GoPro Hero 12 Black launches with HDR, better stabilization, bluetooth audio recording and new Max Lens Mod 2.0
Over the last month, we’ve seen quite a few leaks about the GoPro Hero 12 Black, including a pre-release eBay listing. Now, GoPro has officially launched the Hero 12 Black, confirming many of the leaked details, but also revealing several new features. It has also released a version 2.0 of its Max Lens Mod ultra wide-angle lens accessory exclusively for the Hero 12.
One key improvement over the Hero 11 is support for High Dynamic Range (HDR) at most video resolutions as well as for photos, which will improve overall exposure in the complex lighting conditions one typically encounters outdoors. GoPro’s HyperSmooth video stabilization feature, now at version 6.0, gets a performance boost and creates lesser cropping while in use. A new Vertical Capture mode enables vertical aspect ratios without physically turning the camera.
The Hero 12 can now record audio wirelessly from devices like bluetooth earbuds and mics, making recording narration and interviews much simpler. An improved power management system effectively doubles the continuous recording time, to 70 minutes at 5.3K60. For professional editing, the Hero 12 features timecode sync to allow synchronizing footage from multiple cameras.
While the physical design is almost unchanged from the Hero 11, one notable addition is a standard tripod screw mount (aka 1/4-20 mounting thread). While the new Hero 12 adds a number of handy features, at its core, there's no truly groundbreaking upgrade. We get the same 1/1.9” sensor capturing up to 5.3K60 video and 27 MP photos; the dimensions, weight are also unchanged, as is the lens, both LCD displays, battery and the 10 m/33 ft of waterproof rating.
Launched alongside the Hero 12 is the new Max Lens Mod 2.0, which bumps up the field-of-view from 155° to an ultra-wide 177° and can be used at up to 4K60. Its Max HyperSmooth stabilization is now available at all video settings. The lens is lighter and smaller, with a lens that’s “2x more scratch-resistant”, waterproof to 5 m/16 ft when installed, and coated to be water-repellent.
You can now pre-order the GoPro Hero 12 Black on Amazon, with shipping starting on September 13
