Meet the New Payloads: DJI Zenmuse S1 & V1 Now Available for the Matrice 350 RTK

In April 2025, DJI launched two specialized payloads built for real-world public safety and industrial applications: the Zenmuse S1 spotlight and Zenmuse V1 speaker. These aren’t just accessories—they’re tactical tools designed to extend the DJI Matrice 350 RTK into low-visibility, high-risk, and fast-moving operations. Whether it’s a night-time search and rescue, a barricade standoff, or a post-storm infrastructure sweep, the S1 and V1 deliver the light and voice your team needs—right when it matters most.

To see these payloads in action, watch DJI’s official demo: Zenmuse S1 & V1 Overview Video

DJI’s Zenmuse V1 speaker and Zenmuse S1 spotlight, when paired with the Matrice 350 RTK, transform the drone into a fully integrated aerial alert and illumination system—no additional aircraft or support crew needed.

This guide breaks down what makes the Zenmuse S1 and V1 mission-ready, how they integrate with DJI’s ecosystem, and why they’re worth serious consideration for any agency or enterprise drone team.

Which Drones Work with the Zenmuse S1 and V1? Here’s the Answer

If you're planning to integrate the new Zenmuse payloads into your existing workflow, here's what you need to know up front. DJI kept things simple and seamless—these payloads are fully compatible with the Matrice 350 RTK, no extra adapters or firmware workarounds needed.

Feature	Zenmuse S1	Zenmuse V1
Supported Platform	DJI Matrice 350 RTK	DJI Matrice 350 RTK
Gimbal Mount	DJI SkyPort V2.0	DJI SkyPort V2.0
Software Integration	DJI Pilot 2, FlightHub 2	DJI Pilot 2, FlightHub 2

Supported Platform:
The Zenmuse S1 and Zenmuse V1 are built exclusively for the DJI Matrice 350 RTK. This pairing is intentional—the M350’s endurance, weather resistance, and modularity make it the ideal airframe for spotlight and speaker operations in industrial and public safety scenarios.

Gimbal Mount Compatibility:
Both payloads use the DJI SkyPort V2.0 gimbal connector, which enables direct plug-and-play installation. No retrofitting, no custom mounts. This ensures secure, stable integration with full access to power and data transmission protocols.

System Integration:
The Zenmuse S1 and V1 are natively supported within DJI’s enterprise software ecosystem, including DJI Pilot 2 for live mission control, FlightHub 2 for cloud-based coordination, and the Matrice 350 RTK’s onboard payload management systems. All functions—light beam angle, audio playback, volume, and even real-time toggling—are accessible directly from the controller interface.

This streamlined compatibility reduces setup time, eliminates system conflicts, and gives field teams confidence that every component—from payload to flight control—is fully synced and mission-ready out of the box.

Zenmuse S1: Precision Illumination for High-Stakes Missions

Low-light environments are often the most dangerous and the most difficult to operate in. Whether you're navigating disaster zones, locating missing persons, or inspecting infrastructure after dark, visibility is non-negotiable. The DJI Zenmuse S1 steps in as a purpose-built, gimbal-mounted spotlight engineered for precision illumination in complex, real-world conditions.

Key Specs & Capabilities

Feature	Value
Ingress Protection	IP54
Illuminance Output	26,300 lux at 10m
Effective Range	Up to 150m in Night Vision Mode
Lighting Modes	Always On, Flashing, SOS
Power	48W

Ingress Protection:
The Zenmuse S1 is IP54 rated, meaning it's protected against dust and water splashes—ideal for field operations in unpredictable weather without compromising performance.

Illuminance Output:
Delivers an intense 26,300 lux at 10 meters (center point), making it one of the most powerful aerial spotlights in its class. That’s enough to light up a remote target area from a safe standoff distance.

Effective Range:
In Night Vision Mode, the S1 can effectively illuminate up to 150 meters, significantly enhancing visibility for ground teams and visual sensors alike.

