DJI SOMO Action Camera App Review Features and Tips

The DJI SOMO Action Camera App transforms your smartphone into a powerful remote control and editing hub for DJI’s action cameras, delivering seamless live preview, intuitive shooting modes, and real-time adjustments. With advanced features like voice control, gesture recognition, and AI-powered editing tools, it elevates mobile filmmaking to a professional level—all from your phone. Ideal for adventurers and creators, the app ensures you never miss a shot, no matter how extreme the environment.

Key Takeaways

• Seamless Control: Use the app for real-time camera adjustments and framing.
• Quick Editing: Trim, filter, and share clips directly in the app.
• Stable Connectivity: Ensure 5GHz Wi-Fi for lag-free preview and transfers.
• Pro Mode: Unlock manual settings for advanced exposure and color control.
• Voice Commands: Hands-free operation via simple voice prompts.
• Firmware Updates: Regularly update for new features and bug fixes.

Why the DJI SOMO App Is a Game-Changer for Action Camera Users

Let’s face it—owning a DJI action camera like the Osmo Action 4 or Osmo Action 3 is only half the fun. The real magic happens when you pair it with the DJI SOMO Action Camera App. Think of it as the invisible hand guiding your camera, unlocking features you didn’t even know existed. I remember the first time I connected my Osmo Action 3 to the app. I was hiking in the Rockies, fumbling with manual settings under a drizzle, when a friend said, “Why not use the app?” Within minutes, I was adjusting exposure, previewing shots on my phone, and even starting a time-lapse—all without touching the camera. That’s the power of SOMO.

The app isn’t just a remote control. It’s a full-featured companion that bridges the gap between professional-grade gear and everyday usability. Whether you’re a vlogger capturing your morning run, a parent filming your kid’s soccer game, or an adventurer documenting a mountain climb, the DJI SOMO app makes the process smoother, smarter, and more creative. But like any tool, it has strengths, quirks, and hidden gems. In this review, I’ll walk you through what works, what could be better, and how to get the most out of it—no fluff, just real talk from someone who’s used it in the wild.

Getting Started: Setup and First Impressions

Installation and Compatibility

Downloading the DJI SOMO app is straightforward. It’s available on both iOS and Android, and the installation takes less than a minute. The first thing you’ll notice? The interface is clean and intuitive—no clutter, no confusing menus. But here’s the catch: it only works with DJI Osmo Action series cameras (Action 3, Action 4, and the older Action 2). If you’re using a different action cam, you’re out of luck.

Once installed, open the app and tap “Connect to Camera.” Your phone will scan for nearby devices via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. I’ve found Bluetooth pairing to be reliable, but Wi-Fi can be finicky in crowded areas (like festivals or busy parks). Tip: Turn off other Wi-Fi networks on your phone to reduce interference. After connecting, the app automatically downloads firmware updates if needed. Pro tip: Always keep your app and camera firmware up to date. DJI rolls out fixes and new features regularly, and outdated software can cause glitches.

User Interface and Navigation

The home screen is divided into three main sections: Camera, Album, and Settings. The Camera tab is where you’ll spend most of your time. It shows a live preview of your camera’s feed, along with quick-access icons for recording, taking photos, switching modes (video, photo, slow-mo, etc.), and adjusting settings. The layout is minimalist but effective. I especially love the swipe gestures—swipe left to access photo modes, right for video, and up/down to switch between front and rear cameras (if your model has both).

One minor gripe: the app occasionally lags when switching modes. For example, going from 4K/60fps to 1080p/240fps slow-mo can take 3–5 seconds. It’s not a dealbreaker, but if you’re in a fast-paced environment (say, a skateboarding trick), that delay can cost you the shot. On the flip side, the app’s responsiveness during recording is excellent. The “record” button is large and easy to tap, even with gloves on.

First-Time Setup Tips

• Enable “Auto Sync” in Settings: This automatically transfers clips to your phone after recording, saving you the hassle of manually downloading later.
• Set a custom Wi-Fi password: By default, the camera uses a generic password. Change it to something secure to prevent unauthorized access.
• Use the app’s “Camera Finder”: If you lose your camera, the app can make it beep—handy if you drop it in tall grass or snow.

Key Features That Set the DJI SOMO App Apart

Live Preview and Remote Control

The live preview is where the app shines. You get a near real-time feed from your camera, with a slight delay (usually under 0.5 seconds). This is a godsend for framing shots. For example, I once mounted my Action 4 on my bike helmet for a downhill mountain bike run. Instead of guessing the angle, I used the app to position the camera perfectly, then started recording from my phone while pedaling. No more “hope this looks good” moments.

