GoPro Unveils Fusion, a Spherical Camera to Record Virtual Reality Content

GoPro this week announced a pilot program for Fusion, a 5.2K spherical camera designed to be the ultimate capture device for immersive virtual reality content and conventional video and photo formats.

Professional content creators can apply to participate in a pilot program which is expected to roll out during the summer.

“Fusion offers the ability to capture every angle simultaneously,” said GoPro CEO Nicholas Woodman. “Whether filming for VR or traditional fixed-perspective content, Fusion represents the state-of-the-art in versatile spherical capture.”

Details on pricing and other specifics have not yet been disclosed, but GoPro said it plans “a limited commercial release” of Fusion by the end of 2017.

“Thanks to Fusion, our users will be able to record their moments in all directions and then go back and choose the composition they want,” says Jess Foley, GoPro Senior Product Manager of Spherical Solutions. “It’s like having a camera team with you when you shoot capturing your primary and b-roll footage. From there, you have the flexibility in post-production to pick and share all sides of your story in conventional HD.”

GoPro hopes innovative products like the Fusion will help the company achieve profitability.