Release date & price buzz: Speculation ranges from a late 2025 launch to early 2027, reflecting DJI’s roughly 3-year product cycle bikmantech.com citymagazine.si. No FCC filings or official teasers have surfaced as of mid-2025, hinting that a 2025 release might be optimistic citymagazine.si. Price-wise, pundits predict around $699 for the base model (and ~$799 for a Creator Combo) given the upgrades bikmantech.com – a jump from Pocket 3’s original $519 tag techradar.com.
A New Pocket-Sized Powerhouse on the Horizon
DJI’s Osmo Pocket series has revolutionized handheld vlogging, packing a gimbal-stabilized camera into a coat-pocket device. Now excitement is soaring for the DJI Osmo Pocket 4, which leaks suggest will be the most radical upgrade yet. Early images and specs – from reliable DJI tipsters on X (Twitter) and Weibo – hint at features that could redefine on-the-go cinematography techradar.com citymagazine.si. While DJI remains mum officially, the rumor mill paints a tantalizing picture of what this “camera that fits in your palm” might offer content creators next.
Why all the hype? For one, the current Osmo Pocket 3 (launched Oct 2023) is already regarded as “class-leading” in its category techradar.com. TechRadar gave it 4.5/5 stars and noted it still sits atop many best vlogging camera lists even two years later techradar.com. The Verge even called the Pocket 3 “almost everything I wanted my iPhone camera to be” theverge.com. In DJI’s own words, “the Osmo Pocket 3 is one of the top-selling products in [our] history” due to word-of-mouth among creators theverge.com. Expectations are sky-high for the Pocket 4 to push the envelope further – and if the leaks hold true, DJI just might deliver. Below, we break down all the latest rumors and credible leaks about the Pocket 4, from its dual-camera design and Hasselblad partnership to release date whispers and how it stacks up against previous models and rivals.
Leaked Design: Dual Cameras and Dual Screens
One of the biggest surprises from the leaks is that the Pocket 4 may sport two camera lenses/sensors instead of one – a first for the series techradar.com. Seasoned leaker @Quadro_News shared a blurry photo of a “Pocket 4 prototype” showing an extra lens on the device techradar.com. Soon after, another reputable source (Fixed Focus Digital on Weibo) posted images suggesting a screen on both the front and back of the camera techradar.com techradar.com. In other words, DJI could be adding a selfie display on the front and a larger touchscreen on the back.
Such a design overhaul would address two long-standing user wishes: easier framing when vlogging toward oneself (thanks to a front-facing preview) and a more comfortable view when shooting normally (with a bigger rear display). The Pocket 3 introduced a 2.0-inch rotating OLED screen, a big step up from the tiny fixed screen on Pocket 2 notebookcheck.net. Rumors say Pocket 4 will go further with a 2.5-inch touch display that’s brighter for outdoor use bikmantech.com. Additionally, DJI might bring back more physical controls for better ergonomics – leaks mention more tactile buttons and even an integrated mini-joystick for precise gimbal movement bikmantech.com. (The Pocket 2 had a detachable joystick accessory, which Pocket 3 dropped in favor of touchscreen controls, to mixed reception.)
As for that mysterious dual-camera setup, speculation abounds on its purpose. It could allow multi-focal-length shooting (like having a wide-angle lens and a telephoto in one device, akin to a smartphone’s dual cameras) to “expand the types of shots that can be captured” techradar.com. Another theory is a form of 360° or 180° capture by combining two lenses’ footage – though DJI just launched a separate Osmo 360 camera in mid-2025, making a full 360º Pocket less likely notebookcheck.net. More plausibly, a second sensor could assist with depth mapping or low-light photography, or simply boost image quality via computational fusion. At this stage, the leaked images are too low-res to discern the lens specs notebookcheck.net, so we’re left guessing. What’s clear is that dual lenses and dual screens would mark a major evolution of the Pocket’s hardware, signaling DJI’s intent to entice even Pocket 3 owners to upgrade notebookcheck.net.
