GoPro’s New Karma Drone Is Far More Than A Flying Action Camera

Just a few years ago drones were rare, but these days they're standard equipment for anyone with even the most modest film-making aspirations. In an effort to claim a piece of the flying-camera market and help bring aerial-footage capabilities to the masses, GoPro has announced the release of its own drone, named Karma. At the same time, GoPro also unveiled new HERO5 Black and HERO5 Session action cameras. Click here for a First Look at the new GoPro HERO5 and HERO5 Session.

GoPro has established itself as an action-camera market leader and innovator, and the Karma is likely to further that perception. Not only is the Karma compact and easy to carry on your motorcycle (it’s foldable and fits in the included backpack), it’s 3-axis camera stabilizer—which keeps the camera oriented and reduces vibrations during flight—is removable. With the included Karma grip users can operate the stabilizer as a handheld camera or even mount it to a moving object like, say, a motorcycle.

We haven't had a chance to test the Karma just yet, but based on our extensive experience gathering onboard footage for our On Two Wheels show (watch your favorite episode of OTW here), we know difficult it can be to record smooth, distortion-free footage. We have high hopes for the Karma and it's removable stabilizer, and we'll let you know how it works just as soon as we get our hands on one.

The Karma will cost $799 (Buy it HERE) and is compatible with the new Black and Session cameras. Buy the Karma bundled with the HERO5 Session for $999 or get it with the HERO5 Black for $1,099 (Buy the Karma/HERO5 Black combo HERE). Both bundles offer a $100 savings over buying the drone and camera individually. The Karma is will be on sale October 23rd at www.gopro.com.