GoPro raises the bar with GoPro 8 action camera

GoPro kicked off October by announcing their new flagship action camera the GoPro HERO 8 Black.

Though most of the specs leaked out prior to this announcement in some way or another, GoPro was still able to keep a couple of features under wraps. Here’s what you need to know about the new GoPro 8:

Even better stabilization with HyperSmooth 2.0

HyperSmooth already blew away the stabilization offered in rival action cameras like the DJI Osmo Action. However, it appears GoPro isn’t satisfied with just being the best. The GoPro 8 will come with HyperSmooth 2.0 — including boost mode (for smoothing particularly rough bits of footage) and TimeWarp 2.0.

An extra bonus is that now HyperSmooth works in all video resolutions and framerates including 8x slow-motion.

GoPro Mods: Attachable lights, mics & more

Besides HyperSmooth 2.0, the GoPro 8’s other big standout feature is the attachable electronic accessories called “GoPro Mods”. Currently, this only includes three accessories — a flip-up screen, attachable light, and “Media Mod” with built-in mic and ports. These accessories won’t be available until December though, so people who buy the new GP8 will have to wait a few months before they can get the full experience.

It’s 14% lighter and features an integrated mount

The GoPro 7 weighed in at an already lite 142g, but the new GoPro 8 cuts that down to just 126g. In addition, no frame is required to mount it to any GoPro accessories further slimming down its already small profile.

SuperPhoto + Improved HDR for better photos

GoPro’s are fun for photography, but with their small sensors, they frequently suffer from poor dynamic range. SuperPhoto mode on the HERO 6 and 7 has been great and the new HERO 8 improves on that even more. New algorithms and compression techniques deliver a clearer, better lit and more dynamic images — all automatically when you press the shutter.

Digital Lenses for easily switching field of view

Not everyone loves the superwide angle look that GoPros are known for, and now it’s easier than ever to switch it up. The GoPro 8 incorporates a new UI design element that makes switching from SuperWide, Wide, Linear or Narrow just a tap.

Night Lapse video, high fidelity audio & Live Burst

Rounding out the improvement to the GoPro HERO 8 are:

• Night Lapse Video mode — no need to stitch photo time-lapses together just because it’s dark out
• LiveBurst mode — GoPro’s equivalent of Apple’s “Live Photos”. Captures 1.5 secs before and after you press the shutter.
• Better audio quality — Now sporting 3 mics, GoPro promises their HERO 8 will deliver better sound; even when fighting wind noise.

Availability and pricing

The new GoPro HERO 8 Black is available for pre-order now through GoPro.com and BestBuy for $399. It will ship worldwide on October 15th (the new GoPro HERO Max won’t ship until 10 days later on October 25th).