Episode Outline — DJI Ban Primer

This article is a guest piece adapted from a video by Mike Sytes. Mike covers everything from engaging drone reviews to FAA Part 107 study guides and tutorials. Check out his work on YouTube and at mikesytes.com.

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The Ban Is Coming

The DJI drone ban is definitely coming.

If you own a DJI drone or you’re thinking about buying one, this might be your last chance. The question is simple: should you sell or buy before it’s too late?  In this episode, Mike lays out a detailed forecast. He wants to help you make the right decision before the December 23, 2025 review deadline.

What’s Happening Right Now

Here’s the current legal situation. Congress passed a law that requires a national security audit for Chinese drones. This audit must be completed by December 23, 2025.  If the audit isn’t finished by that date, DJI faces automatic placement on an FCC covered list. That list would block the import and sale of new DJI drones in the United States.

The Current Status

Right now, there is no official outright ban on DJI drones coming into the U.S. You can still get DJI drones. The DJI Mini 5 just came out. People in the United States are receiving them from third-party sources.  However, DJI has decided not to distribute directly to the United States.  Drones that are already here—the ones that made it before any potential ban—should still be flyable. There’s no word or indication that you won’t be able to fly your existing drones as usual.

Core Uncertainties

But there are other factors to consider:

• Will firmware updates continue? Or will DJI discontinue updates for all U.S. drones?
• What about aftermarket parts? Will you still be able to get replacement batteries, propellers, and other parts?
• What happens to long-term support for drones already in the U.S.?

These are the big unknowns.

The Huawei Analogy

Mike previews an important comparison: the Huawei case. When Huawei faced similar restrictions, there was an immediate retail pullback. Software and ecosystem support vanished. Device resale and usability took a major hit.  The Huawei analogy matters because it shows what could happen to DJI drones.

What’s Next

In this episode, Mike will:

• Compare DJI to Huawei and explain why it matters
• Examine potential impacts for existing owners—both hobbyists and professionals
• Outline an action plan for different user types

Whether you should sell, buy, or hold depends on your situation. Mike will help you figure out the best move before time runs out.

Comparison to Huawei & Firmware Risks

The Huawei Comparison

you can’t help but compare this to the Huawei phone ban that occurred in 2019

So what happens to drones already in the U.S.? That’s a great question. And you can’t help but look at what happened with Huawei phones in 2019.  When the U.S. government banned Huawei from doing business here, things changed fast. Retailers stopped selling Huawei devices almost overnight. Google pulled support. There were no more Android or Google Play services. Software updates stopped. App store access was cut off.

Why Huawei Matters

The Huawei case is a cautionary tale. The phones still worked for a while. But without updates or access to the app ecosystem, they quickly lost value and usability. Resale value tanked. It sank all the way to the bottom.  People found their phones less useful over time. No security patches. No new features. No app updates. Trust declined fast.

What This Means for DJI

The same thing could happen to DJI drones. Here are the risk areas:

• Retail pullback: Stores may stop selling DJI products immediately
• Firmware updates: DJI might discontinue updates for U.S. drones
• Feature updates: New features and improvements could stop
• Cloud services: Access to DJI’s cloud or online services might be blocked
• Technical partnerships: Mapping services and enterprise integrations could be stripped away

The Critical Question

The biggest uncertainty is this: will DJI continue to provide firmware and remote-controller updates for drones already in the United States?  Or will those updates be discontinued—just like Google removed services from Huawei phones?  This is the most critical technical question. Software and support drive long-term device value and utility.

Signs It’s Already Happening

There are already warning signs. Stock shortages are appearing. Distributors are changing their behavior. The supply chain is pulling back.  And here’s another clue: companies like Skyio are lobbying hard for the ban. Domestic manufacturers want to push DJI out. They’re applying political pressure to make sure the ban happens.  Think of it this way. If you set up a meeting with someone for 2:30 PM and you keep texting them to confirm, but they never respond—you know they’re not coming. It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure it out.

If DJI hasn’t done the security audit by now, they’re not going to do it.

The Resale Value Risk

When the ban goes through in December 2025, there will be no more new DJI drones coming into the U.S. Your existing drone might still fly. But without updates and support, its value will drop.  Just like Huawei phones, DJI drones could lose resale value fast. Buyers won’t want a device that can’t get updates or parts.

What You Should Do

Owners should treat the possibility of discontinued updates seriously. Don’t assume everything will be fine. The Huawei case shows what can happen when support vanishes.  In the next sections, Mike will break down what this means for hobbyists, professionals, and people thinking about buying a DJI drone right now.

