New GoPro Hero12 doubles battery life and adds tripod threads (finally)
GoPro’s new Hero12 Black promises 100% longer runtime, 5.3K and 4K HDR video options, support for Bluetooth audio devices, and standard tripod connectivity, all for $400.
This new action camera takes everything that comes with the Hero11 Black’s bigger and better sensor and adds to it other technical advancements including improved encryption for small files with the promise that it won’t sacrifice image quality. It also has time code sync wirelessly, which makes multi-cam editing easier. Plus, the GoPro camera now supports portrait mode, making it easy to get the perfect TikTok or Instagram REEL clip without manually cropping in post-production.
On that note, the Hero12 uses the same 1/1.9-type sensor as last year’s model which enables an 8:7 aspect ratio that can be cropped to 16:9 portrait, 16:9 widescreen, traditional 4:3, or full frame. The aspect ratios are 8:7. This new model allows all aspect ratios to be used during TimeWarp, Time Lapse, Night Lapse, and all Night Effects modes. The Hero12 Black can capture light panels, star trails, and vehicle lights using long exposure modes, too. Speaking of modes, GoPro says that the new Hero12 Black has an updated user interface that has simpler controls.
The new Action Cam has GP-LOG capture and lookup tables available allowing high-end users to have more control in post-production and editing when it comes to color grading. It also supports wireless audio via Bluetooth that works with earphones, headphones, and microphones.
GoPro’s latest flagship model also supports the new Max Lens Mod 2.0 attachment, which allows for a 177-degree view. It offers three field-of-view settings: Max Wide, Max SuperView, and Max HyperView. With the Max Lens Mod, Hero12’s perspective becomes 36% wider and 48% longer. It’s also just as durable as a GoPro with 2x scratch-resistant Super Glass and a hydrophobic lens coating that makes keeping water, mud, and dirt out of the optics a breeze. However, it does not come with the Hero12 and must be purchased separately.
The company says it has significantly improved the power management system in the Hero12 Black so that it can deliver 70 minutes of continuous recording at 5.3K at 60p (the highest performance setting), over 95 minutes at 5.3K 30p, and over 155 minutes of continuous recording at 1080p 30. Pixel – all with HyperSmooth 6.0 video stabilization turned on.
“Hero12 Black resets the standards for capturing immersive life,” says Nicholas Woodman, CEO and Founder of GoPro. “Our new main camera is the culmination of GoPro’s 21 years of experience and passion in helping you capture and share your life in a dreamlike, immersive way that makes you and your audience feel right there again, relived. Favorite experiences in vivid detail.”
The new model also brings the usual details many have come to expect from a GoPro. It’s water resistant to 33 feet and has simplified controls (although you can access the full options in Pro mode). The Hero12 Black mounting fingers also feature a standard tripod mounting thread (1/4-20) making it even more compatible with universal camera tripods and accessories. It’s unclear why this took 12 camera prints for the film to finally be made, but the filmmakers would no doubt be grateful.
GoPro also announced a new extension pole—a handy GoPro companion—that measures 48 inches long and folds down to just 10 inches. It also comes with a wireless waterproof shutter, just in case your arms are less than four feet long.
The Hero12 Black is available for pre-order now for $400, and the Max Lens Mod 2.0 for $100 (or $80 for GoPro subscribers, which cost $25 in the first year and $50 in subsequent years).
