GPS manufacturer Garmin has ventured into GoPro territory with the announcement of the VIRB, a new point-of-view action camera. The camera comes with a waterproof housing and can record up to three hours of 1080p video on one charge. In addition to video, the VIRB can take 16-megapixel stills with photo burst and time lapse options. Key specs include a 1.4-inch colour display, built-in digital image stabilisation and lens-distortion correction.
An advanced version of the camera, the VIRB Elite, also includes built-in WiFi, accelerometer, altimeter and high-sensitivity GPS. Both models can be remotely controlled with compatible Garmin devices including cycling computers, watches and accessory remotes. The VIRB Elite can also be controlled by smartphone.
Both models feature an IPX-7 waterproof rating which means they can be submerged in up to 0ne meter of water for up to 30 minutes. An optional case allows the camera to be taken to a depth of 50m. Garmin has released mounts to secure the camera to handlebars, helmets, surfboards and more. In Ski Mode, the VIRB Elite is able to recognise the difference between going down the mountain and going up the ski lift. In this setting, the camera automatically turns on and starts recording when going down the mountain and goes into standby mode on the ski lift.
The VIRB and VIRB Elite are expected to be available in the US in September with retail prices of US$299.99 and US$399.99. At the time of writing, Australian launch date and pricing had not been announced.