Hasselblad in Your Pocket: Camera & Lens Upgrades
Another headline-grabbing rumor is that the Osmo Pocket 4 will feature Hasselblad camera technology – effectively bringing the prestigious camera brand’s expertise (which DJI has leveraged in its drones) to the Pocket line. According to NotebookCheck, the Pocket 4 is tipped to be the first in the series with “premium co-branding” from Hasselblad, similar to DJI’s flagship Mavic 4 Pro drone notebookcheck.net. In practice, this likely means Hasselblad’s Natural Color Solution (HNCS) for more accurate colors and image tuning, rather than an actual Hasselblad-manufactured lens on such a tiny device citymagazine.si. DJI has owned a stake in Hasselblad since 2015 and recently increased it, strengthening this collaboration notebookcheck.net. The Mavic 3/4 Pro drones proudly tout Hasselblad color science; the Pocket 4 might do the same on a smaller scale.
In terms of core camera specs, multiple sources converge on a 1-inch type CMOS sensor – the same large sensor size used in the Pocket 3, which dramatically improved low-light performance and depth of field over the 1/1.7″ sensor of Pocket 2 notebookcheck.net. However, the Pocket 4’s sensor might be tuned for ~12MP stills (down from Pocket 3’s effective 20MP), possibly trading resolution for larger pixels and better dynamic range citymagazine.si. That might sound like a downgrade on paper, but remember: the Pocket series is optimized for video, where 4K is only ~8.3MP per frame. A 12MP sensor with big pixels could excel for 4K video and low-light imagery, especially with Hasselblad’s color tuning in play notebookcheck.net.
Speaking of video, the rumored capabilities are mouth-watering: 4K at 240 frames per second for ultra slow-motion citymagazine.si. That’s double the Pocket 3’s already impressive 4K 120fps, and would put the Pocket 4 in rare territory even compared to pro cameras. Is it realistic? Experts are skeptical. As City Magazine points out, the Pocket 3 had to crop its 1″ sensor heavily to manage 4K/120fps (to reduce the area readout) and even then it pushes the thermal envelope citymagazine.si. Achieving 4K/240 may require serious compromises – think even tighter cropping (reducing field of view), lower bitrates, or very short burst durations to avoid overheating citymagazine.si. It’s not impossible, but unless DJI has a breakthrough in cooling or sensor readout speed, 4K/240 might be more marketing wish-list than a practical reality. We might see a “spec sheet” 240fps mode that comes with caveats. More plausible is a 3K/120fps vertical video mode (as rumored) where the sensor area is reduced for phone-friendly portrait shooting citymagazine.si.
Even if true 4K/240 is iffy, the Pocket 4 is expected to retain all the pro video features of its predecessor: 10-bit color depth, D-Log M flat profile, HDR video, and hopefully even higher bitrate encoding. Combined with Hasselblad color science, this means the Pocket 4 could deliver footage that is easier to grade and more cinematic straight out of camera – a boon for professional creators who demand post-production flexibility.
Lens-wise, aside from the possibility of multiple lenses, we anticipate a fast, wide aperture similar to Pocket 3’s (f/2.0) to maintain good low-light capability. There’s no word yet on focal length, but Pocket 3 had a roughly 20mm equivalent wide field of view. If Pocket 4 has two lenses, one might be an ultra-wide (~15mm eq.) or a mid-tele (~50mm eq.) to give users creative options. This would mirror trends in action cams and phones, where multi-lens setups cover various perspectives. Again, this is informed speculation – the leaks don’t confirm the exact lens configurations beyond the presence of an extra sensor notebookcheck.net.
Performance Upgrades: Stabilization, Tracking & Battery Life
Aside from raw image quality, DJI is reportedly supercharging the Pocket 4’s stabilization, tracking, and battery – the unsexy but crucial aspects of a vlogging camera’s performance.
Stabilization: All Pockets have a mechanical 3-axis gimbal, which is a huge advantage over GoPros and phones (they rely on electronic stabilization). For the Pocket 4, industry whispers suggest enhanced gimbal motors and smarter algorithms for even smoother footage bikmantech.com. Combined with improved EIS (Electronic Image Stabilization), the goal is rock-steady shots even during intense motion like running or action sports bikmantech.com. The Pocket 3 already excels here, but Pocket 4 could further reduce micro-jitters and handle larger bumps with grace. This would cement its status as the go-to device for walk-and-talk vloggers and adventure filmmakers who demand gimbal-like smoothness without carrying a separate rig. DJI might also refine its HorizonSteady feature (horizon leveling) if supported, ensuring your video stays level even if the camera tilts.
