GoPro has released a new update to its GoPro Labs special firmware program. The update brings as many as seven new “innovative and experimental” features to the company’s compatible flagship cameras.
To start with, users can now set the camera to start or stop recording when the device is in motion. So if you have the camera mounted on your bike helmet, for instance, and want to record your journey, you can set it to automatically stop recording as soon as you stop. The latest firmware update also adds a similar functionality for when power flows in. This allows your GoPro to serve as a dashcam, automatically capturing the footage when USB power is detected.
GoPro says it has also improved the motion detection capabilities of the cameras, with improvements to the sensitivity range. Additionally, motion detection now works in all video modes, including 360-degree motion detection on the GoPro Max.
Compatible GoPro cameras are also getting newer QR code functionalities. You can use a QR code to quickly connect your camera to a Wi-Fi network and start live streaming. QR code controls are now supported in 5K and HindSight capture for the GoPro Hero9 Black.
The latest firmware update for GoPro Labs further adds a “one-button” mode. This feature limits the controls to only starting and stopping capture. One cannot use the on-device buttons to change the camera modes. This is ideal for new users, or if you’re lending your camera to someone and don’t want them to change your custom camera settings.
For advanced GoPro users, the company is adding more “pro” mode settings as well. You can now set timed exposure lock and minimum shutter speed settings for your camera.
GoPro adds new features to its GoPro Labs program
GoPro launched the GoPro Labs program back in May 2019. The program gives the users of its select flagship cameras early access to experimental and in-development features that the company is testing behind the scenes. GoPro Labs was initially open only to the GoPro Hero8 Black. The company has now expanded the program to support the Hero9 Black, Hero7 Black, and GoPro Max models as well.
GoPro had previously released features like wake-up timers, saving favorite settings, camera personalization, and more to GoPro Labs. Some of these experimental features have now rolled out officially to select models.
If you have one of the compatible GoPro cameras, you can download the latest GoPro Labs firmware from the official website to access the newly added features. You can find a step-by-step guide on “how to manually update your GoPro” here.