The action camera market has seen a significant move from GoPro, as the company refreshes its existing Max 360-degree camera model. This update introduces subtle hardware improvements alongside a substantial reduction in price, making it more competitive in the market. The refreshed Max now boasts compatibility with a wider range of tripod mounts and an enhanced battery that promises longer usage times. Despite these minor tweaks, the most compelling aspect is undoubtedly the new pricing strategy, which slashes the cost to $349.99 / £349.99 / AU$599.95, offering better value for money.

Complementing the hardware updates, GoPro has also rolled out advanced features in its Quik app, designed specifically for the Max. These enhancements include AI-powered object tracking, which ensures your chosen subject remains at the heart of the action. Additionally, users can enjoy keyframing for precise control over views, CameraFX for cinematic effects, smooth transitions between clips, and the ability to extract still images from video footage. These tools aim to streamline the often complex process of editing 360-degree videos, providing a user-friendly experience that could potentially rival offerings from competitors like Insta360.

The arrival of this refreshed Max model raises questions about the long-awaited Max 2. With the original Max launched in 2020 and showing signs of age, many enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the next generation. While the price drop and app improvements offer immediate benefits, they also highlight the absence of a more substantial successor. As GoPro prepares for its typically exciting September launches, the industry watches closely to see if the Max 2 will finally emerge in 2025, equipped with cutting-edge features such as 8K video to challenge market leaders. For now, the refreshed Max provides a solid interim solution for fans of 360-degree videography.