Autel Robotics Launches the EVO Lite+ 2026 with a 1-Inch Sensor
· drones
Autel Robotics has launched the EVO Lite+ 2026, a refresh of its mid-tier folding drone with a 1-inch CMOS sensor, 6K video recording, and an upgraded obstacle avoidance system. The new model is positioned as a direct competitor to the DJI Mavic 4 Pro, with Autel promising a 40-minute flight time, 15-kilometer transmission range, and a price point roughly $200 below the equivalent DJI.
Why it matters
DJI’s drone market share in North America has dropped to roughly 70% in 2026, down from 85% in 2022, partly because of regulatory pressure and partly because Autel and Skydio have closed the gap on features. The EVO Lite+ 2026 is Autel’s most ambitious consumer drone to date, and the first to ship with a 1-inch sensor at a sub-$1,500 price point.
What is new
- 1-inch CMOS sensor with 20-megapixel stills and 6K/30p video.
- 40-minute flight time with the standard battery, the longest in any Autel consumer drone.
- 15-kilometer transmission range using Autel’s updated SkyLink 3.0 protocol.
- Omnidirectional obstacle avoidance with 12 visual sensors and a new millimeter-wave radar.
The EVO Lite+ 2026 is available now through Autel’s online store, Amazon, and B&H Photo in the US, with the European launch following in July 2026. Pricing starts at $1,299 for the standard bundle.