GoPro just unveiled a fresh take on camera stabilization with the Fluid Pro AI gimbal, a compact tool that promises smoother footage across a range of gear. Announced earlier this week, this device marks the company’s return to motorized stabilizers after a long break.
Hero cameras have long used digital stabilization to smooth out vibrations, but this cropped the frame and softened the image. Gimbals avoid these trade-offs by shifting the entire camera body in real time while preserving all pixels. GoPro had already tried in this market with the Karma Grip, a simple handle attached to their drone series from 2016. Both were removed from stores years ago due to reliability difficulties, and enthusiasts must now rely on third-party solutions with their cameras. Fluid Pro AI improves with greater reach and smarter controls, learning from the past to provide video that seems effortless.
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The gimbal’s biggest feature is its compatibility, which can accommodate devices weighing up to 400 grams—enough for most Hero models, iPhones, Androids, or tiny cameras, but not larger mirrorless bodies. Swappable mounts attach quickly, allowing you to switch from a waterproof action camera to your phone’s wide lens in seconds. Payload balance is simple thanks to adjustable arms that lock into place without wobbling. Once attached, the three-axis motors come to life, allowing for nearly 360 degrees of panning, tilting, and rolling to mimic your movements or remain still against them.
Subject tracking is where the magic happens, as a built-in camera tracks faces or entire figures with incredible accuracy. When you point the gimbal at a runner crossing a trail, it will swivel to maintain them dead center even as you travel over uneven terrain. Flip it around to rear facing mode, and the same tech will keep an eye on you during solo vlogs. Manual overrides offer you control: a joystick on the handle allows you to precisely nudge the frame, and you can trigger shots by gesturing towards the tracker lens. Wireless instructions allow phone users to zoom, focus, and shutter from their hold without having to fiddle with screens.
Low light has thrown off many an outdoor shoot, but the integrated fill light alters that. Nestled next to the tracker module, it provides even illumination to fill shadows and warm up night landscapes, transforming grainy dusk footage into crisp recollections. The battery life is 18 hours on a single USB-C charge, which is enough to power a full day of filmmaking or recharge your phone in the middle of an adventure. That power bank feature comes in handy when outlets are far away, allowing your setup to last longer than intended.
The Fluid Pro AI folds down to fit into the provided carrying case, which is only slightly larger than a water bottle. A detachable tripod base allows you to set it up for static photos or time-lapses while freeing up your hands completely. The build quality is tough, similar to that of a GoPro, with rubberized handles and weather sealed joints that repel splashes and dust, making it ideal for trails or beaches. It weighs in at around a pound, which means it’s light enough that you’ll forget you’re carrying it after awhile.
Preorders have begun, and complete stock will be available by November 1st. At $229.99, it undercuts many professional-grade gimbals while matching their basic functionality. Early adopters will test how well the AI holds up in real-world chaos, but the specs appear to be a good workhorse.
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