ActiveTrack 7.0: DJI’s subject tracking AI gets an expected boost. Pocket 3 introduced ActiveTrack 6.0, which was quite adept at locking onto faces or objects and keeping them in frame. ActiveTrack 7.0 is rumored to be smarter and faster, with better predictive algorithms to track moving subjects bikmantech.com. It may leverage new AI to recognize subjects more intelligently (people, pets, etc.) and recover tracking if they briefly go out of frame. For solo creators, this is a killer feature – imagine being able to set the Pocket 4 down and record yourself moving around, trusting that it will smoothly pan/tilt to follow you with professional-level framing. Some leaks even float the idea of gesture control (as seen on DJI’s new Osmo Mobile 7 gimbal) theverge.com, which could let you start/stop recording or tell the camera to track you with a hand signal – though that might be wishful thinking. At minimum, autofocus is expected to improve as well, possibly with better face/eye detection and low-light focusing so the camera doesn’t “hunt” as much in tricky conditions bikmantech.com.
Battery & Charging: Vloggers know the pain of limited battery life – and the Pocket 3’s roughly ~90 minutes of 4K recording per charge is decent but not exceptional. Good news: the Pocket 4 is expected to squeeze in a larger battery or more efficient power management. Rumors mention a modest increase in weight to ~190g (Pocket 3 was ~170g), partly due to a bigger battery bikmantech.com. The result could be longer runtimes than 90 min, perhaps crossing the 2-hour mark of continuous use bikmantech.com. Even more impressive, DJI might implement faster charging with a new battery tech or higher wattage input – one leak claims a full charge could take as little as ~25 minutes bikmantech.com. (Pocket 3’s fast charge is about 30+ minutes with 15V chargers.) If true, that rapid top-up would be a game-changer in the field: creators could refill the Pocket 4’s battery during a short break and keep shooting on marathon days. Additionally, improved power efficiency and heat dissipation are on the wish list, since high-res recording generates a lot of heat in the Pocket’s tiny body. Some sources say the Pocket 4 will have better thermal management to sustain demanding modes (like that 4K/240fps, if it exists) without overheating citymagazine.si.
Audio and accessories: While not the flashiest upgrade, we’d be remiss not to mention audio. The Pocket 3 already had a 4-mic array and DJI’s wireless Mic 2 support (in the Creator Combo). Expect the Pocket 4 to double down on audio integration – possibly with built-in support for DJI’s newer Mic Mini and Mic 3 systems, so you can capture crisp sound wirelessly theverge.com theverge.com. The Creator Combo bundle is rumored to pack a high-quality wireless microphone by default bikmantech.com. Other accessories likely included or available: a small tripod grip, wide-angle lens adapter, ND filter set, a waterproof case, and maybe an external battery handle for extended shooting bikmantech.com bikmantech.com. In short, DJI seems to be crafting a comprehensive ecosystem so that out of the box, the Pocket 4 can handle anything from an underwater adventure to a live-stream or a cinematic vlog.
How Does Pocket 4 Compare to Pocket 2 and 3?
With two iterations behind it, the Pocket series has come a long way since the original Osmo Pocket (2018) and Pocket 2 (2020). The Pocket 3 (2023) in particular was a huge leap forward, so how much further can Pocket 4 go? Let’s put the rumored specs in context:
- Camera Sensor: Pocket 2 used a 1/1.7″ 64MP Quad Bayer sensor (effective ~16MP stills). Pocket 3 jumped to a 1″ sensor (~20MP), vastly improving image quality and low-light shooting notebookcheck.net. Pocket 4 will likely stick with a 1″ sensor too, but tuned to ~12MP output for better pixels and dynamic range citymagazine.si. It’s less about resolution, more about Hasselblad-enhanced color and cleaner footage. Essentially, Pocket 4 should meet or exceed Pocket 3’s pro-level image quality, which already blew Pocket 2 out of the water in dark scenes and overall clarity.
- Lenses: Pocket 2 had one lens (~20mm f/1.8). Pocket 3 also one lens (~20mm f/2.0) but much sharper and with wider dynamic range thanks to that sensor. Now, Pocket 4 might have two lenses, which neither predecessor did techradar.com. If that pans out, expect far more versatility – e.g., one normal wide view and one ultra-wide or tele for creative angles. Even if it remains a single lens, the rumored image improvements (like less distortion, Hasselblad tuning) mean it will outperform Pocket 3’s lens, which already was a big step up from Pocket 2’s optics.
