INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
GoPro has released new versions of both its Hero line and its newer 360-degree ruggedized action cameras
The $399 GoPro Hero8 Black most significant change is that it gains a new body design that incorporates GoPro signature mounting system
right into the case, so that you no longer need add-on frames to attach it to selfie sticks, suction mounts, body mounts and more.
The GoPro
Hero8 Black shoots at resolutions between 1080p and 4K, and also gains HyperSmooth 2.0, the aptly named second-generation version of GoPro
proprietary digital stabilization technology
The first version, which premiered on the GoPro Hero7, was hailed for its effectiveness, and the follow-up is apparently even more powerful
— plus, it provides new adjustment options so you can tweak how aggressive it is.
GoPro proprietary variable speed recording mode TimeWarp
also gets upgraded to 2.0, and there better on-board wind suppression for mic-free recording
The body changes mean that the lens is no longer removable, but GoPro is planning to release a new mounting system for filters soon to make
up for this limitation.
On top of the new design, there a series of new aftermarket add-ons, which GoPro calls &Mods,& to provide add-on
There a Media Mod ($79.99) that includes a built-in shotgun mic; a Display Mod ($79.99), which has a flip-up LCD viewfinder for vlogging;
and a Light Mod ($49.99), which has a 200 lumen LED continuous video light source.
The other new camera, the GoPro MAX, is a $499 successor
to the GoPro Fusion, and provides 360 capture
It designed to also produce great single lens, traditional wide-angle footage, and has its own version of HyperSmooth stabilization called
Max HyperSmooth (which you know must be extreme because it called &Max&).
The MAX seems less oriented at 360 video and more at advanced
content creators who want maximum editing flexibility and the ability to more easily vlog, as it also includes a front-facing display.
GoPro
faces increased competition from legit sources in their home category, including competing devices from DJI and Insta360, but the slate of
new upgrades here really do sound like quality, meaningful improvements versusthe existing Hero7, and the new all-in-one body design should
make it even more convenient for general use while out on the go.
Pre-orders are live now for the cameras, with shipping starting on October
15 for the GoPro Hero8, and shipments for the Max starting on October 24.
