Yes, DJI firmware updates are still allowed in the US. The FCC has said drones it approved before 22 December 2025 can keep getting firmware and software updates until at least 1 January 2029. This comes from an FCC waiver that was first issued on 21 January 2026 and extended on 8 May 2026. It does not cover new models. Last checked: October 2026.
Will DJI Still Push Firmware Updates?
Yes, for drones that were FCC-approved before 22 December 2025. You get updates the same way as before:
- In the DJI Fly app (or the app that came with your drone), which shows a prompt when an update is ready.
- With DJI Assistant 2 on a computer, for models that support it.
- From the firmware download page for your model on DJI’s website.
Updates matter for more than new features. They carry security patches and bug fixes, and they help keep things like FAA Remote ID working. The FCC itself said that cutting off patches would create cybersecurity risks for drones already in use.
What the DJI Covered List Means
The Covered List blocks new FCC equipment authorizations for covered gear. DJI and Autel were covered by a 2024 law, and on 22 December 2025 the FCC added all foreign-made drones and critical drone parts.
Software is part of this. Changing the software of an approved radio device can count as a “permissive change” under FCC rules. Those rules would have blocked firmware changes to covered equipment, including security fixes, on drones already in use. The waiver described below sets that rule aside for older, approved drones.
How the Waiver May Change Updates
The waiver keeps updates flowing, with limits. Here is the timeline:
- 22 December 2025: the Covered List expands to all foreign-made drones and critical parts.
- 21 January 2026: FCC order DA 26-69 allows software and firmware updates for equipment approved before 22 December 2025, until 1 January 2027.
- 8 May 2026: FCC Public Notice DA 26-454 extends the waiver to 1 January 2029. It covers both minor (Class I) and larger (Class II) permissive changes.
You can read the FCC documents here: DA 26-454 and DA 26-69.
What the waiver does not do:
- It does not remove DJI from the Covered List.
- It does not approve new models.
- It does not promise support after 1 January 2029. The FCC could extend it again or let it end.
One more check: the FCC reportedly revoked a few DJI and Autel approvals that were issued shortly before 22 December 2025. If you own a very new model, look up its FCC ID to confirm its approval is still active.
What DJI Firmware Updates May Still Include
The waiver is aimed at keeping existing drones safe and working. Updates it covers include:
- Security patches.
- Bug fixes.
- Compatibility fixes, for example when iOS or Android changes and the app must keep working with your drone.
- Remote ID and other compliance updates.
It does not promise new features. Big feature releases that change how the radio works may not qualify, so do not count on them. Expect future firmware to be maintenance, not upgrades.
What DJI Drone Owners Should Do Now
- Update today. Turn on your drone and controller, open the DJI Fly app, and install any pending update.
- Write down your firmware versions for the aircraft, controller and battery. Keep the note with your receipt.
- Check Remote ID. Make sure your model broadcasts it. If it does not have it built in, add a Remote ID module.
- Use only DJI’s own channels. Do not install firmware from random websites. It can be unsafe and may void your warranty.
- Watch two things. One is the FCC’s decision on DJI’s request to reconsider the listing. The other is 1 January 2029, when the current waiver ends.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will DJI Drones Still Get Firmware Updates?
Yes. Drones the FCC approved before 22 December 2025 can get updates until at least 1 January 2029. After that date, it depends on what the FCC decides.
Can FAA Know You Flew a DJI Drone?
Often, yes, through Remote ID. A drone with Remote ID broadcasts its ID, location, altitude, speed and the pilot’s location while it flies. Anyone nearby with a receiver can pick this up, including the FAA and police. As far as we know, DJI does not send your full flight logs to the FAA. Those stay in your app and DJI account.
Will DJI Drones Still Work After Banning?
Yes. The Covered List does not switch off drones people already own. They can keep flying and keep getting updates. The main risk is slower repairs and fewer parts. See which DJI drones you can still buy in the US for what is on sale.
What Happens After January 2029?
No one knows yet. The FCC may extend the waiver again, as it did in May 2026, or let it end. If it ends, already-approved drones would still be legal to fly, but they might stop getting official updates. Until then, keep your drone updated.
Conclusion
Already-approved DJI drones can keep getting firmware updates until at least 1 January 2029. The updates cover security fixes, bug fixes and compatibility, not new features, and the waiver does not help new models. Update your drone now, keep a note of your firmware version, and watch for any FCC decision on the waiver. For the wider rules, read Is DJI banned in the US? Last checked: October 2026.
