GoPro Releases The Smaller, Faster Hero3+ Action Camera

Just when you thought GoPros couldn’t get any smaller, meet the Hero3+. The new model is 20 percent smaller than its predecessor and packs some much-improved internals, allowing the camera to capture even better quality imagery.

GoPro claims the upgraded lens should result in images that are 33 percent sharper while featuring half the amount of digital artifacts. The camera’s sensor has also been upgraded for better low-light performance and it packs improved audio pickups. GoPro also boosted the camera’s wireless connectivity, claiming the new wireless is four times faster. If that wasn’t enough, the Hero3+’s battery now lasts 30% longer.

The starting price is slightly higher than before, but expect prices to drop to existing levels over time. Besides, this camera is worth the extra bones. The Hero3+ will hit stores this week for $399 and the Silver edition, which also got several upgrades, will debut for $299.

GoPro’s total dominance in the growing action camera market is making it hard for competitors (both new and old) to keep up. Upstarts cannot match GoPro’s advance technology and price points and established companies such as Sony are having a seemingly tough time making inroads. As GoPro methodically releases new models every years and rolls out significant improvements to its software, the company is simultaneously growing the market it created while shutting out startups attempting to replicate its success.

It’s pretty tough to fight a company whose name doubles as a verb.

I recently visited GoPro’s laid-back San Diego development office to learn about its suite of software. The company wants to give owners the easiest possible way to get content off their GoPros and onto the Internet.