GoPro HERO8 Black firmware update: HD video conferences are now possible as GoPro adds webcam function

Video conferences have become an important way to communicate while following safety guidelines amid a pandemic. It is then not surprising that GoPro adapts to these changes by making HERO8 Black an HD webcam for people who now have to attend meetings and classes online.

GoPro HERO8 Black updates makes HD video calls possible

GoPro just added one more, rather ironic, function for the HERO8 Black. Action cameras are often advertised as devices best used to capture moments taken outdoors. But after travel restrictions and stay-at-home policies in previous months, the company has found a way to make its flagship camera still an option to buy for camera enthusiasts.

People who own a GoPro HERO8 Black can now use the camera as a webcam without paying for anything else. To enjoy this new feature, HERO8 Black users will have to download and install the said firmware update through this link. It should be noted, however, that the update is labeled as “Beta Firmware” by GoPro in various posts.

One downside to this feature is that it appears to be exclusively available on a macOS computer. Other than that, GoPro HERO8 Black users will only need a USB-C cord and their computer.

Once the GoPro HERO8 Black unit is up to date, a GoPro desktop app will have to be installed on the computer. When this is completed, a GoPro icon should start displaying on the macOS status bar. Use the USB cable to connect the camera to the computer, users will know that the connection is successful once a blue dot appears on the said GoPro icon. The GoPro desktop app includes a Show Preview button to help users to position the camera. Once the HERO8 Black is being used live as a webcam, a red dot should appear on the GoPro icon.

Will it be available on older GoPro HERO cameras?

Resolution options include 720p and 1080p. The GoPro Webcam feature is supported by Zoom, YouTube Live and Webex through Chrome, Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, Skype, Twitch, BlueJeans, GoTo Meeting, Snap Camera, Facebook Rooms, and the desktop version of Facetime.

Based on GoPro’s announcements, it appears that the webcam feature is exclusive to the HERO8 Black only. It is yet to be seen if the company will extend this firmware update to older GoPro HERO cameras. HERO8 Black is currently on sale at $249.99 with a GoPro PLUS subscription bringing the discount value up to $150.