GoPro Max 2 faces crowded 360-degree market

GoPro has returned to the 360-degree camera segment with the Max 2, ending a six-year gap since the launch of its original Max and stepping back into a field that has evolved rapidly in its absence. The release comes at a time when rivals such as Insta360 and DJI have already iterated through multiple generations, raising questions about whether GoPro’s long-awaited update can regain lost ground or whether the market has moved on.

The Max 2 arrives as a clear acknowledgement that the original model had fallen behind on both hardware and software. While the first Max gained a loyal following among action sports users for its rugged design and seamless integration with GoPro’s ecosystem, its specifications aged quickly as sensor technology, image processing and editing workflows advanced across the industry. File handling became more demanding, resolutions climbed, and stabilisation algorithms improved elsewhere at a faster pace than GoPro could match.

With the new model, GoPro has addressed most of the gaps that previously held the Max back. The Max 2 features higher-resolution sensors capable of capturing sharper 360-degree footage with improved dynamic range, particularly noticeable in mixed lighting conditions common to outdoor and adventure shooting. Early hands-on use suggests cleaner low-light performance and more consistent colour reproduction, areas where the earlier model often struggled when compared with newer competitors.

Stabilisation remains one of GoPro’s strongest assets, and the Max 2 builds on this reputation. Horizon levelling and in-camera stabilisation have been refined to reduce the need for heavy post-production, allowing users to produce smooth footage directly from the camera. This refinement matters in a market increasingly shaped by creators who prioritise speed and ease of publishing over extensive editing.

Equally significant are changes on the software side. GoPro has streamlined its editing tools to better handle the large file sizes associated with modern 360-degree video. Reframing footage for traditional flat video output has become more intuitive, with fewer steps required to extract usable clips for social platforms. These updates signal a shift in focus towards creators who expect a near frictionless workflow from capture to upload.

The competitive context, however, is far less forgiving than it was six years ago. Insta360 has established itself as a dominant player by releasing frequent updates that emphasise versatility, modular design and AI-assisted editing. DJI, meanwhile, has leveraged its stabilisation expertise and brand recognition to attract users who value reliability and integration with other imaging tools. Against this backdrop, GoPro’s return is less about setting new benchmarks and more about proving it still belongs in the conversation.

Pricing also plays a critical role. The Max 2 enters the market at a level that reflects its premium positioning, but consumers are now accustomed to frequent discounts, bundle offers and incremental upgrades from competitors. For first-time buyers, the question becomes whether GoPro’s brand and ecosystem justify choosing a newly refreshed model over rivals with more established 360-degree product lines.

Industry analysts note that the 360-degree camera segment has matured since the original Max launched. Growth is no longer driven solely by novelty but by practical applications such as immersive storytelling, virtual tours and hybrid content creation. In this environment, incremental improvements can still matter, but timing and sustained updates are just as important as headline specifications.