So, what do I think about the new DJI Matrice 4 Series (Matrice 4E and Matrice 4T)?

Let’s start with the fact that I don’t like the name. It might be a nice drone, even an enterprise-grade one but in my opinion – it’s not a real Matrice drone.

Naming Confusion

Traditionally, DJI’s Matrice series has been synonymous with high-end industrial drones like the M300 RTK and M350 RTK-large, highly customizable, built for extreme conditions, and capable of handling complex payloads.

The Matrice 4 Series? It looks more like an oversized Mavic than a Matrice. And that’s a problem-this new model feels like it sits somewhere between Mavic Enterprise and Matrice, making it unclear who this drone is really for.

Don’t get me wrong, I like both the Mavic and the Matrice series, but they are different and should stay that way.

It’s Not Waterproof!

One of the biggest disappointments is that the Matrice 4 Series is NOT waterproof.

The real Matrice drones (M300 RTK, M350 RTK) come with IP55 weather resistance, making them rainproof and reliable in extreme conditions.

The Matrice 4 Series? No such rating. That’s a huge step backward for a drone that claims to be part of the Matrice lineup.

The DJI RC Plus 2 Enterprise Remote Controller – Limited Compatibility

I do like that the DJI RC Plus 2 Enterprise Remote Controller is included, but I have a major complaint:

❌ It doesn’t support the DJI Mavic 3 Enterprise Series drones.

• This isn’t specific to the Matrice 4 Series, but it’s still frustrating.
• DJI should allow enterprise users to use one high-end remote across multiple drones.

No Dual Operator Mode Like the M300/M350

One of the biggest advantages of the real Matrice drones is dual operator mode – one person flies while another operates the camera and sensors.

The Matrice 4 Series? It doesn’t support dual controls.

That’s a huge limitation for professional users who need this feature for complex operations.

The Pricing & Accessories Problem

Now, let’s talk about the price.

• Matrice 4E: $4,799
• Matrice 4T: $7,299

At first, I thought DJI finally included the spotlight in the package, but no – it’s still a separate accessory that costs $339. Same for the speaker, which costs $215.

For a drone that’s already expensive, charging extra for basic accessories feels wrong.

Camera & Sensors

To be fair, the camera system on both models is impressive.

• Matrice 4E: Comes with three cameras: Wide (20 MP), Medium Telephoto (48 MP), and Telephoto (48 MP).
• Matrice 4T: Same as the 4E but adds a thermal camera (640×512 resolution, 30Hz frame rate).
• Laser Rangefinder: Available on the 4T, can measure distances up to 1,800 meters.

Battery Life & Flight Performance

One of the biggest advantages of the Matrice 4 Series is the flight time – up to 55 minutes per battery. That’s impressive and better than the Mavic 3 Enterprise Series.

It also has a new omnidirectional obstacle avoidance system, which should help with safety and autonomous operations.

Final Thoughts – A Matrice in Name Only

The DJI Matrice 4 Series is a powerful drone, but it’s not a real Matrice.

What I Like:

✅ Supports the DJI RC Plus 2 Enterprise controller
✅ Great camera system, especially on the 4T
✅ Long battery life (55 minutes per flight)

What I Don’t Like:

❌ Not waterproof, unlike real Matrice drones
❌ No dual operator mode like the M300/M350
❌ DJI RC Plus 2 doesn’t support Mavic 3 Enterprise drones (general complaint)
❌ Essential accessories (spotlight, speaker) still cost extra
❌ Naming is misleading – it’s more like a Mavic Enterprise than a Matrice

Would I buy it? Not at this time.

Kobi.

In recent years, drone technology has emerged as a pivotal tool in revolutionizing modern law enforcement practices, offering a host of innovative solutions that enhance public safety and operational efficiency. As these advanced machines become more integrated into law enforcement frameworks, they offer unprecedented capabilities—from aerial surveillance and evidence gathering to search and rescue missions—empowering agencies to respond swiftly and effectively to various challenges. The benefits of drones extend beyond mere technological novelty, providing law enforcement with cost-effective, adaptable, and reliable means to uphold security and maintain public trust. In this document, we will delve into the transformative impact of law enforcement drones, exploring their diverse applications and the significant advantages they bring to public safety technology.