- Display & Controls: Pocket 2’s built-in screen was a tiny 1-inch rectangle, with an optional attachable control wheel or smartphone link for better viewfinding. Pocket 3 introduced a rotatable 2-inch touchscreen – a night-and-day improvement for usability. Pocket 4 is said to have an even larger 2.5-inch screen plus a secondary front screen techradar.com, making it much more user-friendly for both front-facing and rear-facing shooting. That’s a generational leap Pocket 2 → 3 → 4. Also, the return of a joystick and more buttons on Pocket 4 would address some complaints that Pocket 3 relied too much on touch menus bikmantech.com. In essence, Pocket 4 could combine the best of both worlds: the modern big touchscreen of Pocket 3 and the physical controls/modularity of Pocket 2’s era.
- Video & Frame Rates: Pocket 2 maxed out at 4K/60fps. Pocket 3 doubled that with 4K/120fps slow-mo and added 10-bit HDR. Now Pocket 4 teases 4K/240fps (4× slower than Pocket 2) citymagazine.si, plus possibly higher resolution slow-mo in vertical mode. Even if the full 240fps doesn’t materialize, any improvement here keeps the Pocket line ahead of typical action cameras. Pocket 3’s footage is already gorgeous and super-smooth; Pocket 4 aims to be even more cinematic, closing the gap further between a tiny gimbal cam and a larger professional setup.
- Stabilization & Tracking: All Pockets have had 3-axis stabilization – a constant strength. But each generation refines it. Pocket 2’s gimbal was great; Pocket 3’s was even better and added HorizonBalancing, etc. The rumored ActiveTrack 7.0 on Pocket 4 would surpass Pocket 3’s 6.0 in keeping subjects locked in frame bikmantech.com. So if you found Pocket 2 occasionally lost you, and Pocket 3 rarely did, Pocket 4 should basically never let you out of its sight. Plus, any incremental gimbal improvements mean you can push the camera movement further (run faster, mount it on vehicles, etc.) and still get butter-smooth video – something Pocket 2 might struggle with, but Pocket 4 could handle with ease.
- Audio: Pocket 2 had one built-in mic (plus an optional wireless mic in the Creator Combo). Pocket 3 built in four mics and better audio processing, and supported DJI Mic seamlessly. Pocket 4 will likely match or improve the 4-mic setup and include a wireless mic in the box (per rumors) bikmantech.com. Expect clearer sound and better wind noise reduction than Pocket 2, making on-camera dialogue crisper.
- Battery: Pocket 2 could run about ~70 minutes. Pocket 3 extended to ~90 minutes, with faster charging (~30 min). Pocket 4 might push past 100–120 minutes on a charge with even faster ~25 min recharges bikmantech.com. For a vlogger, that reduction in downtime compared to Pocket 2 (which took longer to charge and died quicker) is significant. It means more shooting and less waiting or swapping devices.
In summary, Pocket 3 was already a “significant upgrade over the Pocket 2” in almost every respect techradar.com. The Pocket 4 is shaping up to be another big leap, potentially even a bigger generational jump than 2→3 if dual cameras and these advanced features come true. It’s as if DJI looked at every aspect – sensor, lens, screen, stabilization, AI, battery – and aimed to elevate it. Of course, these are unofficial specs, but the pattern suggests evolution where it counts: better image quality, easier use, and more creative capabilities than any prior Pocket.
Release Date: When Can We Expect the Pocket 4?
DJI hasn’t announced anything yet, but that hasn’t stopped the tech community from debating the Osmo Pocket 4’s release timeline. The truth is, signals are mixed:
- Historical cycle: DJI released Pocket 1 in late 2018, Pocket 2 in late 2020, and Pocket 3 in late 2023 – roughly a 3-year cadence. If they stick to that, a Pocket 4 would land around late 2026 bikmantech.com. Some insiders indeed point to “late 2026 or early 2027” as the most likely window, given DJI’s past refresh rhythm bikmantech.com. This cautious view is bolstered by the fact that the Pocket 3 is still relatively new and selling well, so DJI isn’t under pressure to rush out a successor bikmantech.com.
- Optimistic rumors: On the other hand, a few rumors have floated an accelerated timeline, suggesting DJI could surprise us with Pocket 4 as early as late 2025. For instance, sources cited by MyLensLogic speculated an announcement in September 2025 with a release by end of 2025 or Q1 2026, revising earlier beliefs of a much later launch mylenslogic.com. Why the hurry? It could be driven by competition (new GoPros, Insta360 cams) or simply DJI having the tech ready sooner.
