GoPro is preparing to release a new affordable action camera in 2018, which is expected to replace its entry-level Hero 5 Session. Here’s everything we know about the new 2018 GoPro, including its speculative release date, price, and key features.
CEO Nick Woodman and COO CJ Porter teased the upcoming product during an earnings call on November 2, revealing that the firm is “more excited about it” than the Hero 5 Session, because the mystery cam boasts an even better form factor for the price.
“Demand for the Session was much higher than anticipated, and will result in a sooner-than-expected end of life,” said Woodman, adding that its surprising success in the entry-level market is why the company has decided to target this segment again.
Related: GoPro Hero 5 Session Review
It’s unclear what new features the pocket-sized action camera will tout, but don’t expect it – or any of GoPro’s other products that are scheduled to hit the shelves next year, for that matter – to be powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI).
When prodded by an analyst, Woodman divulged that the company isn’t planning on releasing AI-powered products just yet – like Google’s Clips – because they appeal to a different market than the one it’s trying to hit with its ruggedised offerings.
“Clips doesn’t shoot video. It doesn’t capture sound. It’s generally designed for more static use cases than a GoPro,” he said.
The first potential launch window for the new GoPro action cam would be CES 2018 in January, though GoPro often opts to stage standalone launch events rather than debut its latest wares at big trade shows.
In terms of pricing, we can infer from the GoPro execs’ comments that the new product’s asking price will be similar to the Hero 5 Session – or could it be even lower? That product carried a £250 RRP, so anything from £150-250 would make sense for the firm as it looks to entice even more people to add an action cam to their gadget collection.
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Are you excited for a new GoPro camera? Do you want the firm to venture down the AI route? Let us know over on Twitter @TrustedReviews.
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Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