Drone Technology in Law Enforcement

Transforming Crime Scene Analysis

Drone technology is revolutionizing crime scene analysis by offering law enforcement agencies unprecedented access to aerial perspectives. These advancements enable precise documentation of crime scenes, enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of evidence collection. Drones equipped with high-resolution cameras and sensors can capture detailed imagery and 3D models, providing investigators with comprehensive data for analysis. This capability allows law enforcement to thoroughly examine large or complex crime scenes without disturbing crucial evidence. Additionally, drones facilitate quicker scene mapping, reducing the time required for on-ground investigators to perform their tasks. By leveraging drone technology, agencies can ensure more reliable and consistent evidence collection, ultimately strengthening the foundations of justice. This innovative law enforcement solution underscores the broader benefits of drones, making them indispensable tools in modern public safety technology.

Enhancing Search and Rescue Operations

Drones are transformative in enhancing search and rescue operations, providing law enforcement with innovative tools to locate missing persons more swiftly and safely. Equipped with thermal imaging and night vision capabilities, drones can operate in challenging environments and conditions where traditional methods may fall short. These advancements allow for rapid scanning of vast areas, pinpointing the location of individuals and reducing the time needed for ground teams to reach them. Furthermore, drones can deliver essential supplies such as medical kits or communication devices, offering immediate assistance while rescue efforts are underway. The deployment of drones in search and rescue missions showcases their adaptability and effectiveness as a public safety technology, ensuring timely responses to emergencies. By integrating drone technology into these operations, law enforcement agencies can enhance their capabilities, ultimately saving lives and reinforcing community trust.

Benefits of Drones for Public Safety

Improving Surveillance and Monitoring

Drones significantly enhance surveillance and monitoring efforts, offering law enforcement agencies an effective means to oversee large areas with precision and discretion. These devices are equipped with advanced cameras and sensors, allowing for real-time data collection and transmission. This capability is crucial in monitoring public events, managing crowds, and detecting potential security threats. Drones provide a bird’s-eye view that is both comprehensive and unobtrusive, ensuring the safety of large gatherings without direct interference. Additionally, drones can be deployed quickly, offering immediate insights in dynamic situations, such as natural disasters or civil unrest. The integration of drone technology into surveillance operations exemplifies the benefits of drones as a cost-effective and reliable public safety technology. By adopting these innovative law enforcement solutions, agencies can improve their situational awareness and response strategies, thereby enhancing community safety and security.

Streamlining Traffic Management

Drones are transforming traffic management by offering real-time monitoring and analysis of road conditions. Equipped with advanced imaging technology, drones can quickly assess traffic flow, identify congestion points, and provide live updates to traffic control centers. This capability allows for more efficient deployment of resources, such as directing traffic or dispatching response teams to accident sites. By providing a comprehensive aerial view, drones enable law enforcement to make informed decisions that enhance road safety and reduce travel delays. Additionally, drones can assess the impact of road closures or construction projects, helping to plan effective detour routes. The integration of drone technology into traffic management exemplifies the broader benefits of drones in public safety technology. It offers a proactive approach to maintaining order on the roads, ensuring a smoother and safer driving experience for the public. Ultimately, this innovative law enforcement solution streamlines traffic management processes and contributes to community well-being.

Innovative Law Enforcement Solutions

Expanding Aerial Reconnaissance Capabilities

Drones are expanding aerial reconnaissance capabilities by providing law enforcement with versatile and efficient methods for gathering intelligence. Unlike traditional aircraft, drones can be deployed rapidly and at a fraction of the cost, making them ideal for situations requiring immediate aerial assessment. They offer high-resolution imaging and video capabilities, allowing agencies to monitor suspect activities, track movements, and gather evidence with precision. This ability is particularly useful in operations where discretion is paramount, as drones can operate quietly and at varying altitudes. Furthermore, drones can access hard-to-reach areas, providing comprehensive coverage that enhances situational awareness. By integrating drone technology into reconnaissance efforts, law enforcement agencies can improve their operational effectiveness, ensuring timely and informed decision-making. This innovative approach demonstrates the benefits of drones as a dynamic public safety technology, reinforcing their role as essential tools in modern policing strategies.

