GoPro Inc Hero 4 Release Date Set For Mid

HTC is also developing a waterproof sports camera to challenge GoPro

GoPro Inc ( NASDAQ:GPRO) is expected to release Hero 4 adventure camera in mid-October. Stifel analyst Jim Duffy believes GoPro Hero 4 launch will be the biggest action camera event to date. The research firm expects the new device to sell for $499, a substantial increase from $399 for Hero 3+ Black Edition. There is no official word from the San Mateo-based company about the release date.

GoPro Hero 4: rumored features

According to ProductReviews.Net, Hero 4 will be capable of capturing 4K videos at 30fps. It will feature a 13-megapixel photo sensor to take pictures and videos in most lighting conditions. Other reported features include enhanced MCTF, electronic image stabilization, and improved WDR Tone-mapping. Air Herald has learned from its sources that GoPro Hero 4 will be resistant to extreme weather conditions such as hail, rain and storm.

Further, the device is expected to feature 1GHz Ambarella A9 processor and an FPU accelerator. It will also have viewfinder functions and WiFi for remote playback. These features will allow for enhanced social sharing. GoPro Hero 4 will capture insane moments from different types of action sports. Adventure freaks and extreme sports lovers are eagerly waiting for Hero 4.

Dougherty & Co analyst Charlie Anderson said in a research note that since the days of iPod or the iPad, there hasn't been an electronics brand as strong as GoPro in its category. The company went public in June, and currently has a market value of about $10 billion. Its stock has rallied 154% since its public offering, making GoPro the top-performing IPO of this year.

HTC will soon challenge GoPro

However, GoPro will have a tough competition soon. Sources familiar with the matter told Bloomberg that Taiwanese company HTC is developing a waterproof sports camera to challenge GoPro. HTC plans to expand its product offering as its smartphone sales continue to decline. HTC's camera will connect directly to devices running iOS or Android.

HTC's tube-shaped camera will incorporate WiFi and Bluetooth capabilities. The company is expected to launch its first waterproof camera at a press event in New York on October 8.

GoPro shares jumped 0.98% to $79.23 at 12:28 PM EDT on Thursday.