In a shocking turn of events, DJI's much-loved Osmo Pocket 3 has undergone a staggering price hike, leaving tech enthusiasts and videographers stunned. What was once hailed as "almost everything I wanted my iPhone camera to be" is now harder to recommend as its price skyrockets from $519 to an eye-watering $799 within a mere two months.

Back in April, DJI snuck in a price increase to $619, but just when consumers thought that was it, bam! Another jump took place, marking a jaw-dropping increase of $280—a whopping 54%! According to DJI spokesperson Daisy Kong, "The price you saw today is the current price," confirming that this isn’t just a glitch in the system.

It gets even wilder with the Osmo Pocket 3's Creator Combo. Initially priced at $669, this comprehensive kit, loaded with handy accessories like a modular battery handle and a premium wireless microphone, is now selling at $979 after an earlier bump to $799.

But why the sudden price surge? Could it be a fallout from the tariffs imposed during the Trump administration? While DJI admits that tariffs are "among the key considerations," they insist it’s a more complex issue.

Interestingly, this price hike seems exclusive to the U.S., while the Osmo Pocket 3 remains at original prices in markets like the UK, Europe, and Japan—where it even claimed the title of Japan's best-selling video camera last year!

DJI proudly claims that the Osmo Pocket 3 has smashed sales records since its 2023 launch, bolstered by word-of-mouth endorsements from both creators and everyday users eager to capture life's moments.

However, the irony is that even with the steep prices, stock is dwindling across U.S. retailers, and it’s not just cameras—many of DJI's drone models are also facing similar shortages. Though some speculate that tariffs may lead DJI to abandon the U.S. market, the company reassures consumers of their commitment to the U.S. and is working to ensure product accessibility.

For those desperate to snag the Osmo Pocket 3 Creator Combo at a somewhat reasonable price, there’s a quirky workaround: Amazon currently offers free shipping from Germany, but be prepared to fork over an extra $71 in estimated tariffs. That brings the grand total to about $725.92, a far cry from its former glory days!

As a frequent user of the Osmo Pocket 3, primarily for filming my "Today I’m Toying With" videos, I can confidently say it's worth the price—though $979 is a tough pill to swallow!

While DJI hasn't raised prices on drones and other products yet, the future remains uncertain as they navigate these turbulent waters.