- Current evidence: As of now (Q3 2025), there have been no official teasers, no FCC filings, and no regulatory leaks specifically for a “Pocket 4” device citymagazine.si. Typically, DJI products show up in databases (FCC, CE) a few weeks before launch, and the Pocket 3’s filings were noticed shortly before its announcement in October 2023 citymagazine.si. The absence of such hints for Pocket 4 suggests that it’s not right around the corner. Additionally, DJI has been busy launching other Osmo devices in 2025 (like the Osmo 360 and Osmo Nano cameras) which did go through FCC approval citymagazine.si – so if Pocket 4 were imminent, we’d expect similar paperwork by now.
- DJI’s strategy: DJI isn’t strictly tied to a calendar; they tend to release a new Pocket “when there is enough progress” to justify it citymagazine.si. Pocket 3 was a big jump, so DJI may wait until they can truly wow us again. If the leaked features are proving hard to implement (e.g., engineering dual cams and high-FPS video in a small body might need more time), they could delay until 2026/27 to get it right. Conversely, if these leaks are surfacing now, it could indicate the device is deep in development. TechRadar notes that unless DJI fast-tracks it by end of 2025, “we might have to wait until 2026 for the Pocket 4”, given the prior 3-year gap techradar.com.
In short, keep expectations in check. The safest bet is that 2026 is the target – aligning with the three-year pattern and current lack of regulatory clues. But don’t entirely rule out a late 2025 surprise if DJI decides to accelerate (perhaps to capitalize on holiday season or counter a competitor launch). If nothing else, the recent leaked prototype images confirm that Pocket 4 is indeed in the works techradar.com. So whether it’s 3 months or 3 years away, it’s coming. As always, official info from DJI (or an FCC filing) will be the best indicator of timing – until then, it’s educated guesswork. Potential buyers can take solace that the Pocket 3 remains an excellent option right now (and likely through 2025) for those who can’t wait, while the truly patient can watch the rumor space heat up as development progresses.
Price Expectations: Will It Cost You More?
With all these high-end upgrades rumored, pricing is a hot topic. The DJI Pocket line has always been premium yet relatively accessible. The Pocket 2 launched around $349 ($499 with Creator Combo), and the Pocket 3 jumped to ~$519 base ($669 Combo) – reflecting its significant hardware improvements. For the Osmo Pocket 4, early signs point to another price hike, perhaps substantially so.
Several industry observers predict the Pocket 4 will start around $699 (USD) for the standard package bikmantech.com mylenslogic.com. The Creator Combo (which typically includes extras like the wireless mic, tripod handle, wide lens, etc.) might land about $799 bikmantech.com. This would position the Pocket 4 firmly in high-end territory, comparable to a decent mirrorless camera or a fully-decked GoPro kit.
Why the jump? Simply put, dual cameras and dual screens aren’t cheap. Adding an extra image sensor (and possibly another lens module) plus a second display increases manufacturing costs. TechRadar muses that two screens alone “might bump the price up from $519” of the Pocket 3’s launch price techradar.com. If we factor in the rumored Hasselblad co-branding (licensing), larger battery, and more advanced internals, a ~$150+ premium over the Pocket 3 isn’t shocking. In fact, U.S. buyers have already seen the Pocket 3’s price rise to $619 and even $799 (after tariff-related hikes) theverge.com – meaning consumers are somewhat primed for a higher cost.
However, there’s a counterargument: competition. The Pocket 4 will face off against flagship action cameras (GoPro Hero, Insta360) that typically cost $400–500, as well as high-end smartphones with great cameras. DJI might want to stay competitive by not pricing out the core vlogger audience. Some sources suggest DJI could price aggressively to compete with GoPro’s next-gen (e.g., Hero12/13) mylenslogic.com. If so, perhaps the $699/$799 predictions are on the higher end, and we could see something like $599 base, $749 Combo.
At this stage, though, the consensus of leaks leans toward Pocket 4 being the priciest Pocket yet. DJI knows the value it offers – a pocketable 4K gimbal camera is a unique proposition – and if the device truly has class-leading specs, many creators will pay a premium for it. Value-for-money will ultimately depend on how robust those rumored features are in practice. For instance, dual cameras would partly justify a high price by replacing the need for multiple devices/lenses. If Pocket 4 is more of an incremental upgrade, consumers might balk at too high a cost.