Lighting Modes:
The S1 features three selectable modes:

• Always On for continuous lighting
• Flashing for area alerts or signaling
• SOS mode for distress identification or emergency beaconing

Power:
Runs at 48W output, optimized for both brightness and energy efficiency during extended missions.

Tactical Use Cases

• Search & Rescue (SAR):
  Enhance victim visibility in collapsed structures, forested terrain, or night operations. The S1’s reach allows operators to spot movement, clothing, or reflectors without direct line-of-sight.
• Crowd Control & Law Enforcement:
  Provide real-time illumination for teams managing events or unfolding incidents at night. Its flashing mode doubles as a visual deterrent or alerting signal.
• Disaster Response:
  Cut through fog, smoke, or dust in post-storm, fire, or earthquake zones where natural light and ground access are limited. This gives UAV operators eyes where responders can’t immediately go.

Fogging Prevention and Durability

The Zenmuse S1 is designed for real-world durability. It includes anti-fog features and thermal management systems that prevent lens condensation during sudden temperature shifts or prolonged use. This helps maintain a clear beam and reduces the chance of mission disruption due to visibility issues.

Operational Precautions

To ensure safe and effective use of the Zenmuse S1:

• Avoid direct eye exposure to the spotlight during operation—it is bright enough to cause temporary blindness or discomfort.
• Do not operate in heavy rain or submerge the payload in water. While IP54 offers decent resistance, it's not waterproof.
• Let the unit cool after extended continuous operation to avoid overheating and maintain long-term performance.

Why It Matters

In mission environments where every second and every inch of visibility counts, the Zenmuse S1 gives operators the upper hand. It expands the operational window for drone crews working in nighttime, no-light, or visually compromised scenarios, improving both safety and situational awareness. When paired with the Matrice 350 RTK, this spotlight becomes more than a visual aid—it becomes a mission-critical tool.

Zenmuse V1: A Speaker Built for Mission-Ready Messaging

In high-stakes operations, communication can’t wait. Whether you're directing evacuees, coordinating ground teams, or issuing public alerts, a drone-mounted speaker transforms your aircraft into a voice on the ground. The DJI Zenmuse V1 is a powerful, IP-rated speaker payload designed for mission-critical environments—where clarity, reach, and message control can directly impact outcomes.

Key Specs & Capabilities

Feature	Details
Ingress Protection	IP54
Max Volume	120 dB @ 1m
Effective Range	Up to 200m (calm conditions)
Languages Supported	English, Chinese, French, Spanish, German, Japanese, Korean, and more
Playback Modes	Text-to-Speech, Real-time Voice, Audio File Playback

Ingress Protection:
With an IP54 rating, the Zenmuse V1 resists dust and splashes, making it suitable for a range of outdoor and semi-harsh environments. It’s weather-tolerant enough for first response or industrial use without needing perfect conditions.

Maximum Volume:
Capable of reaching 120 dB at 1 meter, the V1 projects clear, intelligible sound over large areas—loud enough to be heard over light machinery, wind, and environmental noise.

Effective Sound Range:
In calm conditions, messages can be heard up to 200 meters away. This makes it ideal for covering wide areas with minimal drone repositioning.

Text-to-Speech Language Support:
The V1 supports a wide range of languages, including English, Chinese, French, Spanish, German, Japanese, Korean, and more. This multilingual capability enables agencies to deliver instructions that match the needs of diverse populations.

Playback Modes:
The Zenmuse V1 supports three distinct modes:

• Text-to-Speech (TTS): Type and transmit on the fly
• Real-time Voice Transmission: Speak live through the controller mic
• Audio File Playback: Upload and broadcast pre-recorded announcements

Tactical Use Cases

• Evacuation Alerts:
  Deliver loud, clear instructions to the public during emergencies such as wildfires, industrial spills, chemical leaks, or floods—especially when ground teams can’t cover all areas in time.
  
• Law Enforcement & Security:
  Issue warnings to suspects, disperse crowds, or guide lost persons during search-and-rescue operations without needing line-of-sight. The speaker helps reduce response time and increase officer safety from a distance.
  
