Beyond smartphones: OPPO is working on a camera with an integrated gimbal to challenge DJI and Insta360

The Chinese company is preparing to expand its tech horizons by officially entering the market of portable imaging devices. This is an understandable move given OPPO‘s ability to leverage its expertise in mobile photography to compete in a segment previously dominated by brands specialized in action cameras and stabilizers.

The main objective is to offer a compact and cutting-edge solution for content creation, addressing the growing demand for stabilized and high-quality recording tools for vlogging and everyday use.

OPPO challenges the imaging giants: an integrated-gimbal camera coming soon

The project is known internally by the codename Fuyao and has already received approval for the development of a portable camera equipped with an integrated gimbal. According to the latest rumors, OPPO would be investing significant resources in this new category, with an official debut expected in the fourth quarter of 2026.

Many industry analysts speculate that the device’s presentation could occur in October, in conjunction with the launch of the new Find X10 series, thereby creating a complete and interconnected imaging ecosystem. This strategy would allow OPPO to directly challenge market leaders such as DJI and Insta360, who currently hold approximately the 62% and 12% of the global market share, respectively.

The company can count on a series of competitive advantages, including proprietary imaging algorithms already optimized for smartphones and powerful AI systems dedicated to managing visual data. Additionally, control over the supply chain and a wide, already consolidated retail network could allow the Chinese company to offer an advanced shooting experience at competitive prices.

The global market for portable smart cameras, which includes panoramic models and action cams, is expanding rapidly and has reached over 16 million units shipped in 2025, with gimbals proving to be the fastest-growing category.

Let us note that OPPO is not the only smartphone company looking with interest at this sector: Vivo has in store an action camera, whose debut is expected during 2026.