There seems to be a lot of speculation about what GoPro has in stock for us this year, some of that speculation is accurate, some of it simply isn’t. So today we’re going to look at what’s coming in 2026 and dispel some of the more outlandish rumors!
Bankruptcy? Not likely!
A lot of people are looking at the falling GoPro stock prices and wondering if this is signaling the end of GoPro. As of writing this article, the current stock price is around $1 and a lot of people seem to think this is the end of GoPro. Well quite simply put, no, it isn’t. In fact, it’s quite normal for GoPro. If you look at last year’s stock prices, they hit .50 cents by April of last year. This is due to the fact that GoPro stock is already pretty low but always gets a bump when their latest camera model is released. So, we’re seeing the downslope of the Max 2 release. So no, GoPro isn’t going anywhere, in fact they’ve lowered their debt considerably and have secured additional credit. This puts them at a much better position than they were last year, so I’d consider it very unlikely we’re seeing the end of GoPro, especially with what’s in store for 2026.
Next Model Camera.
GoPro have been pretty vocal about this one. We know that last year, Nick Woodman claimed the GP3 chip was already complete (which would mean that design, SOC and test models were signed off). GoPro have already stated that they intend to get into the “low light” segment. So, this year we could possibly see the release of the Hero 14 complete with a 1” sensor running a GP3 chip. However, it does get a bit more interesting….
Pro Level Camera
GoPro also revealed a previous roadmap for their camera systems, and this included a “pro” level camera. Not much was revealed about this, but it likely means something movie makers would want to use, something small form factor but with interchangeable lenses. I feel GoPro already prepped people for this with the Hero 13 (with its macro lens, anamorphic widescreen lens etc). However, we could be looking at more lens options and hopefully a long-awaited Zoom lens. Even an adapter system and programmable lens profile to allow the use of other manufacturer’s lenses on the camera. Again, this was a roadmap and roadmaps change.
Integrated Helmet Camera’s
This could be GoPro’s biggest success story. In 2024, GoPro acquired Forecite helmet makers who had basically integrated a camera directly into their helmets as well as a HUD (heads up display). GoPro purchased the company but more importantly, purchased the patents with it. Now GoPro are working on motorbike helmets with GoPro camera technology-built direction into them. No more big bulky external camera systems adding weight and I’m sure every motorbike rider will appreciate that one. GoPro have since partnered with famous motorbike helmet maker AGV to produce these helmets as well as working on licenses for other manufacturers to use the technology. There are also some major investors after coming on board due to how huge this market can potentially be.
GoPro Vs the Competition
The competition is facing some interesting difficulties right now. With the competition facing bans due to labor practices (used forced cheap labor to manufacture products to cut costs) and bans due to security concerns, this puts GoPro in a very good place. The competition has also been found guilty of infringing on GoPro patents which could result in them having to recall products, pay GoPro damages or pay GoPro a healthy license fee. No doubt there will be work arounds put in place by the competitors (such as manufacturing the exact same products under a different brand name with a few cosmetic changes) but that’s just how business works in the corporate world.
GoPro’s Future?
GoPro have a solid road map for the next few years. Current stock prices really aren’t a reflection of how the company is doing, it’s like looking out the window, seeing snow and thinking “Well global warming is a hoax”. You need to look at the long term bigger picture, not just what’s happening today. No doubt GoPro need to create something impressive with the release of the Hero 14 but their biggest success will depend on what magic they can work with their helmet systems and system licensing. So stay tuned, because this year may prove to be quite interesting indeed.
Please note, the above is an opinion based piece based upon GoPro press releases, public statements and possibly witchcraft enabling me to see into the future. Ok, I’m lying about the witchcraft…. it was actually a time machine….. ok that’s a lie too, it’s just based upon years of working in the technology sector for a large multinational computer hardware manufacturer. Aren’t you glad you read the really really small print at the bottom of these pieces?
English