Full Breakdown
DJI Files Patent Infringement Lawsuit Against Insta360
3/24/2026, 12:48:31 AM
Overview of the Legal Dispute
Chinese drone manufacturer DJI has initiated a lawsuit against rival Insta360, alleging patent infringement related to six key technologies. The lawsuit was filed in the Shenzhen Intermediate People’s Court just days before DJI's anticipated launch of its first 360-degree drone, the Avata 360. The patents in question encompass critical areas such as drone flight control, structural design, and image processing. DJI asserts that these patents should belong to them because they were developed by former employees who left the company within a year prior to joining Insta360.
Background and Context
The legal action comes amid escalating competition between DJI and Insta360, which has recently expanded its product offerings to include drones. Historically, DJI has dominated the drone market, while Insta360 has carved out a niche in 360-degree cameras. However, the lines between their product categories have blurred, particularly with Insta360's launch of the Antigravity A1, marketed as the first 8K 360-degree drone. This shift has intensified the rivalry, prompting DJI's legal maneuver as it seeks to secure its technological advantages.
Key Figures Involved
Official Statements & Responses
Insta360's founder, Liu Jingkang, publicly refuted DJI's claims, stating that an internal review indicated all relevant innovations were independently developed at Insta360. He emphasized that the patents in question were filed over four years ago and that many have not been utilized in their products. Liu also pointed out that DJI has faced allegations of infringing on Insta360's patents, suggesting a broader context of mutual accusations in the industry.
Criticism & Opposition
Liu criticized DJI's approach, suggesting that established companies often resort to litigation to protect market share rather than focusing on innovation. He noted that Insta360 has refrained from suing DJI despite identifying potential patent infringements on DJI's part, citing limited resources and a preference for innovation over legal battles.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While DJI claims the patents were developed by former employees, Insta360 maintains that these innovations were independently created. The court's decision will ultimately determine the validity of these claims, highlighting the complexities of intellectual property law in the tech industry.
What's Next
The Shenzhen Intermediate People’s Court has accepted the case, indicating that it will proceed to a full legal examination. The outcome could have significant implications for both companies, particularly as DJI prepares to launch the Avata 360, which aims to merge drone technology with immersive 360-degree imaging.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The evidence shows that all ideas and innovations were independently created at Insta360,” Liu writes.” — Liu Jingkang, Founder of Insta360
- “We refuse to fight over the same pie; we prefer to expand the market through continuous innovation and earn our place.” — Liu Jingkang, Founder of Insta360
- “If proven, the rights to those patents would belong to DJI, not Insta360.” — Industry Analysis on DJI's Claims
This lawsuit not only represents a significant legal battle but also underscores the broader tensions in the tech industry regarding innovation, competition, and intellectual property rights.
