GoPro’s New Gimbal: Stabilize Any Camera, From Action Cams to Phones
▼ Summary
– GoPro’s new Fluid Pro AI is a handheld camera stabilizer compatible with its own action cameras, smartphones, and some compact cameras, unlike its previous Karma Grip.
– The stabilizer features an integrated AI-powered tracking module for recognizing hand gestures and automatically keeping subjects in frame by locking onto faces or bodies.
– It has a 400-gram payload capacity and uses swappable mounting brackets to accommodate different devices like action cameras and smartphones of various sizes.
– The Fluid Pro AI offers extensive battery life, providing up to 18 hours of general use or up to 6 hours with the AI tracker and LED light active, outperforming some competitors.
– Priced at $229.99, it is more expensive than rivals like the Insta360 Flow 2 Pro and DJI Osmo Mobile 7 Pro, but its versatility and battery life may justify the cost for some users.
GoPro has unveiled a new handheld camera stabilizer designed for far greater versatility than its previous models. The Fluid Pro AI breaks from the company’s tradition by supporting not only its own action cameras but also smartphones and certain compact cameras, thanks to a robust 400-gram payload capacity. Set for release on October 21st, this gimbal enters a competitive market with a price of $229.99, positioning it above rivals like the Insta360 Flow 2 Pro and DJI Osmo Mobile 7 Pro. However, its significantly extended battery life and advanced AI tracking features present a compelling case for creators seeking a powerful, all-in-one stabilization tool.
A key selling point is the integrated AI-powered tracking module. This system allows the gimbal to recognize hand gestures for remote control and can automatically lock onto a subject’s face or body to keep them perfectly framed. For more precise control, users can manually select a tracking target through a connected mobile app. The same app unlocks additional creative modes, including tools for capturing sweeping panoramic shots and dynamic time-lapse sequences.
Versatility is central to the design, achieved through swappable mounting brackets. These brackets feature a clamping mechanism that securely holds a wide range of devices, from a GoPro Hero13 Black to smartphones of various sizes, as long as the total weight stays under the 400-gram limit. In terms of movement, the gimbal offers extensive freedom, capable of a full 360-degree pan and a 320-degree tilt to capture smooth, cinematic footage from almost any angle.
Where the Fluid Pro AI truly distinguishes itself is with its impressive battery performance. GoPro claims the device can last for up to 18 hours of general use. Even with the demanding AI tracker activated and the built-in LED fill light turned on, battery life is estimated at a solid six hours. This endurance notably outpaces the competition; comparable gimbals from Insta360 and DJI typically offer a maximum of around 10 hours without using their tracking features. While it forgoes extras like a telescoping arm or built-in tripod legs, the gimbal’s focus on core stabilization power and long-lasting operation makes it a strong option for extended shooting sessions.
(Source: The Verge)