Impact on Existing Drones, Parts & Resale

What Happens to Your Existing Drone?

Here’s the good news: there’s no indication that drones already in the U.S. will be grounded. Your existing drone should still fly.  If you own a DJI drone today, it should keep working under its current firmware. That’s a big difference from what happened with Huawei phones.

The Firmware Question

With Huawei phones, apps stopped working. Google services disappeared. But DJI drones are different. The firmware already on your drone allows it to fly and function normally.  However, future firmware updates are at risk. You may lose access to:

• New firmware patches
• Safety updates
• Bug fixes
• Remote controller updates
• Compatibility with new airspace rules

Without updates, your drone can still fly. But over time, you might miss important safety improvements and regulatory changes.

Parts and Accessories Are Already Scarce

Get as many parts as you can before the ban goes through.

Here’s where things get serious. Retailers are already seeing stock shortages. This isn’t just about drones. It’s about the parts you need to keep flying:

• Propellers
• Batteries
• Repair parts
• Enterprise components

If you can’t get replacement parts, your drone becomes harder to maintain. That accelerates value loss and creates real operational risk.

Resale Value: A Tale of Two Drones

Resale value will depend on your drone’s condition and firmware status.

Newer Drones May Spike in Value

If you have a newer drone with up-to-date firmware, you might see a brief spike in resale value. Buyers will want devices with current software guarantees. These drones are ready to fly without needing updates.

Older Drones May Lose Value Fast

If you have an older drone that has lost update or repair support, expect steep depreciation. It’s like having an old iPhone that stopped getting updates five years ago. The resale value drops hard.  No updates or repairs means less value. Buyers won’t pay much for a device with no software support.

The Parts Problem

Losing access to spare parts will hurt value even more. If you can’t replace a broken propeller or a worn-out battery, your drone becomes a paperweight.  This is already happening. Stock is running low. Once the ban goes through, parts will be even harder to find.

What Should You Do?

Your next move depends on who you are.

For Professionals

Stockpile critical parts now. Get extra batteries, propellers, and repair components. If you rely on your drone for work, you can’t afford to be grounded by a missing part.

For Hobbyists

Ask yourself: is my drone in good enough condition to last several years without updates? If yes, you might be fine. If no, consider your options now.

The Bottom Line

Your existing DJI drone should still fly after the ban. But losing firmware updates and parts access will hurt long-term value and usability.  Act now. Stock up on parts. Assess your drone’s condition. And think carefully about what you need to keep flying.

Who Should Sell, Who Should Buy — Practical Guidance

No One-Size-Fits-All Answer

Should you sell your DJI drone? Should you buy a new one? The truth is, there’s no single answer that works for everyone. Your decision depends on your situation. Are you a commercial pilot or a hobbyist? Do you rely on your drone to make money? Can you get parts if something breaks? Let’s break this down by user type.

For Commercial and Professional Pilots

If you’re a professional and you use a DJI drone in commercial work to make money … then it’s imperative for you to have enough parts and supplies

If you fly drones for work, you need to act now. Your business depends on keeping your drones in the air. You can’t afford downtime.

Stockpile Critical Parts

The word that keeps coming up is stockpile. Mike has heard from remote pilots in agriculture and other commercial fields. They’re all saying the same thing: get parts now. Here’s what you need to stock up on:

• Extra batteries
• Propellers
• Motors
• Controllers
• Spare units

If something breaks after the ban, you may not be able to replace it. Parts might not be available at all.

Protect Your Business

Think of this as protecting your business assets. If you can’t fly, you can’t work. If you can’t work, you lose income.  Stockpiling parts is like buying insurance. It keeps you flying when parts become scarce or unavailable.

Consider Enterprise Waivers

If you have FAA waivers or approvals tied to specific DJI hardware, losing those approvals could be costly. You might be forced to switch platforms. That means new equipment, new training, and higher costs.  Plan ahead. Know what your backup options are.

For Recreational Pilots

If you fly for fun, your decision is different. You don’t have a business at risk. But you still need to think carefully.

Ask Yourself: Will My Drone Last?

Can your current drone keep flying for the next few years without updates? If yes, you might not need to do anything.  If your drone is in good shape and has current firmware, you may be fine. Just keep flying and enjoy it.