One thing to watch is regional pricing: DJI’s pricing can vary (as seen with Pocket 3’s unusual U.S. hikes). Assuming no external issues, a ~$699 Pocket 4 might translate to roughly £649 in the UK and €699 in Europe, and maybe around 5,500–6,000 CNY in China, given how Pocket 3 was priced globally. It’s speculation, but budget around $700 if you’re planning to snag a Pocket 4 – and keep an eye on bundles, since the Creator Combo could be a better deal if you need accessories.
What the Experts and Creators Are Saying
Even though the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 remains unconfirmed, that hasn’t stopped tech experts and popular YouTubers from weighing in on the buzz. Here’s a taste of the early industry chatter and opinions on what the Pocket 4 could mean for creators and the camera market:
- “Already the vlogging cam to beat” – TechRadar’s David Nield highlights that the Pocket 3 is a top-ranked vlogging camera and “class-leading” in its field techradar.com. This pedigree sets high expectations for the Pocket 4. If DJI can meaningfully improve image quality and usability again, experts believe the Pocket 4 could solidify DJI’s dominance in the compact vlogging camera market. However, Nield also notes we’ve only seen first leaks, and upgrades in sensors and resolutions are likely rather than radical changes in concept techradar.com. In other words, the Pocket 4 is expected to refine an already winning formula.
- Dual cameras = game-changer? – The leaked dual-sensor design is drawing particular intrigue. NotebookCheck reports that DJI appears to be plotting “at least two major upgrades” with Pocket 4 to entice even current Pocket 3 users notebookcheck.net. A second camera could be exactly that: a major new capability that gives creators more flexibility in one device. YouTube reviewers are already speculating about potential uses – from simulating multi-cam shoots to capturing different focal perspectives simultaneously. If the dual-camera rumor is true, some commentators are calling the Pocket 4 a potential “next king of vlog cameras”, as it might do the job of a GoPro, a 360-cam, and a traditional camera all in one. Of course, that’s a best-case scenario; we’ll need to see how DJI implements it.
- A wish list of features: The Verge’s Sean Hollister, after testing DJI’s latest phone gimbals, couldn’t help but dream about the Pocket 4. He mused that maybe DJI could “make an Osmo Pocket 4 with a telescoping gimbal, pop-out tripod, and hand gestures” for hands-free control theverge.com. This was more of a playful suggestion than a leak, but it reflects a broader sentiment: creators love the Pocket series, but they have a wish list (built-in tripod stand, extended reach, gesture tracking, etc.). DJI has already fulfilled some wishes (like a wider screen and better mic integration in Pocket 3), and Pocket 4 rumors tick even more boxes (like front screen and improved ActiveTrack). Tech YouTuber forums are abuzz with features they hope DJI includes – from live streaming support to full manual control in-app, etc. While not every wish will come true, the Pocket 4 is shaping up to be the most creator-focused iteration yet.
- Competing against phones & GoPros: A question often raised is, “Why not just use a smartphone or action cam?” TechRadar’s review of Pocket 3 addressed this, calling it “class-leading” partly because of what phones can’t easily do: real gimbal stabilization and long, uninterrupted high-quality recording techradar.com techradar.com. As smartphones improve, DJI seems intent on keeping the Pocket ahead. For example, the rumored 1-inch sensor and Hasselblad color should beat typical phone camera quality, especially in low light or dynamic range. And the mechanical gimbal offers genuine steadiness that even the best phone or GoPro digital stabilization can struggle with in some scenarios. Experts point out that DJI is basically carving a niche between phones, action cams, and larger cameras – and with Pocket 4’s specs, that niche might become a significant segment of the market (for travel vloggers, YouTubers, and solo creators who crave quality with convenience). Gizmodo and others praised the original Osmo Pocket as feeling like “the camcorder of the future” in 2018; the Pocket 4 could finally realize that vision fully.
- Word from DJI (unofficially): While DJI hasn’t made statements about Pocket 4, their comments on Pocket 3’s success are telling. DJI representatives told The Verge that “Since its launch in 2023, [Pocket 3’s] popularity has continued to grow and exceed expectations. We attribute the product’s success largely to word-of-mouth recommendations among both content creators and everyday people.” theverge.com. This underscores that creators genuinely love the Pocket series – it’s not just hype. Thus, the Pocket 4 isn’t being built in a vacuum; it’s being built for a passionate user base that demands a lot. Many YouTube vloggers who have adopted Pocket 3 as a daily driver camera are already voicing hopes that DJI addresses remaining gripes (some want better autofocus, some want even wider FOV, etc.). The leaks suggest DJI has listened to feedback (e.g., adding a front screen to cater to vloggers). If the final product nails these, expect glowing reviews from the tech press and creators alike, potentially calling the Pocket 4 one of the most innovative cameras of its time.
