DJI Phantom 3 Standard

The DJI Phantom 3 Standard, introduced by DJI in early 2015, marked a turning point for consumer aerial photography by blending professional‑grade stability with a price accessible to hobbyists. Building on the success of the original Phantom series, the 3 Standard incorporated DJI’s first integrated GPS‑based flight controller, enabling reliable hover, automatic return‑to‑home, and waypoint navigation. Its 2.7‑kilogram frame houses a 12‑megapixel camera capable of shooting 1080p video at 30 frames per second, and the fixed‑lens optics provide a 94‑degree field of view. A three‑axis gimbal isolates the sensor from vibrations, delivering smooth footage even in windy conditions. The drone’s 2‑hour flight time, achieved through a 2,880 mAh battery, and its 4 km HD transmission range set new expectations for endurance and control. By offering an intuitive smartphone app and simplified pre‑flight checks, the Phantom 3 Standard lowered the barrier to entry for aerial cinematography, accelerating the adoption of drones in filmmaking, surveying, and emergency response. Its commercial popularity helped cement DJI’s dominance in the UAV market and inspired regulatory frameworks that shape modern civil aviation today. The platform also supported third‑party apps, encouraging a vibrant developer ecosystem that further expanded its capabilities and educational use in universities.