Today they've just announced some firmware updates that make the camera that much more versatile, including 60fps at 2.7K (whereas previously it was only capable of 48fps in NTSC). The HERO4 Silver, which uses the sensor from the HERO3 Black, also got some updates. Here's what's new:

HERO4 Black v02.00.00

New Modes + Features


  • Adds Time Lapse Video mode
  • Adds 720p240 video mode (Narrow FOV only)
  • Adds 2.7K60 video mode
  • Adds Auto Image Rotation
  • Adds 30 photos/6 seconds Burst rate

Performance Improvements: Changes Protune default video ISO to 1600

Usability Improvements

  • Adds Reset option for camera Wi-Fi settings
  • Displays Night Lapse shutter time on the camera status screen

LCD Touch BacPac Improvements

  • Delivers the ability to add HiLight Tags during playback
  • Adds new gesture to display the last photo or video captured
  • Automatically locks the display after the camera goes to sleep

General Improvements + Bug Fixes: Night Lapse stability improvements

HERO4 Silver v02.00.00

New Features

  • Adds Time Lapse Video mode
  • Adds Auto Image Rotation
  • Adds 30 photos/6 seconds Burst rate

Performance Improvements: Changes Protune default video ISO to 1600

Usability Improvements

  • Delivers the ability to add HiLight Tags during playback
  • Adds new gesture to display the last photo or video captured
  • Automatically locks the display after the camera goes to sleep
  • Adds Reset option for camera Wi-Fi settings
  • Displays Night Lapse shutter time on the camera status screen

General Improvements + Bug Fixes: Night Lapse stability improvements

Gopro_hero4_black_edition_angled

While the 240fps at 720p is limited to the Narrow FOV only, it's now in line with the Sony FDR-X1000V 4K Action Cam, which is also capable of 240fps at 720p. The mode that still separates GoPro from the others is their 2.7K mode, which is a nice balance if you're just going back to 1080p but you want the stabilization options and the slow motion frame rates. The Time Lapse video mode option is a welcome addition, and it means you'll get ready-made time lapse videos right out of the camera instead of having to do it in post. 

Check out the HERO4 page for more on how to update your camera.

GoPro HERO4 Update v02.00.00