- Skepticism and caution: Not every expert is in full hype mode – some urge caution with unconfirmed leaks. The City Magazine piece, for instance, separates “what’s probable” from wild speculation. They deem things like ActiveTrack 7.0 and a brighter display as logical evolutions (likely true), but remain doubtful about a “pure 4K/240fps” implementation without significant cropping or heat issues (likely not as straightforward) citymagazine.si citymagazine.si. They also note that full waterproofing or drastic changes in sensor size are unlikely without making the device larger citymagazine.si, something DJI would be loath to do. This balanced view is healthy – it reminds readers that not every leak pans out exactly, and some features might be toned down in the final product. Still, even the skeptics agree the Pocket 4 will at minimum be an evolutionary improvement in most areas, keeping DJI at the cutting edge of this category.
The Pocket 4 in the Vlogging Camera Market
If and when the Osmo Pocket 4 launches with the rumored feature set, it will enter a broader market that’s buzzing with innovation. Here’s how it might fit in and what it could mean for content creators:
- Versus action cameras (GoPro, etc.): The Pocket 4, like its predecessors, isn’t meant to be bashed around on a mountain bike or surfboard the way a GoPro is. It’s more of a handheld filmmaking tool. That said, by potentially offering GoPro-like high frame rates (240fps) and including rugged accessories (waterproof case), DJI is encroaching on action cam territory. Importantly, the Pocket 4’s mechanical gimbal gives it an edge for smoothness – imagine gliding shots and walking footage that look cinematic out-of-box, no post stabilization needed. GoPro’s HyperSmooth is excellent, but a tiny gimbal can still outperform in many situations, especially low light or slow panning shots (where digital stabilization can introduce jitter or warping). For travel vloggers and creators who do a bit of adventure, the Pocket 4 could serve as a two-in-one device: stable like a gimbal, yet small and robust enough to substitute for an action cam in many cases. As one comparison put it, the Pocket’s focus on direct image quality and mechanical stabilization may appeal more to vloggers prioritizing polished video, whereas GoPro focuses on extreme durability and ultra-wide 4K footage bikmantech.com bikmantech.com.
- Versus 360 cameras (Insta360, DJI’s own Osmo 360): 360° cameras like the Insta360 One series allow creative reframing and immersive shots. The Pocket 4 isn’t a 360 cam (unless that dual lens somehow offers a 360 mode, which is doubtful). However, with dual lenses, it could enable some multi-angle tricks. For instance, you might film with the wide lens and tele lens together and cut between them, simulating a multi-camera shoot – something a 360 cam can kind of do by punching into the sphere. Still, the Pocket 4 will mainly compete by offering better image quality in a standard camera format. Many creators who don’t need 360’s gimmicks prefer a “normal” camera that just produces a great image. If rumors hold, the Pocket 4’s 1-inch sensor + Hasselblad color will likely outperform the tiny sensors in 360 cams for normal forward-facing footage, especially in low light. It’s a different tool – one that says “let me film this beautifully” rather than “let me capture everything and decide later.” That said, DJI now having both the Osmo Pocket line and the new Osmo 360 means creators have choices: the Pocket 4 for traditional vlogs and cinematic sequences, and a 360 cam for special shots. Some tech bloggers predict DJI’s dual-pronged approach (Pocket and 360) could challenge Insta360’s dominance by covering both use-cases under the Osmo brand.
- Versus smartphones: Perhaps the biggest competitor of all is the one in your pocket (pun intended): your smartphone. Modern phones shoot excellent 4K video, have decent stabilization, and are always with you. DJI has tacitly acknowledged this – one reason the Pocket 3 got that 1-inch sensor is to clearly outclass phone cameras in image quality. The Pocket 4 doubling down with Hasselblad tuning, larger pixels, and more FPS is aimed at convincing creators that a dedicated camera is worth it for serious work. Also, the Pocket offers the smooth pan/tilt moves that phone gimbals can do but phones alone cannot. Notably, The Verge’s Sean Hollister said after using the Pocket 3, he “can’t imagine using [his] smartphone as a baby steadicam anymore”, because the Pocket gave him superior footage and ease theverge.com. With Pocket 4, DJI is likely to widen that gap: more manual control, less overheating in long shoots, better sound capture, etc., all in a device still smaller than most phones. For a creator, that means less compromise: you can keep your phone for communication and quick clips, but use the Pocket for your main content to get a noticeable uptick in production quality. Of course, phones aren’t standing still (some now have 1″ sensors and gimbal-like modules), but DJI’s singular focus on the vlogging experience may continue to give the Pocket an edge among those who prioritize video quality and stability.
