GoPro Fusion was officially announced today, and it is more than just a 360 camera. Jess Foley, GoPro’s Senior Product Manager, released the announcement on their website. This camera can shoot videos in 5.2K at 30 FPS!
Similarly, the DJI Inspire 2 can also shoot at 5.2K, but the GoPro Fusion shines as a handheld device. Check out this official GoPro Fusion teaser. It’s best seen with a phone or a VR headset.
What’s The Difference?
GoPro labeled this as a spherical camera, but it’s still a 360 camera with a higher capability of capturing photos and videos. As of right now, the promised 5.2k at 30fps is the main feature. The draw of this new product is its ability to frame everything in a single shot, so users can crop out the unwanted angles while retaining the high definition video.
Instead of constantly checking on a viewfinder to see if the angle is perfect, this GoPro Fusion can capture it all for a VR experience or for further editing. Its size is also one of its most marketable features. Compared to other 360 cameras, the GoPro Fusion is relatively small, especially since it packs some serious HD power. This will also be compatible with previous GoPro mounts and handheld accessories.
GoPro Fusion Video Capture
Where Did GoPro Fusion Get Its Name From?
GoPro’s previous Omni Model
According to GoPro founder Nicholas Woodman, the new camera is like having six GoPro cameras fused in one, and he described it as a representation of state-of-the-art capturing versatility. For reference, GoPro previously created a 6-in-1 spherical rig called the Omni at a price of $4999.99.
Who Is This Camera Made For?
GoPro is marketing this for professionals, content creators, and enthusiasts.
When is the Release Date?
It’s expected to be released by the end of 2017, but GoPro created a pilot program for this summer. For those interested in applying for the pilot program click here.
What’s The Pilot Program?
It is essentially an experimental testing program. It will be done on a small scale to help GoPro understand how to further improve it for the official release. GoPro will use this to “further refine the user experience.”
5.2K at 30 FPS
The DJI Inspire 2 has a comparable camera called the DJI Zenmuse X5S. If the GoPro Fusion is anything like the X5S, then it will be capable of shooting at a resolution of 5280×2972, so large files will be expected.
Further details such as pricing and other precise specifications are still unknown, but being that this is geared for professionals, expect the new GoPro Fusion to be a lot more expensive than their previous action cameras. Now imagine if they made this waterproof like their Hero 5!
