Oppo is reportedly preparing to enter the handheld smart imaging device market with a new gimbal camera product. According to a report from China’s Blue Whale Media, the company has internally begun development of a dedicated device that could compete with compact cameras already offered in this category. This means Oppo to enter in gimbal camera market as a major new player. The move leverages Oppo’s strong imaging experience from its smartphone division.
Fuyao project said to be approved
Citing sources familiar with the matter, the report said Oppo has approved the project internally under the codename “Fuyao.” The product is expected to launch in the fourth quarter of this year. Reports also suggest the Oppo Find X10 series could debut in October, and the company may introduce its first gimbal camera during the same event. Oppo is reportedly allocating major resources to the category, with its imaging experience seen as one of the main reasons for the move. When Oppo to enter in gimbal camera market, it brings serious firepower.
Other smartphone brands are also active
The report claimed other smartphone makers are also preparing similar products. Vivo is said to have started work on its own handheld gimbal camera project late last year, with the prototype already completing the moulding stage. Honor has already entered the segment through its ecosystem platform. Vivo is also reportedly developing a separate vlogging camera that could launch alongside the Vivo X500 series in September. Smartphone brands see opportunity in this growing segment.
Market competition may increase
Industry analysts believe the arrival of smartphone brands could reshape a market currently led by DJI and Insta360. They said smartphone makers may benefit from strengths such as imaging algorithms, AI processing, supply chain control, and strong offline retail networks. These advantages could help them offer advanced camera features in compact devices at competitive prices. Oppo to enter in gimbal camera market could disrupt the current duopoly.
Market growth continues
According to IDC data cited in the report, global shipments of handheld smart cameras reached 16.65 million units in 2025. The segment posted strong annual growth, with gimbal cameras identified as the fastest-growing category. DJI reportedly held around 62 percent market share, while Insta360 accounted for nearly 12 percent.