GoPro Labs – Firmware Update for Advanced Users

Firmware Update

by Olaf von VossJanuary 13^th, 2021

GoPro just announced that its GoPro Labs labeled firmware program has released an update that unlocks experimental features for advanced users. The supported models include the GoPro HERO9 Black, Hero8 Black, Hero7 Black and GoPro MAX.

GoPro action cams usually work in a rather straightforward manner. But sometimes that simplicity prevents more advanced users from getting the shot they want. For these pro users, GoPro has something in store: a special GoPro Labs firmware (read our initial article here) that enables advanced features on select GoPro models. These features are sometimes a bit experimental, but they can still be very useful for certain use cases. And now there’s an update with even more features.

GoPro Labs – new firmware update

With the new features, GoPro users can push the boundaries of their beloved GoPro just a bit further (from the press release):

• Camera Motion Triggers: Leverage the camera’s accelerometer and/or gyroscope to start/stop capture only when the camera is in motion, preserving storage and battery.
• USB Power Triggers: Equips GoPro to start/stop capture when USB power is detected, enabling USB-triggered functions like serving as a dash cam.
• Motion Detection Enhancements: Motion detection is now supported in all video modes, including 360° motion detection on MAX, with improvements to the sensitivity range.
• Simplified Live Streaming QR Code: Program your GoPro got start live streaming within seconds of being connected to a designated Wi-Fi network.
• Single-Setting/One-Button Mode: A one-button mode where the operator can only start/stop capture, making it impossible to accidentally change camera modes. Perfect for simplified use and new users.
• New Exposure Modes: Set timed exposure lock and minimum shutter speed settings.
• New QR Code Controls: QR code controls supported in 5K and HindSight capture for HERO9 Black.

Many functions are triggered by pointing the camera at a special QR code that is recognized by the camera.

Installing the firmware

If you see something in the list above that you would like to see on your GoPro, go to the GoPro website to download the Labs firmware specific to your model. These experimental firmware versions serve as a test run, and some of these features will most likely show up in a later official firmware. For example, some features, including QR code-driven options like motion detection, wake-up timer, saving favorite settings, camera personalization, and more, became official features in the HERO9 Black, which launched in fall 2020.

When you download this latest GoPro Labs firmware, you get all the features you would expect from the official firmware version of your specific camera, plus the experimental features listed above.

Link: GoPro Labs Website

Do you use the GoPro Labs firmware already? Share your experiences in the comments below!