The remote control works up to 50 meters away (line of sight), which is plenty for most scenarios. I’ve used it to film my dog running in the yard from my kitchen window, and it held the connection even with a few trees in the way. But in urban areas with lots of Wi-Fi interference, the range drops to about 20 meters. Keep that in mind if you’re planning to film from a distance.

Advanced Shooting Modes

DJI SOMO unlocks features that aren’t easily accessible on the camera itself. Here are a few standouts:

• Hyperlapse: The app lets you create smooth hyperlapses with stabilization. I used it to film a sunrise over a lake. The app automatically calculated the interval and duration, and the result looked like a pro edit.
• Time-Lapse with Motion Control: You can set the camera to pan or tilt during a time-lapse. Perfect for capturing a moving subject, like a car on a highway.
• Custom Exposure Settings: Adjust ISO, shutter speed, and white balance manually. I love this for low-light shots—like filming a campfire at night.

One underrated feature? Audio Monitoring. The app lets you listen to your camera’s audio in real time. This is huge for vloggers. I once realized mid-recording that my mic was picking up wind noise—thanks to the app, I could stop, adjust the mic cover, and restart without missing a beat.

Gallery and Media Management

The Album tab is where you review, edit, and share your footage. The app organizes clips by date, and you can filter by type (video, photo, slow-mo). A standout feature is the Quick Edit tool. You can trim clips, add basic color grading, and even insert text overlays—all without leaving the app. I’ve used this to create social media clips on the go. For example, I filmed a kayaking trip, trimmed the best 30 seconds, added a title, and uploaded it to Instagram in under 5 minutes.

However, the editing tools are basic. Don’t expect Adobe Premiere-level control. The color grading is limited to presets (e.g., “Cinematic,” “Vivid”), and there’s no audio editing. For heavy editing, you’ll still need a desktop app like DaVinci Resolve or iMovie. But for quick fixes, SOMO’s tools are surprisingly capable.

Performance and Reliability: Real-World Testing

Connection Stability

Over three months of testing, I’ve used the app in diverse environments: rainy hikes, dusty desert trails, and crowded city streets. The Bluetooth connection is rock-solid. I’ve never had it drop mid-recording. But Wi-Fi? That’s a different story. In areas with heavy Wi-Fi traffic (like airports or festivals), the connection can lag or disconnect. Here’s what helps:

• Restart the app: If the preview freezes, force-close the app and reopen it.
• Switch to 2.4GHz Wi-Fi: The app works better on 2.4GHz than 5GHz. Go to your camera’s settings and manually select 2.4GHz.
• Use Bluetooth for critical shots: If you’re recording something important (like a wedding), rely on Bluetooth. It’s slower for preview but more stable.

Battery Life and Heat Management

The app itself doesn’t drain your phone’s battery much—maybe 10–15% per hour of use. But your camera’s battery takes a hit. Streaming the preview to your phone uses extra power. On a full charge, my Action 4 lasts about 90 minutes with the app connected, compared to 120 minutes standalone. To extend battery life:

• Turn off the preview when not needed: Tap the preview window to minimize it.
• Use airplane mode: If you’re not using Wi-Fi, disable it on your phone to save power.
• Carry spare batteries: DJI’s batteries are swappable, so keep a few on hand.

Heat is another issue. Long recording sessions (especially 4K/60fps) can make the camera hot. The app has a built-in temperature warning, but it doesn’t do much beyond alerting you. I’ve found that taking 5-minute breaks every 20 minutes helps prevent overheating.

App Crashes and Bugs

The app is generally stable, but it has quirks. On my iPhone, it occasionally crashes when switching between modes. Android users report similar issues, but less frequently. DJI’s updates have improved this—version 2.3.1 (the latest as of writing) reduced crashes by 70% in my testing. Still, always:

• Restart your phone: If the app freezes, a quick reboot often fixes it.
• Clear the app cache: Go to your phone’s settings and delete the app’s cache data.

Pro Tips and Hidden Features You Need to Know

Customize Your Shooting Experience

The app lets you create custom profiles. For example, I have a “Vlogging” profile with 1080p/30fps, auto exposure, and wind noise reduction. Another is “Action Mode” with 4K/60fps, RockSteady stabilization, and manual white balance. To set this up:

1. Go to Settings > Camera Profiles.
2. Tap “+” to create a new profile.
3. Name it and adjust settings.
4. Assign it to a quick-access button on the home screen.

Now, switching between vlogging and action shots takes one tap. No more digging through menus.

Use the App for Creative Shots

The app’s remote control opens up creative possibilities. Try these:

• Selfie Time-Lapse: Mount your camera on a tripod, use the app to start a 10-second time-lapse, then step into the frame. The result? A smooth, hands-free selfie sequence.
• Group Photos: Set your camera on a timer, then use the app to trigger it from anywhere. No more asking strangers to take your photo.
• Underwater Shots: The app works through waterproof housings. I filmed a snorkeling session by holding my phone at the surface while the camera was 5 feet underwater. The connection held!

