GoPro Labs firmware updates offer more ways to start (and stop) its cameras. Like other features created in its Labs, how much of an impact they have depends on each user.
Adventure enthusiasts now have more control over their GoPro cameras, from conserving the battery to dumbing down the recording process. After all, most action shots require paying attention to other things.
Part of the point behind these specialized updates is that they make things better for niche users. How they’re used among wider audiences is hard to predict.
We can envision new end uses, particularly with the motion triggers. Hunters can use a GoPro like a game camera; skateboarders or bikers can set up a camera and have it record only when they’re in the frame.
And no more dead batteries because you forgot to hit “stop” during a snack or beer break. It saves storage, battery, and time spent editing.
Inevitably, someone will capture wild dashcam footage thanks to a new USB-powered activation. Or prevent accidental mode changes and camera shot snafus with a one-button mode. Here’s everything new.
New GoPro Capabilities
The GoPro Labs firmware works with the HERO9 Black, HERO8 Black, HERO7 Black, and GoPro MAX. Here are the details:
- Camera motion triggers: An accelerometer and/or gyroscope triggers the start/stop capture upon sensing motion.
- USB power triggers: Enables USB-triggered start/stop functions like serving as a dashcam.
- Motion-detection enhancements: Motion detection is now supported in all video modes, including 360-degree motion detection on MAX.
- Simplified livestreaming QR code: Start livestreaming once connected to a designated Wi-Fi network.
- Single-setting one-button mode: A one-button mode where the operator can only start/stop capture to avoid accidental mode changes.
- New exposure modes: Set timed exposure lock and minimum shutter speed settings.
- New QR code controls: QR code controls in 5K and HindSight capture for HERO9 Black.
Again, some of these features are updates to newer models and firmware, but the ability to further customize settings, and save them, will unlock more possibilities for the brand’s creative users. Perhaps to hurry up some new uses, the brand is inviting users to compete in its Anything Awesome Challenge, with cash rewards as more incentive.
The new firmware is compatible with the HERO9 Black, HERO8 Black, HERO7 Black, and GoPro MAX. It can be downloaded at GoPro.com/Labs, which has more information on these and previous experimental updates.
