GoPro unveils three new models, including $130 action cam

Hoping to maintain its edge in the face of increasing competition, GoPro is launching the HERO4 Silver and Black, both able to shoot in 4K resolution, as well as an aggressively priced entry-level model, the HERO. The new action cams go on sale from October 5.

The HERO4 Black is now the most advanced GoPro available, equipped with a processor twice as fast as that of the HERO3+ and capable of filming in 4K at 30fps in all circumstances. The action cam can also film at 50fps in 2.7K or at 120fps in HD (1080p).

For its part, the new HERO4 Silver is the first GoPro with a built-in touch screen, a feature that should help users to better frame their shots and view their footage. Like the Black, the Silver can record in different formats ranging from 4K (at up to 15fps) to HD.

The new GoPro HERO4 range goes on sale from October 5 in standard, Surf and Music versions, priced at $400/€379.99 (Silver) and $500/€479.99 (Black).

GoPro has also introduced an entry-level action cam, the HERO, which will sell for a mere $130/€124.99. At this price, the device is able to shoot footage at a resolution of up to 1080p/HD and take 5MP stills, all without Wi-Fi or Bluetooth for transferring files.

With their waterproof cases, all of these action cams can in principle be used at depths of up to 40 meters.

Competition on the horizon

The announcement of GoPro's latest models comes days after the Taiwanese manufacturer HTC began teasing a mystery product that is most likely its first mini action cam. Earlier rumors on the subject are now supported by a new video from the brand, which suggests a small, portable and discreet camcorder that can film underwater and withstand shocks. HTC is expected to unveil the new model on October 8.

If the rumors are confirmed, HTC might launch a product resembling the Sony Action Cam, the Full HD camcorder that is waterproof (up to 60 meters), shockproof and dustproof. Equipped with a Zeiss lens developed specifically for the purpose, Sony's model is one of the rare mini camcorders that is capable of competing with the GoPro.