• Industrial Announcements:
  Ideal for construction, mining, or energy sites—especially those with high noise levels. Use drones equipped with V1 speakers to relay messages over long distances or when visual communication isn’t feasible.

Operational Considerations

• Environmental Conditions:
  Wind and ambient noise may limit effective range. Always test audio in real-world conditions and be prepared to adjust drone position or volume settings accordingly.
• Line-of-Sight:
  While the V1 can project sound in multiple directions, maintaining a line-of-sight improves clarity and message intelligibility, especially during live broadcasts.
• Feedback Management:
  The V1 has built-in feedback suppression, but it’s best to avoid having the speaker hover near operators or audio input devices to prevent loop noise.

Why It Matters

The Zenmuse V1 makes drone fleets not just eyes in the sky, but voices on the ground. It enhances UAV utility across public safety, disaster response, and large-scale industrial projects. When integrated with the Matrice 350 RTK, the Zenmuse V1 provides an unmatched advantage in real-time aerial communication—replacing uncertainty with clarity when it matters most.

Why the Matrice 350 RTK Is the Ideal Host for Zenmuse V1 & S1

When mission success depends on both illumination and communication, you need more than just a capable payload—you need the right platform to support them. The DJI Matrice 350 RTK isn’t just compatible with the Zenmuse V1 speaker and S1 spotlight. It’s the only enterprise-grade drone in DJI’s current lineup that unlocks their full tactical potential—from simultaneous deployment to intelligent control and rugged, all-weather reliability.

With its modular design, multi-payload support, and seamless software integration, the Matrice 350 RTK gives professionals the tools to perform complex aerial operations that demand more than just a camera in the sky.

Key Matrice 350 Features That Unlock S1 & V1 Power

Key Features for Payloads

M350 RTK Feature	How it Enhances S1/V1
Dual Gimbal Mount	Allows simultaneous use of Zenmuse S1 and V1
O3 Enterprise Transmission	Low-latency live feed and real-time control
IP55 Rating	Enables operation in dust, rain, and fog
Extended Flight Time	Up to 55 minutes for extended missions
RC Plus Integration	Centralized control of spotlight and speaker
DJI Pilot 2 Compatibility	Payload switching and automation via mission macros

Payload Capacity:
The Matrice 350’s robust airframe supports dual downward gimbals, meaning operators can mount both the Zenmuse S1 and Zenmuse V1 at the same time. This makes it possible to fly missions where visibility and communication are needed simultaneously—critical for public safety, search and rescue, and disaster response.

O3 Enterprise Transmission:
DJI’s latest O3 Enterprise transmission system ensures low-latency, high-resolution live feeds and responsive command control for both the drone and payloads. That’s key when triggering light flashes, switching audio modes, or viewing real-time results in dense or high-interference areas.

IP55 Rating:
Rain, dust, or smoke? No problem. The Matrice 350’s IP55 ingress protection lets it operate in rough field conditions where smaller drones would be grounded. This is essential when using payloads like the S1 spotlight in foggy, dusty, or wet environments.

Extended Flight Time:
With up to 55 minutes of maximum flight time, the Matrice 350 can stay airborne longer than most tactical UAVs—crucial when conducting extended patrols, search sweeps, or area coverage with both payloads active.

Seamless Workflow Integration

• DJI Pilot 2 Compatibility:
  The Matrice 350 works natively with DJI Pilot 2, enabling intuitive payload switching, command presets, and custom macros—making it easy to operate light and audio simultaneously with minimal distraction.
• Centralized Control via RC Plus:
  With the RC Plus enterprise controller, operators can activate lights, trigger audio, adjust spotlight modes, or initiate broadcasts with simple, programmable UI elements—without toggling between apps or screens.
• Audio Logging and Playback:
  The system supports automatic recording of Zenmuse V1 audio broadcasts, helping agencies log mission communications for later documentation, analysis, or evidence.

