Continuing my coverage of IFA 2025 with a fantastic product. I’ve seen these a few times and always thought they were cool. But I’ve also seen regular every day consumers using them, not techies. And that means this product is growing, and growing fast.
HOVERAir specialises in personal automated drones. Let’s take a look at what they launched at IFA in Berlin.
HOVERAir X1
The HOVERAir X1 is the company’s most accessible model to date. At just 125 grams, it’s lighter than a smartphone and takes off from the palm of your hand with a single press. Designed for everyday users rather than drone hobbyists and offers over 10 automated flight modes, including orbit, follow, and bird’s eye.
With 2.7K video, a stabilisation system, and 32GB built-in storage, it’s pitched as a pocket-sized companion for capturing family moments, outdoor adventures, or simply hands-free selfies.
HOVERAir X1 PRO and PROMAX
For creators looking for more power, the X1 PRO and PROMAX add higher-resolution cameras and upgraded AI tracking. The PRO shoots in 4K while the PROMAX pushes to 8K, with the latter also including a 1/1.3” CMOS sensor and 7-element lens.
Both models weigh under 193 grams, keeping them within EU sub-250 g regulations, and include accessories like the Beacon (a wrist-worn controller with live video display) and a modular joystick setup for more precise control. Built for speed and rugged conditions, they can fly at up to 42 km/h and withstand temperatures down to -20ºC.
HOVERAir AQUA
Perhaps the most striking announcement was HOVERAir AQUA, which takes the self-flying camera to water. Marketed as the world’s first 100% waterproof autonomous flying camera, AQUA is designed for activities like paddle boarding, kayaking, and wakeboarding.
It features a 4K/100fps slow-motion camera, a hydrophobic lens, and neutral buoyancy, meaning it can take off and land on water. With up to 23 minutes of flight time, 15+ flight modes, including a snorkel mode, and a wearable controller called Lighthouse, AQUA is clearly aimed at water-sport enthusiasts looking for dynamic, hands-free footage.
With these three models, HOVERAir is positioning its line up across casual users, advanced creators, and water-sport adventurers. All rely on the same core promise: capturing cinematic shots without the need for piloting skills or bulky gear.
I hope to be testing these devices in the weeks ahead to see if they live up to the promise of being personal “flying cameras” for any setting, on land, in the air, and now, even on water.
