When I first saw HoverAir’s Versa, my immediate reaction was, “this is exactly the kind of product I’ve been hoping someone would make.” HoverAir is already known for its self-flying drones that follow users around, and more recently its waterborne flying camera, but Versa feels different — it’s a pocket camera that can quickly transform into an aerial camera.
I’ve honestly wanted something like this for a while: a way to remove the camera from the drone so I can use it handheld too. How nice would it be if I could just power off the drone and use it as a 3-axis pocket camera? Well, it looks like my dreams are going to come true.
In its default handheld form, Versa looks a lot like the kind of creator-friendly pocket cameras I already like, such as an Osmo Pocket or Insta360 Luna. It has a stabilized three-axis gimbal camera, a small built-in screen, and some controls. So on paper, it feels like a DJI Pocket-style camera — but with the added twist that it can turn into a drone.
What really excites me is that I can snap wings onto the HoverAir Versa and turn it into a dedicated aerial camera that automatically follows me around. That makes it feel like a drone and a DJI Pocket merged into one device, which is exactly the kind of all-in-one setup I’ve been waiting for.
“Versa is the first 3-axis gimbal camera that can go from hand to hover in a matter of seconds. Whatever the setting or scene, Versa knows how to adapt. Finally, no shot is ever out of reach,” HoverAir says on Instagram.
“No learning curve. No pilot skills. No controller,” the company continues. “Just launch and go.”
The HoverAir Versa uses an AI tracking engine that promises to track subjects accurately and smoothly. Like HoverAir’s other products, it also includes intelligent flight modes that can add more dynamic camera movements to video capture.
There are still a lot of unanswered questions, since detailed technical specifications aren’t available yet — especially around imaging capabilities, the lens, and price. Still, HoverAir says Versa features an “industry-leading image processor” and will “set the standard” for dynamic range in the pocket camera landscape.
“The result is pure, uncompromised clarity and incredible low-light footage that remains clean and true to life,” HoverAir promises.
One of the most interesting features is the 3D Worlds mode, which sends Versa on a precise 360-degree flight pattern. The camera captures the images needed to reconstruct a scene in three dimensions, creating an explorable 3D file that can be shared and explored.
“By merging handheld stabilization with autonomous flight, HoverAir has engineered the ultimate, all-in-one creative companion,” the company explains. “Versa has the power to unlock endless perspectives from a single device.”
HoverAir says more details are “coming soon,” and I’m definitely interested enough to keep an eye on it.