The DJI Matrice 350 RTK isn’t just compatible with the Zenmuse V1 and S1—it’s the platform that makes their advanced features operationally viable in the field. Whether you're running dual-payload patrols, managing emergency comms, or lighting up night scenes in harsh conditions, the Matrice 350 gives teams the endurance, reliability, and control needed to turn these payloads into real-world mission assets.

Read on to learn more about the game-changing features of the DJI M350 RTK drone and how it can help in your missions.

Real-World Missions That Demand the Zenmuse V1 and S11

The real strength of the DJI Zenmuse V1 and S1 lies in how they solve problems across high-pressure, real-world environments. From public safety to infrastructure and agriculture, these payloads enable faster decision-making, safer operations, and better field communication—especially when time, visibility, or distance are working against you.

Public Safety

• Missing Persons Searches:
  In night operations or low-light terrain, the Zenmuse S1 spotlight provides broad, focused illumination to help first responders spot missing individuals without needing to fly dangerously low.
• Tactical Response & Barricade Situations:
  Law enforcement teams can deploy the Zenmuse V1 speaker to issue commands or warnings from above—reducing risk to officers and allowing for communication even behind cover or through barriers.

Disaster Response

• Wildfire Evacuation Zones:
  In chaotic, smoke-filled zones, the S1’s powerful beam cuts through haze, while the V1 can broadcast live or pre-recorded evacuation orders over large areas, guiding civilians to safety.
• Earthquake Search & Rescue:
  In collapsed or unstable areas, responders can use the S1 to visually inspect from a safe height, while the V1 projects audio instructions to survivors trapped under debris or out of line-of-sight.

Utilities & Infrastructure

• Power Line & Substation Inspections:
  The S1 enhances visibility during dusk or fog, ensuring inspectors can identify potential faults or heat anomalies. Meanwhile, the V1 aids in real-time crew coordination, especially when visual cues are compromised.
• Bridge, Rail, and Tower Work:
  For large-scale inspections, the S1 allows for precise spotlighting of structural components, and the V1 can be used to relay instructions to ground teams or warn civilians to stay clear of work areas.

Agriculture & Forestry

• Herd or Livestock Management:
  Farms and ranches can use the Zenmuse V1 to broadcast sound cues over large areas—ideal for guiding herds or alerting field workers.
• Night Monitoring & Perimeter Checks:
  The S1 enables visual checks of irrigation systems, fences, and perimeter areas without needing to drive or walk the field after dark.

Whether it’s search and rescue, infrastructure patrols, or operational coordination, these payloads help teams work smarter, faster, and safer—especially when visibility or communication is critical.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What drones are compatible with DJI Zenmuse V1 and S1?

Only the DJI Matrice 350 RTK, using the SkyPort V2.0 gimbal mount.

What are the operating environments for DJI Zenmuse V1 and S1?

• S1: -10°C to 50°C
• V1: -10°C to 40°C

Can both DJI Zenmuse V1 and S1 be used at once?

Yes, both DJI Zenmuse V1 and S1 can be used at once with dual gimbal configuration on the M350 RTK.

Can the DJI ZenmuseV1 play custom audio?

Yes. Upload files via DJI Pilot 2 or use text-to-speech in multiple languages.

Final Thoughts: Should You Upgrade?

If your operations depend on fast, accurate decision-making in unpredictable environments, then yes—this upgrade isn’t just recommended, it’s necessary.

The DJI Zenmuse S1 and Zenmuse V1 transform the Matrice 350 RTK from a capable drone into a fully equipped aerial response platform. Whether you’re tracking missing persons at night, coordinating field crews over loud industrial zones, or conducting inspections in fog, smoke, or low-visibility terrain—these payloads provide the visual clarity and audible command your teams need to respond with precision.

With seamless integration, real-time payload control, and all-weather readiness, the S1 and V1 aren’t extras. They’re essential upgrades for agencies and operators serious about expanding their aerial capabilities without compromise.