> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.spexi.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.spexi.com/get-started/what-you-need-to-fly.md).

# What You Need to Fly

### License Requirements

In the USA, pilots are required to have a [part 107 license](https://www.faa.gov/uas/commercial_operators/become_a_drone_pilot); In some countries (like Canada), pilots flying sub-250g drones may be able to operate without a formal license but you must still fly safely and within local rules.

🇨🇦 Canada – No license required, but knowledge of local airspace rules is recommended.\
To learn more about Canadian drone regulations, [click here](https://tc.canada.ca/en/aviation/drone-safety/learn-rules-you-fly-your-drone/flying-your-drone-safely-legally).

🇺🇸 United States – A Part 107 license is required to fly commercially.\
To learn more about USA drone regulations, [click here](https://www.faa.gov/uas).

### Compatible Equipment

Your drone setup must be compatible with the Spexi App:

* **Supported drones:** DJI Mini 2, Mini 3, Mini 3 Pro, or Mini 4 Pro (sub-250g class)

{% hint style="info" %}
UPDATE: DJI Mini 2 will no longer be supported after May 31st 2026
{% endhint %}

* **Controller:** Must use a mobile device-based controller (e.g., DJI RC-N1, RC-N2, or RC-N3). Controllers with built-in screens are not supported.
* **SD Card:** Cards rated at least U3 / V30 are recommended. These ratings guarantee a minimum sustained write speed of 30MB/s for rapid photo capture. Endurance-rated cards (Max Endurance, PRO Endurance) are built for continuous writing and will maintain their performance significantly longer under heavy use.

<figure><img src="/files/n1lXyPWEcT5ldpBOXolY" alt="" width="563"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

* **Android Mobile device:** Android device running the [Spexi App](https://explorer.spexi.com/download)&#x20;
* Computer with internet to upload image data to the [Spexi Explorer](https://explorer.spexi.com/). For the best experience, we recommend using Google Chrome or another Chromium-based browser (such as Microsoft Edge or Brave). These browsers provide the most reliable performance and compatibility with the Spexi Explorer.

<figure><img src="/files/NdzVY6evPWhgVdj1QLgj" alt="" width="375"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

{% hint style="info" icon="memo-circle-info" %}
There are two versions of the Spexi App: one for the [DJI Mini 2](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.spexigonmobile), and one for the [DJI Mini 3, 4, and Pro versions](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.spexigonmobile.sdk5). Make sure to download the right app for your drone.
{% endhint %}

{% embed url="<https://youtu.be/nQeOlNXw1-0>" %}

### Why Only Sub-250g Drones?&#x20;

We have chosen to standardize on the sub-250g drone class for a variety of reasons, including:

* They are easy to fly and have global distribution. We estimate there have been millions of DJI Mini 2 / Mini 3 / Mini 4 drones sold worldwide.
* During flight, they produce very little noise and are barely audible once they reach the altitude required for image capture.
* Many countries worldwide classify sub-250g drones as low risk, meaning pilots can fly them legally with fewer operating restrictions.

In the future, we plan to add more drone models and brands to the platform.

<figure><img src="/files/in7YiYvwXQTDdFNWOfRD" alt=""><figcaption><p>DJI Mini 3 PRO drone</p></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="/files/rvtqwXEf4LdZJR62XLsf" alt=""><figcaption><p>DJI Mini 2 drone</p></figcaption></figure>