GoPro launches smaller, lighter Hero4 Session action camera that doesn’t require a protective case

In the first three months of 2015, GoPro has already sold more than $363 million worth of goods. In all likelihood, that numbers about to see a substantial increase, as the company has officially revealed the conclusion of its three-year project: the new Hero4 Session mini action camera, a smaller (1.5 inches on each side), lighter (2.6 ounces) model that is half the size of other Hero4 devices.

GoPro’s new Hero4 offers its user numerous benefits. For one, it’s waterproof without the need for special casing (included membrane drains water in about two seconds once the device has been removed). Also, beyond being 50% smaller, it’s 40% lighter than other Hero4 models. Finally, it comes with a dual-microphone system to better handle wind noise. 

Some other specs worth pointing out: 
• Max resolution is 1080p high definition, as opposed to the 4K format support by the other models
• Can go 33ft underwater — this is a quarter of the depth that the other cameras can go when placed in water housing accessories
• Doesn’t feature an LCD touchscreen — instead, it’s activated by a single button, with the option of being controlled with a separate add-on remote or smartphone app

Worth pointing per the latter bullet point — this super-simple approach to operating the Hero4 Session actually extends the camera’s battery life. Run continuously, the internal battery will last one to two hours. Turning it on and off for each session extends it way beyond that timeframe. 

While GoPro does acknowledge its smaller Hero4 doesn’t have all of the technical perks as its other models, the firm believes that with its reduced size, lighter weight, and new microphone, it’s created the right kind of camera for customers looking to use it on a regular basis. 

“We challenged ourselves to produce the smallest, lightest, most convenient GoPro possible,” said the firm's founder Nicholas Woodman. “Sound quality is as important as image quality and we're very excited about the stunning audio advancements we've made.”

The Hero 4 Session will retail for $399. You can learn more about it here.