Supporting Disaster Response Efforts

Drones play a crucial role in supporting disaster response efforts by providing rapid assessment and situational awareness in affected areas. Equipped with high-definition cameras and thermal sensors, drones can swiftly survey disaster zones, identifying hazards and assessing damage. This capability allows emergency responders to allocate resources more effectively and prioritize areas needing immediate attention. Additionally, drones can deliver essential supplies, such as medical kits or communication devices, to isolated or hard-to-reach locations, providing vital support until full-scale response efforts can be mobilized. The use of drones in disaster scenarios reduces the risk to human life by minimizing the need for immediate ground presence in dangerous situations. By integrating drone technology into disaster management strategies, law enforcement agencies can enhance their ability to respond to crises efficiently and safely. This innovative approach highlights the benefits of drones as a versatile public safety technology, strengthening community resilience in the face of natural or human-made disasters.

As we welcome 2025, it’s a time of mixed emotions. The new year brings with it a series of economic challenges that will impact households across Israel.

Economic Challenges Ahead

Starting January 1st, several financial measures are set to take effect:

• Value Added Tax (VAT) Increase: The VAT rate will rise from 17% to 18%, affecting the cost of goods and services nationwide.
• Income Tax Adjustments: Income tax brackets will be frozen, potentially leading to higher tax liabilities for many. Additionally, certain tax credits and child allowances are expected to be reduced.
• Utility Price Hikes: Electricity and water rates are slated to increase, further straining household budgets.
• Municipal Taxes: Property taxes (Arnona) are set to rise, adding to the financial burden on homeowners and renters alike.

These measures are part of a broader austerity budget aimed at addressing the economic strains resulting from ongoing conflicts and a slowing economy.

Beyond economic issues, security challenges persist:

• Hostages in Gaza: Approximately 100 Israeli citizens remain captive in Gaza, with efforts to secure their release ongoing but facing significant hurdles.
• Regional Threats: The threat of rocket attacks from groups such as the Houthis in Yemen has increased, leading to heightened alerts and occasional disruptions in daily life.

Looking Forward

While the new year presents significant challenges, it also offers an opportunity for resilience and unity. Addressing these economic and security issues will require collective effort and determination.

As we navigate 2025, staying informed and prepared will be crucial. By understanding the changes ahead, we can better adapt and support one another through these trying times.

The future of artificial intelligence (AI) is both exciting and transformative, promising to redefine how we live, work, and interact with technology. As advancements in AI continue to accelerate, we stand on the cusp of a revolution that will impact every industry and aspect of daily life.

In healthcare, AI-powered systems are expected to revolutionize diagnostics, enabling early detection of diseases through advanced imaging and predictive analytics. Personalized medicine, driven by AI, will tailor treatments to individual genetic profiles, increasing effectiveness and improving outcomes. Similarly, education will see a dramatic shift, with intelligent tutoring systems providing tailored learning experiences for students, helping bridge gaps in access to quality education worldwide.

Transportation is another field poised for transformation, as autonomous vehicles and intelligent traffic management systems promise safer, more efficient roads. Meanwhile, in the realm of environmental conservation, AI is already being used to monitor deforestation, predict natural disasters, and optimize renewable energy usage, addressing global challenges like climate change.

However, the rapid evolution of AI brings important ethical considerations. Questions surrounding privacy, data security, bias, and the potential displacement of jobs must be addressed responsibly. Collaboration between governments, tech companies, and ethicists will be crucial to ensuring that AI development benefits everyone and minimizes harm.

While concerns exist, the opportunities far outweigh the challenges. AI has the potential to augment human capabilities, automate mundane tasks, and free up time for more creative and meaningful pursuits. By approaching AI with a balanced perspective, we can foster a future where humans and machines coexist harmoniously, driving innovation and improving quality of life for all.