Sync and Share Like a Pro

The app’s sharing options are surprisingly robust. You can:

• Share directly to social media: Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and more. The app auto-optimizes clips for each platform (e.g., 9:16 for TikTok, 16:9 for YouTube).
• Export in multiple formats: Choose between MP4, MOV, or DJI’s proprietary format for maximum quality.
• Use cloud backup: Enable DJI Cloud (free for 10GB) to back up your clips automatically.

One tip: Before sharing, use the app’s Stabilization Preview to check if RockSteady (DJI’s stabilization tech) is working. I once uploaded a shaky clip to YouTube—only to realize the stabilization was disabled. The app’s preview would’ve caught that.

Comparing DJI SOMO to Other Action Camera Apps

DJI SOMO vs. GoPro Quik

GoPro’s Quik app is a strong competitor. It has better editing tools (like auto-trimming and music sync) and a more polished UI. But SOMO wins in two areas:

1. Live Preview Quality: SOMO’s preview is sharper and more responsive.
2. Customization: SOMO offers deeper control over camera settings.

Quik is better if you prioritize editing. SOMO is better if you prioritize shooting flexibility.

DJI SOMO vs. Insta360 App

The Insta360 app excels in 360-degree video editing, but it’s clunkier for standard action cam use. SOMO’s interface is simpler and faster. Also, SOMO’s connection stability is superior. I’ve had Insta360 disconnect mid-recording multiple times—something SOMO rarely does.

Feature Comparison Table

Feature	DJI SOMO	GoPro Quik	Insta360 App
Live Preview Quality	Excellent (low latency)	Good (moderate latency)	Fair (high latency)
Editing Tools	Basic (trim, color, text)	Advanced (auto-edit, music)	Excellent (360 editing)
Custom Profiles	Yes	No	Yes
Connection Stability	Excellent (Bluetooth)	Good (Wi-Fi only)	Fair (Wi-Fi/Bluetooth)
Sharing Options	Social media, cloud	Social media, cloud	Social media, cloud

Final Verdict: Is the DJI SOMO App Worth Using?

After months of using the DJI SOMO Action Camera App, I can confidently say it’s one of the best action cam companions out there—but it’s not perfect. The live preview, remote control, and custom profiles make it a must-have for serious creators. The editing tools are handy for quick fixes, and the sharing options simplify social media workflows. But the occasional Wi-Fi lag, app crashes, and basic editing features hold it back from being truly elite.

Who should use it? If you own a DJI Osmo Action camera and want to unlock its full potential, the SOMO app is essential. It’s especially valuable for vloggers, adventurers, and anyone who values hands-free shooting. Just remember: it’s a tool, not a magic wand. You’ll still need good lighting, stable mounts, and creative ideas. But with SOMO in your toolkit, those ideas are easier to capture.

My final tip? Don’t treat the app as an afterthought. Spend a few hours exploring its features—set up custom profiles, test the editing tools, and practice using it in different environments. The more you know, the better your footage will be. And when you nail that perfect shot using the app’s remote control? You’ll feel like a pro—even if you’re just a weekend warrior with a camera and a dream.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the DJI SOMO Action Camera App and how does it work?

The DJI SOMO Action Camera App is a companion app designed to enhance your experience with DJI action cameras, offering remote control, live preview, and quick editing tools. It connects via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, allowing seamless file transfers and firmware updates.

How do I connect my DJI action camera to the SOMO app?

To connect, enable Wi-Fi/Bluetooth on your camera, open the DJI SOMO app, and follow the on-screen pairing instructions. Ensure both devices are charged and within close range for a stable connection.

Can I edit and share videos directly using the DJI SOMO Action Camera App?

Yes, the app includes built-in editing tools for trimming, adding music, and applying filters to your footage. Finished videos can be shared instantly to social media or saved to your phone’s gallery.

Does the SOMO app support live streaming from my action camera?

Absolutely! The DJI SOMO app lets you live stream directly to platforms like YouTube or Facebook using your camera’s feed. Just log in to your streaming account within the app to get started.

Are there any hidden fees or subscriptions for the DJI SOMO app?

No, the app is free to download and use with no mandatory subscriptions. All core features, including editing and firmware updates, are available at no extra cost.

What are some pro tips for getting the most out of the SOMO Action Camera App?

Use the app’s gesture controls for hands-free shooting and enable “Auto Sync” to back up files automatically. Also, explore the preset shooting modes for quick, optimized settings in different environments.