Don’t Panic Buy

You don’t need to rush out and buy a new drone unless you want one. If you’re happy with what you have, stick with it.  But if you’ve been thinking about upgrading, now might be the time. Get a newer model with up-to-date firmware before the ban takes effect.

For Owners of Older DJI Drones

If you have an older drone that’s already lost update support, think about selling sooner rather than later.

Resale Value Will Drop

Older unsupported drones will lose almost all market value once the ban hits. Buyers won’t want a device that can’t get updates or parts.  If you’re going to sell, do it now. Don’t wait until December when the market floods with used drones.

For Buyers Considering a New DJI Now

Should you buy a new DJI drone right now? That depends on your needs.

Buy Through Third-Party Distributors

You can’t buy directly from DJI anymore. But third-party distributors still have stock. If you want a new drone, this is your window.  The DJI Mini 5 just came out. People in the U.S. are getting them from third-party sources. But that stock won’t last forever.

Weigh the Risks

Before you buy, think about the risks:

• Will you get future software updates?
• Can you get parts if something breaks?
• How long will this drone stay useful?

If you’re buying for professional work, make sure you can stockpile parts. If you’re buying for fun, make sure you’re okay with flying the drone as-is for years.

Your Strategy: Act Now, Not Later

Don’t wait until December to make your decision. By then, it will be too late. Here’s what to do now:

• Professionals: Stockpile parts and spare units. Protect your business.
• Hobbyists: Assess your current drone. Decide if you need to upgrade or if you’re happy with what you have.
• Owners of older drones: Consider selling now before resale value drops.
• Buyers: Get a new drone from third-party distributors if you want one, but understand the risks.

The Bottom Line

Neither “sell everything” nor “buy everything” fits every user. Your decision depends on your use case, your reliance on reliability, and your access to parts. Think carefully. Plan ahead. And act before time runs out.

Regulatory Risks, Alternatives & Industry Landscape

DJI Isn’t the Only Option

DJI is not the only drone manufacturer out there.

It’s easy to think DJI is the only game in town. But that’s not true. DJI dominates the global market and the U.S. market. But other companies make drones too. Here are some alternatives:

• Autel: A major competitor with enterprise and consumer models
• Skyo: A U.S.-based manufacturer pushing for domestic production
• Parrot: A European brand with commercial and mapping drones
• American-made platforms: More expensive, but built in the U.S.

The regulatory and political push could favor domestic manufacturers. If DJI is banned, these companies will step in to fill the gap.

Regulatory Crosswinds: Part 107 and Remote ID

Right now, Part 107 already requires remote ID broadcasting. That means your drone must broadcast its location and identification while flying. But remote ID does not currently require drones to sense nearby aircraft. Your drone doesn’t have to detect other drones or manned aircraft around it. That could change.

The Part 108 Proposal

New rules under Part 108 are being proposed. These rules could introduce major changes to how drones operate. One big change is detect-and-avoid technology. Detect-and-avoid means your drone would need sensors to detect nearby aircraft and avoid them. Many older DJI models don’t have this technology. If Part 108 becomes law, it could create new technical requirements. Drones that don’t meet those requirements might not be approved for certain operations.

Risk of Bleed-Over

Here’s the concern: Part 108 rules might influence Part 107 or enterprise approvals. Even if Part 108 only applies to certain operations, the technical standards could bleed over into other areas. If that happens, older DJI drones without detect-and-avoid sensors could lose approval for commercial work. That would force operators to switch platforms.

Consequences for Enterprise Operations

Commercial waivers and approvals are often tied to specific hardware. If your waiver is tied to a DJI drone, losing that approval could be costly. You might be forced to:

• Switch to a different brand
• Buy more expensive American-made drones
• Retrain your team on new equipment
• Re-certify your operations

This isn’t just about buying a new drone. It’s about the entire cost of switching platforms.

Economic Implications

Switching platforms raises the cost of operations. Here’s what you’ll face:

• Hardware costs: New drones can be much more expensive
• Software costs: New platforms may require different software and subscriptions
• Retraining costs: Your team will need to learn new systems
• Re-certification costs: You may need new FAA approvals and waivers

American-made drones can cost $15,000 or more. That’s a huge jump from a $1,000 DJI drone.  For small businesses, this could be a major financial hit. For large enterprises, it means higher operating costs across the board.

Guidance: Monitor and Plan

Here’s what you should do:

Stay Informed

Monitor regulatory updates closely. Watch for news about Part 108 and any changes to Part 107. The FAA and Congress are moving fast.

