Garmin today announced its latest Go-Pro-style of HD action cameras, the VIRB X and the VIRB XE.
Compact and capable of shooting high-definition, wide-angle footage, VIRB X and XE boast a new form factor allowing for more mounting options. Waterproof to 50 meters, the updated camera design is even more rugged, and doesn?t require an external case for underwater shooting. In addition to enhanced video and audio modes, VIRB X and XE boast a built-in sensors and wireless functionality options, which can be utilized through the new G-Metrix feature for a wide array of data overlays.
Whether users want to analyze their power output by overlaying Vector data, show off high G-loading during an aerobatic flight, re-live the runs made and vertical feet covered during a powder day with the help of fenix 3, or see the acceleration and highlight top speed on the racetrack, VIRB X and XE are the ultimate action cams.
Shooting wide-angle footage, VIRB XE is designed to shoot professional HD footage at 1440p/30fps and 1080p/60fps with super slow-mo, image stabilization and different zoom levels. VIRB X shoots HD footage at 1080p/30fps and 720p/60fps with slow-mo and zoom options. With the still image sensor, both versions can capture still photos and photo bursts with up to 12MP image quality. Additionally, VIRB XE has a Pro Mode with more advanced manual camera adjustments such as white balance control, sharpness control, color profile control, ISO limit and exposure bias.
Both VIRB XE and VIRB X are waterproof to 50 meters and don?t require an external case. Featuring a hydrophobic, flat glass lens, underwater shots are crystal clear while transitions in and out of the water are unobstructed by droplets. With the updated design, VIRB X and XE boast a new microphone and Bluetooth Audio connectivity for Bluetooth-enabled headsets or microphones. VIRB X and XE also have improved, more professional and secure mounts with a non-slip allen head tightening system, allowing maximum torque for impact and vibration resistance.
VIRB X and XE are equipped with a variety of built-in sensors, and the ability to connect wirelessly to even more through Bluetooth, ANT+ and Wi-Fi, so users are recording more than just video. With G-Metrix, VIRB X and XE utilize internal sensors like the high-sensitivity GPS, accelerometer and gyroscope, and compatible devices and accessories like an HRM-Run, fenix 3 multisport watch or Vector power meter to track movements in real time and capture more performance data. Additionally VIRB X and XE are compatible with Bluetooth-enabled OBD tools to capture true vehicle data like speed, RPM and throttle position.
Through the built-in Wi-Fi, users can connect VIRB X and XE to the VIRB Mobile app on both smartphones and tablets. With VIRB Mobile, users can get a live stream of video to setup shots and see what?s being recorded, control and view multiple cameras, or even quickly edit and overlay G-Metrix data, making it easier than ever to upload and share video content. Additionally, when connected to the mobile app, users will never lose their camera with the VIRB tracking feature, which records the last known GPS position of the camera for easy recovery.
Using removable and rechargeable batteries, VIRB X and XE can get up to 2 hours of battery life at 1080p and store video and data on microSD cards.
VIRB X and XE will be available for purchase in summer 2015. VIRB X will have a suggested retail price of $299.99, and VIRB XE will have a suggested retail price of $399.99.