The combination seemed like the perfect fit – an action camera giant creating a camera made for the skies. But when the GoPro Karma launched in 2016, the action camera maker’s first drone was quickly plagued with issues. The initial recall proved too much to recover from, and after manufacturing the Karma until 2018, the American action camera brand left the drone industry.
Fast forward to 2025, and the most well-known drone company is facing a ban in the US. If DJI does not pass a security review – which appears to have not yet even begun – by December 23, the company will be placed an FCC banned list and be unavailable for purchase in the US. It’s not just DJI either, as legislation also includes Autel, another China-based drone company.
