The DJI Osmo Pocket 4 is no longer just a rumor — it’s officially sitting inside the FCC database, and that means one thing: DJI is nearly ready to launch. The paperwork, listed under the model ID OP041, confirms that hardware is locked, design is finished, and DJI is simply running through final certification ahead of release.

What’s even more interesting?
Multiple reliable creators are pointing to a December 18th, 2025 announcement — and some say DJI may be racing a government deadline to get the Pocket 4 approved before December 23rd due to new U.S. national security rules.

Whether that pressure is real or hype, one thing is certain:
The Pocket 4 appears to be DJI’s biggest update in more than two years.

Let’s break down what’s confirmed, what’s highly likely, and what this launch means for creators.

✔ CONFIRMED: FCC Filings Reveal Key Hardware Changes

The FCC documents don’t show photos (yet), but they do confirm several major upgrades.

1. Bigger Battery — 18% More Life

DJI is upgrading from the Pocket 3’s 1,300 mAh cell to a 1,545 mAh pack (likely marketed as 1,600 mAh).
This equals an estimated 15–18% longer shooting time.

For a pocketable gimbal camera, that’s huge — especially for vloggers and travel creators who always felt the Pocket series needed more endurance.

2. Physical Design: Mostly Unchanged

FCC outline drawings show a shape nearly identical to the Pocket 3.
No radical redesign, just a polished evolution.

This suggests DJI refined components internally instead of reinventing the wheel.

3. Connectivity: No Wi-Fi 6, Still Wi-Fi 5

The Pocket 4 keeps Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth Low Energy, likely BLE 5.2.
No major connectivity leap here.

🔥 RUMORED UPGRADES: The Pocket 4 Could Be a Creator Powerhouse

The rumors and leaks get much more exciting than the FCC specs.

1. A New 1-Inch (Possibly Square) Sensor

The Pocket 4 is reportedly jumping to a 1-inch imaging sensor — a huge step up from previous generations.

Even more intriguing: the sensor might be square, similar to the Osmo Action 6 and Osmo 360.
A 13.2mm x 13.2mm sensor could allow:

✔ True 4K vertical video
✔ No resolution loss when switching orientations
✔ Better social-media-optimized workflow

Vertical shooters on TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts would gain a massive advantage.

2. Major Video Upgrades: 6K & Super Slow Motion

Leaks claim:

• 6K up to 30fps
• 4K at 120fps slow motion
  

This would dramatically improve reframing flexibility, cropping room, and stabilization quality.

3. Dual Cameras + Extra Screen

Multiple sources reference dual-camera functionality and even an additional display, mirroring what we’ve seen in competing vlog cameras.

If true, the Pocket 4 becomes far more versatile for:

• Self-shooting vloggers
• Cinematic creators needing lens options
• Multiformat shooters (horizontal + vertical)

4. Variable Aperture or Expanded ND System

Competing rumors say DJI is considering:

• Variable aperture f/2.0–f/4.0, or
• A 5-stop built-in ND system

Either option means better exposure control during outdoor shoots without needing extra filters.

5. Built-in Storage and 10-bit D-Log M

Expected upgrades include:

• 32GB+ internal memory
• 10-bit D-Log M profile
  

This brings Pocket-level cameras closer to DJI’s higher-end offerings in color flexibility and dynamic range.

6. Better Audio: Osmo Mic Wireless Integration

The Pocket 4 may pair “more seamlessly” with DJI’s Bluetooth mic system, enhancing on-the-go dialogue and vlogging audio.

7. 360° Panning

There are hints that the Pocket 4 might support full 360-degree pan rotation, similar to the Osmo Mobile 8 gimbal.

That would drastically improve motion shots, cinematic transitions, and automated movements.

8. Still No Mechanical Gimbal Lock

Unfortunately, leaks suggest DJI still may not include a physical gimbal lock, something Pocket users have wanted for travel protection.

⏰ The December 18th Release: Why This Date Keeps Coming Up

Multiple creators independently mention December 18, 2025 as the announcement date.

But why December — which is unusual for DJI?

According to one transcript:

DJI may be racing to beat a December 23rd national-security rule deadline, potentially affecting U.S. market access.

Whether this deadline is real or internet speculation, it would explain:

• Uncharacteristic December release
• Sudden Pocket 3 fire-sale pricing
• DJI clearly rushing FCC certification

Costco even selling Pocket 3 bundles for $300 is a strong sign that DJI is clearing inventory before launch.

💰 Expected Price: $500–$600

Based on feature set and early analysis, the Pocket 4 will likely cost:

$499–$599

That puts it slightly above the Pocket 3 but far below full mirrorless or action-camera competition.

📸 Should You Buy a Pocket 3 or Wait?

If you see the Pocket 3 for under $300, it’s still a great deal — even with the Pocket 4 incoming.

But at full price ($500+), everyone recommends waiting.

Worst-case scenario?
Pocket 4 is a dud, and the Pocket 3 drops even further for the holidays.

🎬 Final Thoughts: Pocket 4 Looks Like DJI’s Most Creator-Focused Upgrade Yet

If the FCC confirmations and leak reports are accurate, the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 might become:

• The best vertical-video camera in the world
• A massive upgrade for vloggers and travelers
• A serious threat to Insta360 and GoPro
• A polished, reliable evolution instead of a risky redesign

Better battery, new sensor, 6K recording, dual cameras, vertical optimization, improved stabilization — DJI seems ready to deliver one of its most practical creator tools ever.

Now we wait for December.
Or sooner, if DJI really is racing the “banhammer.”