- For creators and vloggers: Ultimately, the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 appears to be designed as a power tool for content creators on the go. If all the rumored features pan out, a solo creator could feasibly travel with just this tiny camera and capture footage that rivals a much bulkier setup. Think about it: steady like a gimbal, quality near a mirrorless, slow-mo like a high-speed cam, and smart tracking like a camera crew – all in one device that fits in your palm. It could dramatically simplify the kit needed for YouTubers, travel vloggers, and even pro filmmakers wanting a stealth B-cam. On the flip side, its higher price and focus on advanced features means it’s targeting serious users more than casual shooters. Casual users might stick to their phones, but aspiring creators looking to step up will see the Pocket 4 as an attractive investment in their craft.
TechRadar’s conclusion on the Pocket 3 fits here too: they called it “a relatively expensive bit of kit – but it does enough in terms of features and video quality to justify the price” techradar.com. The Pocket 4 will likely follow that mantra: expensive, but potentially worth every penny if it delivers. Creators will judge it on whether those dual lenses, 4K/240, etc. truly make their work easier or better. If yes, we could see the Pocket 4 become the new darling of vloggers everywhere, much like its predecessors were – only this time with even fewer reasons to look elsewhere.
Conclusion: A Big Leap for the Little Camera
From all the leaks and rumors compiled, the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 is shaping up to be an exciting evolution of DJI’s pocket gimbal camera line. While we should remain cautious (since nothing is official yet), it’s hard not to imagine the possibilities if DJI pulls this off. A Pocket 4 with dual cameras, dual touchscreens, a 1″ Hasselblad-tuned sensor, 4K high-speed recording, and next-gen stabilization would be a dream device for many content creators. It represents DJI pushing the envelope of what can be done in a palm-sized form factor.
Crucially, the Pocket 4 isn’t about random gimmicks – it’s a collection of features that each address real creator needs (better framing, better image quality, smoother video, longer shooting, etc.). If DJI delivers even 80% of what’s rumored, the Pocket 4 could very well set a new benchmark for compact cameras, potentially becoming the go-to “carry everywhere” camera for vloggers and filmmakers who demand quality without bulk. As one analysis put it, it has “all the ingredients to become the new undisputed king of vlog cameras” bikmantech.com.
However, until DJI makes an official announcement, we won’t know for sure which rumors pan out. It’s possible some features get toned down or held back for future models (DJI often balances innovation with practical limits). And the competition isn’t sitting idle – GoPro, Insta360, and smartphone makers will continue to up their game too. The broader takeaway is that the gap between what “professional” cameras can do and what a pocket-sized consumer device can do is narrowing dramatically. The Osmo Pocket series has been at the forefront of that trend, and the Pocket 4 looks to push it even further.
For now, content creators and tech enthusiasts will be watching closely for more leaks or an announcement. Whenever DJI does unveil the Osmo Pocket 4, expect a frenzy of coverage and reviews, as this little camera has a big reputation to live up to. Is it worth the wait? If you ask the fans on forums and the experts who have followed the series, the answer seems to be a resounding “yes – if the leaks are true.” Until then, the Pocket 3 remains a fantastic tool in its own right, but its potential successor has us all intrigued about the future of portable filmmaking.
Sources: The information in this report is based on the latest leaks and analysis from trusted tech sites and insiders, including TechRadar techradar.com techradar.com, NotebookCheck notebookcheck.net notebookcheck.net, City Magazine citymagazine.si citymagazine.si, Loyalty Drones loyaltydrones.com loyaltydrones.com, Bikman Tech bikmantech.com bikmantech.com, and commentary from tech experts at The Verge theverge.com theverge.com. These sources provide insight into the rumored specs, features, and expected launch details of the DJI Osmo Pocket 4, though final specifications may differ if and when DJI officially announces the product. We will update this report as more confirmed information becomes available.
