GoPro has announced its latest camera, the Hero 12 Black, will be equipped with new features and longer runtimes than previous models, as well as support for Bluetooth audio devices and dual channel audio.
A new 9:16 vertical capture mode may appeal to users wanting to record video for TikTok and YouTube Shorts, while the optional Max Lens Mod 2.0 accessory will allow for 177-degree field-of-view recording at 4K and 60 frames per second.
The Hero 12 Black will launch at $750 in New Zealand and appear in stores from September 13.
Hardware-wise, not much has been changed since last year's model. Rather than a new battery, the longer runtimes are possible thanks to a redesigned power management system, according to GoPro.
The company is promising up to twice as long continuous recording times compared to the Hero 11 Black - if you used the standard battery on the 11 and the standard 'enduro' battery on the 12.
Using the new Bluetooth support, users can pair the camera with wireless devices, before using them to record separate, synched audio tracks in addition to what's recorded through the onboard microphones.
In a video showcasing this feature in action, GoPro showed footage taken with a camera mounted on the outside of a car with the driver wearing paired AirPods that recorded their reactions and commentary, which was mixed with audio recorded on the camera.
Paired mics can also be used to control the camera with voice commands, which could be useful for users whose hands are occupied while they are capturing footage.
The Hero 12 Black can capture HDR photos and videos at up to 5.3K and boasts the ability to timecode sync video and audio with other Hero 12 Black cameras.
GoPro has also upgraded its Quik app, it said, which offers both free and paid options with various features.
