Shortly after DJI unveiled its new Osmo Action 4 action camera, leaked images of the upcoming GoPro Hero 12 Black have surfaced, suggesting some exciting improvements in image quality. These images, shared by @tech_insights4U on X (via The New Camera), appear to show a new GoPro with a larger 1-inch sensor, as indicated by a marking on the side, and a bigger screen with smaller borders.
However, it’s important to approach these images with caution since the source has no previous record of GoPro leaks. The marking indicating a ‘1-inch sensor’ is placed where GoPro usually displays the camera’s name, adding to the uncertainty. Despite this, the images appear convincing and show no obvious signs of manipulation. Many users have been hoping for GoPro to adopt a 1-inch sensor, especially since the Insta360 One R introduced an optional 1-inch sensor module in 2020.
The leaked images also suggest some potential features for the GoPro Hero 12 Black, which is expected to launch around mid-September. The larger screen could hint at a new 4K/240p ‘ultra slow-motion’ mode. The leaks also hint at an increase in sensor resolution from the Hero 11 Black’s 27MP to at least 30MP. There’s also a less certain rumor that the Hero 12 Black might support 8K/60p video recording.
However, the feasibility of 8K/60p video on the GoPro Hero 12 Black is doubtful. GoPros typically use Sony sensors, and Sony currently doesn’t offer a 1-inch sensor with more than 20MP resolution, according to their list of camera image sensors. Moreover, shooting in 8K presents challenges like overheating and workflow management, and there are limited ways to view 8K content.
The leaked images showing a larger sensor and screen seem more plausible. The Hero 11 Black uses a smaller 1/1.9-inch sensor, which appears small compared to the DJI Osmo Action 4’s larger 1/1.3-inch sensor and the 1-inch module available for the Insta360 One R and One RS. A larger sensor would greatly enhance low-light performance, a weakness in previous GoPro models.
Earlier leaks also hinted at an edge-to-edge screen, although the leaked photo doesn’t completely match that description. While GoPro has traditionally kept a tight lid on rumors, with about a month left until its usual mid-September launch window, more information could surface in the coming weeks. If you’re considering purchasing a top-tier action camera, it might be wise to wait a bit to see if these rumors materialize into reality.
