GoPro's new Hero3 is lighter, faster, higher res and has WiFi, comes in three flavors starting at $199
At a San Francisco launch event GoPro has just revealed the next addition to its line of action cameras, the Hero3. The Hero3 claims specs that are 30 percent smaller and 25 percent lighter than its predecessor, with a resolution that's up to 4x higher and it has WiFi included. The top of the line Black Edition (pictured above) is capable of capturing video at up to 4K res -- if you're willing to drop the framerate down to 15fps -- however thanks to a processor it says is 2x faster, it has also doubled frame rates at lower resolutions. That means 1080p60, 1440p48 and 720p120 modes are supported for your super slow and still-HD capture needs. The Silver Edition maxes out at 11MP stills and 1080p30 video, while the White Edition drops down to 5MP stills. All three versions include WiFi (no BacPac necessary for remote control via the just-released-on-iOS app) however the Black edition includes a remote that can control up to 50 cameras at once with a 600ft range and is waterproof to 10 feet deep. It will also be available as a $79 accessory for the lesser versions.
As far as pricing, the Black Edition is $399, the Silver is $299 and the White $199. Pre-orders are scheduled to start at 12:01AM PT (3:01AM ET), and there's a handy counter on the GoPro site if you otherwise might forget. The variety of models and ubiquitous WiFi may help fight off competition at the pricing low end like the new ContourROAM2, among others. Naturally we were in the house and will have hands-on pics and impressions soon, check the gallery for pics of the box and detailed specs.
Update: Our hands-on is live! Check out how tiny the Hero3 really is right here.
[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]
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GoPro® Launches New HD HERO3 Camera Line Featuring Smallest 4K Camera
Smaller, Lighter, More Powerful with Built-in Wi-Fi Camera Available in Three Editions
SAN MATEO, CA (October 17, 2012) - GoPro, maker of the world's most versatile and durable cameras and producer of today's most engaging content announces the release of its new HD HERO3 camera line up in White, Silver and Black editions. Each new edition retains the iconic look of the previous award winning HD HERO cameras but comes in at about half the size of its predecessors and has built-in Wi-Fi technology. At the top end of the new product line up, the HD HERO3 Black Edition is one of the most powerful camera systems available, delivering astounding 4K and 2.7K video resolutions all in the size of a small box of matches, making it easier to share your world. The White, Silver and Black editions are available for pre-order at GoPro.com and are shipping to specialty retailers around the world for MSRP $199.99, $299.99 and $399.99 respectively.