The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 automatically splits long recordings when a video file approaches 16GB. The important part is that the camera does not stop recording just because one file reaches that size.
Does the Pocket 3 stop recording at 16GB?
No. DJI says the camera automatically creates a new file when the current recording approaches 16GB. The split is designed to happen without reducing video quality.
Why does DJI split the file?
DJI explains that newer Osmo products moved away from the older 4GB split behavior and now split at about 16GB. DJI says very large files increase the risk of losing more footage if an exception or file problem occurs, so splitting long recordings limits the amount of footage tied to one file.
How often will files split?
That depends on bitrate. A higher-bitrate recording reaches 16GB sooner than a lower-bitrate mode.
For example, at 100 Mbps, 16GB is roughly 21 minutes of data before overhead. At 130 Mbps, it is closer to 16 or 17 minutes. Real split timing can vary with recording mode and file behavior.
Will there be a gap between the files?
DJI describes the split as automatic and lossless. The recording continues while the camera starts the next file. In editing software, the files can be placed back-to-back on a timeline.
Does using a larger microSD card prevent splitting?
No. A larger card increases total available recording time, but it does not remove the camera’s file-splitting behavior.
Why this matters for long events
If you record conferences, ceremonies, performances, or long static shots, you may end up with several files from what felt like one continuous recording. That is normal behavior, not necessarily a camera failure or card problem.
Related Pocket 3 guides
- DJI Osmo Pocket 3 practical reference
- What microSD card does the Pocket 3 need?
- Video bitrate and file size explained
- Pocket 3 4K/120 recording limits