GoPro Launches New Hero8 Black and Max Action Cameras

GoPro has launched two new action cameras, the Hero8 Black and the Max, offering a host of new features including advanced stabilization and under water capabilities.

The HERO8 Black builds upon the success of its predecessor and brings unparalleled performance such as GoPro’s HyperSmooth 2.0 video stabilization to deliver dramatically improved pitch-axis stabilization and now supports all frame rates and resolutions, while the company’s TimeWarp 2.0 auto adjusts to your speed that can be slowed to real time with a tap.

Additionally, the revamped SuperPhoto feature delivers ghost-free HDR action photos, and the all-new LiveBurst captures 1.5 seconds of 12MP (4K 4:3) footage before and after the shutter. And if you need to hear it to believe it, the HERO8 Black’s new wind-optimized front-facing mic and high-fidelity bring audio to a new level. 

Plus, new digital lenses help to set up the shot like a pro every time with one of four options—ranging from GoPro’s patented SuperView to zero-distortion linear—and customizable capture presets provide quick access to settings for any activity.

All of this is housed in a streamlined, frameless design with folding mounting fingers.

HERO8 Black can also be transformed into a vlogging or production powerhouse with GoPro’s new modular accessory ecosystem. The Mods enable on-demand expansion of HERO8 Black’s capabilities without sacrificing the signature compact, ruggedness of the HERO camera design.

• Media Mod: The $79.99 Media Mod delivers shotgun-mic directional audio performance and features two cold shoe mounts for additional accessories along with Type-C, HDMI and 3.5mm external mic adapter ports.
• Display Mod: The $79.99 Display Mod is a folding front- or rear-facing 1.90-inch display that attaches to the top of the Media Mod. It’s the perfect size for both framing up vlogging shots and folding down and out of the way when not in use.
• Light Mod: Waterproof to 33 feet (10 meters), wearable and gear-mountable, the $49.99 Light Mod is the world’s most versatile light. The Light Mod is ready to brighten any scene, whether mounted to the Media Mod or attached to a GoPro mount, it’s rechargeable, and it comes complete with a diffuser to soften lighting when filming with HERO8 Black.

The new Hero 8 is available for pre-order directly from GoPro for $399 (€430), with pricing for US market for the Media Mod, Display Mod and Light Mod kits to be announced at a later date.

According to GoPro, its new MAX is an action that’s so versatile, it’s like having three cameras in one.

Waterproof to 16 feet (5 meters), the MAX can be used as a single lens max stabilized HERO camera, a dual lens 360 camera or the ultimate vlogging camera—all in one. Moreover, the MAX also features GoPro’s Max HyperSmooth technology, which offers unparalleled stabilization and in-camera horizon leveling that completely eliminates the need for a gimbal, while the Max TimeWarp bends time and space with expanded control and performance over traditional TimeWarp.

There’s also the Max SuperView that delivers GoPro’s widest, most immersive field of view yet.

In addition, when creating 360 edits, MAX users now have Reframe, a new keyframe-based editing tool courtesy of GoPro’s app, making it easier to “reframe” 360 footage into a traditional video with super-smooth pans and transitions. Also, Reframe matches the power of desktop 360 editing solutions thanks to the convenience and usability of the GoPro app.

“And when it comes to vlogging, MAX is a complete solution with its unbreakable video stabilization, four digital lenses for the ideal “look”, front-facing touch screen for easy framing, and six mics that enable shotgun-mic audio performance. Add one-click 270° PowerPano photos, in-camera 360 video and photo stitching, and the convenience of Reframe, and MAX is truly like no other camera in the world,” says GoPro.

The new Max sells for $500, which comes with a protective travel case, two stick-on mounts and the mini GoPro selfie grip/tripod.