In a surprising twist that has stunned drone enthusiasts worldwide, DJI has officially announced the retirement of its iconic Phantom line. Originally launched in 2013, the Phantom series has been a staple in the drone market, evolving from a pioneering model to the highly regarded Phantom 4 Pro and Phantom 4 Advanced. However, as of June 1, 2025, these models will no longer be supported, marking the end of an era.

Back in 2019, DJI reassured fans that the Phantom was not being phased out, promising that it would continue to innovate. Yet, the reality is that the last Phantom drone was produced in May 2018, and now it seems the brand has outlived its usefulness for the tech giant.

The Phantom line was instrumental in DJI's rise to dominance in the drone market, becoming synonymous with aerial photography and videography. Although DJI wasn’t the first to enter the market—Parrot’s AR Drone made its debut in 2010—it was the Phantom that redefined consumer expectations, becoming a benchmark for quality and performance.

The drone's distinctive design, characterized by its pillow-and-legs silhouette, became recognizable worldwide, to the point that it featured on signs prohibiting drone use in public spaces.

Despite the affection for the Phantom brand, DJI has clearly shifted its focus toward newer models. Today, their lineup features more streamlined designs with foldable legs, catering to the demands of portability and advanced tech.

Exciting developments are on the horizon, with leaks suggesting the imminent release of the Mavic 4 Pro and Mini 5. As DJI continues to innovate, the legacy of the Phantom will likely fade into history, but its impact on the drone industry will be remembered.

DJI has yet to issue an official statement regarding this major transition, but we expect to hear from them soon. While the Phantom may be saying goodbye, the future of aerial photography looks brighter than ever.