Introducing GoPro Hero 12 Black: Enhanced Two-Channel Sound, Upgraded Tripod Compatibility, and More Affordable Pricing
GoPro has recently unveiled its latest camera, the Hero 12 Black, with a renewed focus on sound. Notable features of the Hero 12 Black include support for an external microphone and two-channel audio recording. This enables users to capture sound from both the camera and an external microphone and then mix them during post-processing. Additionally, the camera now includes a convenient ¼-inch thread, providing users with more options for mounting. The addition of HDR video and 8:7 shooting in all modes further enhances shooting flexibility.
Many were hoping for improvements in low-light performance and an increase in sensor size, similar to DJI's Osmo Action 4. However, it seems that GoPro is sticking with its 1/1.9-inch sensor, which was introduced in the Hero 11 Black.
In terms of wireless capabilities, GoPro has stepped up its game by introducing support for Bluetooth microphones, including headphones and separate solutions. Voice commands and external audio can be transmitted via the Hero 12 Black's Bluetooth input, making hands-free remote control easier than ever before. Additionally, with dual-channel recording, both camera and microphone audio are captured.
The Hero 12 Black also introduces Timecode Sync, a feature designed to simplify the editing process when using multiple cameras to create a single video clip.
In terms of video capabilities, the Hero 12 Black focuses on HDR, which addresses issues with overexposed skies and captures more detail in high-contrast scenes. The camera can record video in resolutions up to 5.3K at 60 fps or 4K at 120 fps in standard video mode. Slow-motion recording is limited to 2.7K at 240 fps. The camera also features HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization and introduces a new feature called AutoBoost, which automatically adjusts stabilization based on the field of view.
In addition, the Hero 12 Black retains the 27 MP, 8:7 sensor introduced in the Hero 11 Black, allowing for stills to be extracted from videos at full resolution. The camera also includes a new light shooting feature and a traditional action camera mounting system with a 1/4-inch thread for more mounting options.
The battery specifications remain the same, but GoPro claims longer recording times on a single charge with the Hero 12 Black. It is equipped with an Enduro battery and can record up to 70 minutes at 5.3K 60 fps or 58 minutes at 4K 120 fps. Lowering the resolution to 1080p can extend the recording time to 155 minutes at 30 fps.
GoPro has also announced two additional accessories: the Max Lens Mod 2.0, which offers a wider field of view, and an extension pole with a waterproof remote control.
The GoPro Hero 12 Black is priced at $399.99, the lowest suggested retail price for Hero Black cameras in recent years. The Max Lens Mod 2.0 is priced at $99.99. Both the camera and lens mod are available for pre-order on GoPro.com until September 13, when they will be available for purchase worldwide. Additionally, there is a GoPro Hero 12 Black Creator Edition bundle priced at $599.99, which includes the camera, MediaMod, Light Mod, and GoPro Volta.