GoPro has unveiled an exciting new lineup of products, signaling a strategic shift in its offerings. The announcement highlights three key innovations: the highly anticipated MAX2 360-degree camera, a compact LIT HERO action camera designed for lifestyle content, and a versatile, AI-enhanced Fluid Pro AI gimbal. This year marks a notable change in the brand's approach, as it prioritizes these new devices over the traditional annual release of a flagship HERO action camera, choosing instead to build upon the success of last year's HERO13 Black model.
Leading this new product wave is the GoPro MAX2, a successor to the original GoPro MAX from 2019. Unlike its predecessor, which served as a multi-use camera, the MAX2 is engineered as a dedicated 360-degree camera. It boasts impressive specifications, including the capability to capture \"True 8K\" video, a feature GoPro emphasizes as delivering full 8K resolution in usable pixels, distinguishing it from competitors such as the Insta360 X5 and DJI Osmo 360. The company claims the MAX2 offers a significant resolution improvement over these rivals, specifically 16% and 23% respectively.
Beyond its high-resolution video capture, the MAX2 incorporates advanced imaging features like 10-Bit Color processing and GP Log encoding. Its six integrated microphones enable 360-degree audio recording, giving both professional videographers and enthusiastic hobbyists greater flexibility in refining their footage's visual and auditory quality. A practical design element is the camera's dual lenses, which are easily replaceable with a \"Twist-and-Go\" mechanism, providing durability and repairability for users engaged in extreme sports and dynamic activities.
The MAX2 further enhances its functionality with the ability to take 29-megapixel 360-degree still photos, allowing for extensive cropping and zooming without compromising image quality. Integrated artificial intelligence powers features such as \"AI Object Tracking\" and \"MotionFrame,\" offering diverse options for content creation. Equipped with a robust 1,960mAh battery, the MAX2 is optimized for challenging weather conditions and includes built-in GPS, a unique offering in the 360 camera market, according to GoPro.
Accompanying the MAX2 is the new GoPro LIT HERO, a mini action camera tailored for lifestyle enthusiasts. This compact device records 4K video at up to 60 frames per second and supports 2x slow-motion capture. True to GoPro's reputation, the LIT HERO is waterproof, submersible up to 16 feet (5 meters), and weighs a mere 93 grams (3.28 ounces). It offers up to 100 minutes of recording time at its highest setting on a single charge.
GoPro has also introduced the Fluid Pro AI gimbal, an advanced follow-up to its 2016 Karma Grip. A key improvement is its universal compatibility, working with a wide array of devices including smartphones and point-and-shoot cameras weighing up to 400 grams (0.88 pounds), eliminating the need for creators to carry multiple stabilizing devices. This 3-axis gimbal features interchangeable mounts, an integrated fill light, and an impressive 18-hour battery life, with reverse-charging capabilities to power other devices.
The MAX2 and LIT HERO cameras are now available for pre-order through GoPro's official website. The MAX2 is priced at £449.99 GBP / $499.99 USD, with shipping commencing on September 30. The LIT HERO retails for £239.99 GBP / $269.99 USD, and deliveries begin on October 21. The GoPro Fluid Pro AI gimbal will be released on October 21, priced at $229.99 USD.