GoPro launches the Hero4 Session camera

GoPro has been constantly upgrading the Hero action camera since it rolled out more than a decade ago. The camera has gone on to become the most popular action camera ever. The company's latest camera is the Hero4 Session, the smallest camera we've seen so far from GoPro. The company claims that the camera is now 50 per cent smaller and 40 per cent lighter than the previous Hero4. The all-new cube design looks completely different when compared to its siblings and a lot more appealing as well. The large lens takes centre stage while the minimalist body surround houses the LED status light and two mics.

The reduced size and new design should make it easier to mount in various places and achieve a more creative angle too. In fact the company says the new camera is the most wearable and mountable GoPro ever. It is also more discreet than before and the all-black body helps too. The camera, despite the size, captures high-resolution 1440p30 and 1080p60 video. It can also shoot at a high frame rate (720p100) for those super slow motion videos. 8mp single photos can also be captured along with time lapse and burst modes.

Two types of frame mounts for the Session camera

Since there is just one button now, one can access all modes and adjust settings using the GoPro app or the remote that can be purchased separately. New mounts and accessories have also been unveiled that have been specially developed for the Session camera (good news is that the older Hero mounts are all compatible).

There are two different frames available (sold separately) depending on usage while the new ball joint mount lets one change the shooting angle without having to unmount the camera. The surf model as the name suggests also offers mounts for a surfboard. Auto image rotation is a nice feature added to the camera, this automatically adjusts the capture orientation even if mounted upside down.

The strap mount for the new Hero4 goes well with the minimalist look and is a lot more wearable

The new camera is waterproof without any extra casing up to a depth of 10m. The battery is now in-built and lasts for a claimed two hours (longer than the existing Hero4).

The redesigned floatie is now smaller so it can accomodate the more compact Hero4 Session camera

The Hero4 session is priced at $399 (Rs 25000) similar to the existing Hero4 Silver edition. The latter offers higher resolution video capture (4K) and also offers an integrated screen. The Hero4 Session goes on sale in the US on July 12 - expect the camera to be available in India at a slightly higher price in a few months.