Evaluate Alternatives

Start looking at alternative manufacturers now. Don’t wait until you’re forced to switch. Research your options:

• What platforms meet your needs?
• What do they cost?
• What training will your team need?

Calculate Total Cost of Ownership

Don’t just look at the price of the drone. Consider the total cost of ownership:

• Hardware
• Software and subscriptions
• Training
• Approvals and waivers
• Ongoing support

A cheaper drone might cost more in the long run if it doesn’t meet regulatory requirements or lacks support.

Plan for the Worst Case

Assume the worst case scenario. What if DJI support ends completely? What if new regulations require technology your current drone doesn’t have? Have a backup plan. Know what you’ll do if you need to switch platforms quickly.

The Bottom Line

DJI dominates the market, but alternatives exist. Regulatory changes under Part 108 could introduce new technical requirements that older DJI drones don’t meet. If you rely on DJI for commercial work, start planning now. Evaluate alternatives. Calculate the cost of switching. And stay informed about regulatory changes. The landscape is shifting fast. Don’t get caught unprepared.

Action Plan & Closing Call to Action

Your Action Plan: What to Do Before December 23, 2025

You’ve heard the forecast. You understand the risks. Now it’s time to act.

Here’s a quick recap of the core recommendations:

• Prepare now: Plan your strategy before December 23, 2025
• Stockpile parts: If you rely on drones commercially, get batteries, propellers, controllers, and enterprise spares
• Sell older units: Consider selling unsupported drones before resale value drops
• Weigh new purchases carefully: Buy a newer DJI model only if you accept the support risk

The key is to have a plan. Don’t wait until the ban takes effect to figure out what to do.

Your Action Checklist

Here’s a simple checklist to help you prepare:

1. Inventory Your Equipment

Make a list of everything you own:

• All your drones
• Firmware versions on each drone
• Critical spare parts you already have
• Batteries and their condition
• Controllers and accessories

Knowing what you have is the first step to planning what you need.

2. Stockpile Critical Parts

Buy the parts you’ll need to keep flying:

• Extra batteries (they wear out over time)
• Propellers (they break easily)
• Controllers (in case yours fails)
• Enterprise spares (motors, sensors, repair kits)

If you can’t get parts after the ban, your drone becomes useless. Stock up now.

3. Evaluate Alternatives

Start looking at other drone manufacturers:

• Autel: Enterprise and consumer models
• Skyo: U.S.-based manufacturer
• Parrot: European commercial drones
• American-made options: More expensive, but built domestically

Test or vet these platforms now. Don’t wait until you’re forced to switch.

4. Monitor Regulations

Stay informed about regulatory changes:

• Watch Part 107 and Part 108 developments
• Follow FCC covered list actions
• Track any updates before December 23, 2025

The rules are changing fast. Keep up with the latest news.

5. Financial Planning

Model the financial impact:

• Calculate resale value for your current drones
• Estimate the cost to migrate to new platforms
• Budget for new equipment, training, and re-certification

Know what switching platforms will cost. Plan your budget accordingly.

Hobbyists vs. Professionals: Different Strategies

Your strategy depends on how you use your drone.

For Hobbyists

You can often wait and ride out uncertainty. If your drone works and you’re happy with it, keep flying. You don’t need to panic. But if you want a new drone, act now. Get one before the ban takes effect.

For Commercial Pilots

You must act to avoid lost revenue. Your business depends on keeping your drones in the air. Stockpile parts. Plan your backup strategy. Protect your income. Don’t wait. The cost of downtime is too high.

Mike’s Personal Strategy

I have already made strategic decisions to make sure that I have enough DJI gear and equipment and parts that will last for several years of commercial flight and recreational enjoyment.

Mike has already made his move. He’s ordered a DJI Mini 5 Pro. He’s stockpiled gear, equipment, and parts. He’s planned for several years of commercial and recreational flying.  He’s prepared. And you should be too. Coming up with a plan now will save you stress later. Don’t wait until the ban hits to make rushed decisions.

Join the Conversation

What would you do in this situation? What’s your plan? Post your comment and share your strategy. Are you selling? Are you buying? Are you stockpiling parts? Mike wants to hear from you. And other pilots can learn from your experience.

What’s Next

Mike will post more videos on this topic before December. He’ll keep you updated as the situation develops. Until then, take action. Follow the checklist. Make your plan. And stay informed. Subscribe to stay updated. More content is coming soon. You have the information. You have the tools. Now it’s time to act.

Don’t wait. Prepare now.