As we move forward, the key will be to view AI not as a replacement for human ingenuity but as a powerful tool to enhance it. With thoughtful development and ethical integration, the future of AI is a bright and promising frontier for humanity.

I recently noticed that my blog website was unusually slow. Initially, I thought it might be a server issue, so I took a closer look. However, the server seemed to be running smoothly without any apparent problems.

Next, I decided to check the databases, but everything there appeared to be fine as well. Still, the sluggishness persisted.

Digging deeper, I discovered something peculiar. A call to the following URL was taking an unusually long time to load (approximately 2 seconds per request):

https://www.kobi.co.il/wp-admin/admin.php?page=stats&noheader&proxy&chart=admin-bar-hours-scale

This led me to suspect the Jetpack plugin. To test this hypothesis, I went into the WordPress admin panel and deactivated the Jetpack plugin.

The issue was resolved immediately and the website’s speed returned to normal.

If you’re experiencing similar issues with your WordPress site’s performance, it might be worth checking if Jetpack is causing the slowdown. Deactivating it could save you a lot of frustration!

Kobi.

Since ChatGPT thinks I’m only writing about drones, I’m going to write about something else this time!

I’ve been testing OpenAI/ChatGPT’s search engine (AI Search Engine) and while it’s not bad, I have to admit that I expected more from it.

Don’t get me wrong – I can see why Google is scared of it but currently it feels Google finds better matches for what I’m searching for.

Note that I didn’t really do a full A/B testing to back up my impressions so I could be wrong.

With that said, this might change in the future so I’ll keep playing with it and see if it improves…

Kobi.

Hi,

I wanted to share my initial thoughts on the new DJI Matrice 350 RTK (I will call it M350 from now on).

Let’s get started with the things I like about it:
– IP Rating (IP55 vs IP45 for the aircraft & IP55 vs none for the controller)
– The fact the controller is compatible with M300.
– The battery station charging modes (especially the ready-to-fly mode).
– The fact that the new TB65 batteries can be used with M300 and vise-versa (I really really liked to hear this one!).
– The night vision FPV camera.
– Backward compatibility with M300 payloads.

The things I dislike (so far) are:
– Lack of support for the XT2 and Z30 cameras.
– No improvement in the flight time (compared to M300).

Note: I read in some places that the new battery station is only compatible with the TB65 and WB37 batteries and in some other places that it is compatible with TB60 batteries as well. I hope and tend to think it is compatible with the TB60 batteries.

Kobi.

Hi,

I wanted to share my thoughts on what I like and what I dislike about the DJI Matrice 300 RTK drone after using it for almost two years.

Let’s get started with the things I dislike about it:
1. The controller (DJI Smart Controller Enterprise) – Maybe it’s the screen size, maybe it’s the sticks but DJI Cendence with a CrystalSky monitor is just better.
2. Undetachable propeller blades – It just takes more spaces in the suitcase.
3. The controller (DJI Smart Controller Enterprise) – Having a WB37 Battery as a backup power source is great but why is it only charging the main controller battery when the controller is on? it had the potential of being a great feature.

Now, let’s move on to the things I like about this drone:
1. Flight time of ~45 minutes (with H20T camera).
2. IP45 Rating (for the aircraft itself, the H20/H20T cameras are only IP44).
3. H20T Camera – it’s just a great camera.
4. Emergency Landing with 3 propellors.
5. Battery Hot Swap.
6. Being able to use multiple controllers.
7. Smart Track.
8. Triple gimbal support – I don’t think I’ll use the triple gimbal but it’s good to have the option.
9. The batteries lock – I feel it’s more secure.
10. BS60 Battery Station – I like it, the only downside is that it can’t charge both TB60 and TB55 batteries which would have been amazing. I know there is a dedicated battery station for TB50/TB55 what I wanted one thing that can cover both.

Now, don’t get me wrong, the DJI Matrice 300 RTK is a great drone and I do like it. I just wish there would be a better controller for it (DJI Matrice 300 RTK V2?) and detachable propellers like we had with DJI Matrice 200/210 V1/V2.

Kobi.