DJI Smart Controller Mavic Air 2 Update Tutorial, Problems & Solutions

The update smart controller users have been waiting for is here, and I'm excited to finally fly my Mavic Air 2 with my smart controller.

After receiving a few messages about update frustrations from community members, I was optimistic that my update experience would be better, and overall it was filled with frustration. Hopefully I'll be able to save you guys some time and help you update your Smart Controller with ease.

Starting off with some common errors, you can't update the Smart Controller only using the device for the update.

Mavic Air 2 Smart Controller Firmware Update Walkthrough/Tutorial

1. Download the DJI Assistant 2 for Mavic software from DJI ("Over the air" Updates on the device itself arent working at the time of writing)
2. Use the USB-C port on the bottom of the Smart Controller to connect to your computer.
3. Open the software and click on your Smart Controller.
4. Press the "Update Firmware" button alongside the latest version of the firmware.
5. Let the DJI Assistant 2 update your firmware.
6. After the update is complete, open the DJI Fly app that's now on your home screen. The Fly app will download.
7. After the download is complete, link your Mavic Air 2 to Smart Controller. From the settings, click the "Link Aircraft" button.
8. Press the "Plus" icon to begin linking your Mavic Air 2 to your Smart Controller.
9. To link the Mavic Air 2, press and hold the power button for 4 seconds and the Mavic Air 2 will link to the Smart Controller.
10. The DJI Fly app should automatically open and you're ready to fly!

Common DJI Smart Controller Firmware Update Problems

DJI Smart Controller Firmware Update Network Error

Currently for the Smart Controller, if you're getting a network error you have to update via the DJI Assistant 2 for Mavic software via your PC or MAC computer. You can download the software here.

Smart Controller Not Recognized by the DJI Assistant 2 for Mavic Software

If your Smart Controller isn't recognized by the software, it could be because you have a slow USB-C Cable, make sure you're using a fast USB-C Cable.

If your Smart Controller Hangs On Firmware Update

Make sure the "Share DJI Settings" are enabled from the settings menu. These need to be enabled to allow the firmware to be updated

If your Smart Controller has Insufficient Storage Space

Check your DJI GO 4 cache settings. The cache may be full and need to be cleared. If you haven't adjusted your cache settings this shouldn't be a problem. If you've tried to update your DJI Smart Controller firmware on the device itself and wasn't able to do so, make sure to clear your firmware files from the Smart Controller. If all else fails, factory resetting the device will remove all of the lingering files you're unable to remove. Make sure to back up your files if you have any data on your Smart Controller first though!

If your Smart Controller Starts Beeping While Updating the Firmware

Tap the power button once to silence the beeps and keep the controller on. Don't long-press it or it will turn off. The "updating" process takes a while in the DJI Assistant 2 for Mavic software. I have fast fiber internet and it still took a while to download and update!