Following last week’s teaser, Insta360 has fully revealed the Ace Pro 2 action camera. The Insta360 Ace Pro 2 features 8K video recording, smarter artificial intelligence (AI), and a more robust design.
“Our goal was to refine and improve on the groundbreaking features of the original Insta360 Ace Pro to deliver an unparalleled experience,” said JK Liu, founder of Insta360. “We are confident these upgrades will establish a new industry standard. Not only do they enable significant advances in AI, but they also enable creators to capture what has always been impossible with other action cameras, opening the door to unprecedented creative potential.”
The Ace Pro 2, developed in collaboration with Leica, offers image improvements
Developed in collaboration with Leica, the Insta360 Ace Pro 2 features a new Type 1/1.3 image sensor and a wider Leica Summarit lens with a 157-degree field of view. The lens corresponds to a 13mm ultra-wide-angle lens on a full-frame camera and has a maximum aperture of f/2.6. The original Ace Pro camera offers a focal length equivalent to 16mm.
Insta360 says the upgraded sensor offers up to 13.5 stops of dynamic range and promises the best image quality of any action camera on the market.
The sensor is combined with a dual-chip design, making the Ace Pro 2 the first action camera with a dedicated Pro Imaging Chip that handles image processing and noise reduction requirements, while a separate AI processor provides additional processing and drives overall camera performance.
Thanks to the dual-chip design and high-resolution image sensor, the Ace Pro 2 records 8K/30p and 4K/60p Active HDR video. The Ace Pro 2 also records 4K/120p slow-motion video, allowing users to capture high-speed action. While the original Ace Pro recorded 4K/60p video, 8K recording was previously limited to 24p.
The Ace Pro 2 also includes PureVideo, a specialized recording mode built using custom-trained AI neural networks. PureVideo promises significantly reduced noise, even in extremely low-light scenarios, and improved details for extra clarity.
In addition to the Summarit lens, Leica’s involvement with the Ace Pro 2 also affects the look of photos and videos. The Ace Pro features Leica-designed color profiles, which promise to bring Leica’s signature aesthetic to images.
Speaking of photos, the Ace Pro 2 can shoot JPG and DNG RAW photos at up to 50 megapixels. As for video files, they are recorded in MP4 format. 8K recording is available in 16:9 and 2.35:1 aspect ratios, while 4K recording is available in 4:3, 16:9 and 2.35:1. Active HDR and PureVideo are available up to 4K/60p. Slow Motion is available up to 4K/120p, but only in a 16:9 aspect ratio.
As an action camera, the Ace Pro 2 is built to capture dynamic, fast movements. These situations are rarely stable. The camera is equipped with 360 degree Horizon Lock, which is automatically applied in the camera to keep the horizon level. Furthermore, the camera has a built-in six-axis gyroscope.
More robust than ever
Compared to its impressive predecessor, the new Ace Pro 2 is much more robust. Water resistance has been increased to 12 meters (39 feet) out of the box, an increase of 10 meters (33 feet). Users can take the camera to 60 meters (197 feet) using an optional diving case. The camera can handle temperatures down to -20 degrees Celsius (-4 degrees Fahrenheit), making it ready for winter sports and extreme climates.
The camera also has a new removable Lens Guard, which provides extra protection when needed. A new Wind Guard keeps wind noise to a minimum when needed. In addition to the physical protection, the camera features improved audio algorithms to ensure clearer recordings in different situations. Both new protectors attach magnetically to the camera, making them easy to remove or install.
Another major design improvement is a better flip touchscreen. Although slightly larger (2.5 versus 2.4 inches diagonally), the main improvement is a 70% increase in pixel density and a 6% increase in screen brightness, making the screen sharper and easier to use.
The Ace Pro 2 is compatible with new accessories and third-party devices, including products from Garmin, Apple, COROS and Nike Run Club. The Ace Pro 2 can also be paired with motorcycle helmet headsets from Sena, Cardo and more. Those without special accessories can pair their phone with the action camera to link real-time GPS data to the camera.
The Insta360 Ace Pro 2 offers AI editing
In addition to the AI-powered improvements to picture and audio quality, the Ace Pro 2 also uses AI to make it easier for users to create worthwhile videos. The Ai Highlights Assistant automatically finds the best moments in a video and delivers the highlights for review, all in the camera itself.
Users can take even more photos and videos when used with a compatible smartphone with the Insta360 app installed. The app includes AI-powered auto-editing, creative Shot Lab effects, and tons of editing features like cuts, clips, and transitions. Like other recent Insta360 cameras, the Ace Pro 2 also works with selfie sticks and an AI Selfie Stick Eraser to create seamless third-person views of action.
While the AI features are intended to help new users, the Ace Pro 2 is also built with experienced content creators in mind. The camera supports time code, log recording and manual control of shutter speed, ISO and white balance.
Thanks to the improved battery of 1,800 mAh, instead of 1,650 mAh, the Ace Pro 2 lasts longer. In addition to the larger battery, a new Endurance mode offers 50% longer runtime at 4K/30p than its predecessor. The camera can also charge 80% in 18 minutes or 100% in 47 minutes.
Prices and availability
The Insta360 Ace Pro 2 is available now for $399.99. The standard bundle includes the camera, a windshield, one battery, a stand mount, a microphone cover, and a USB-C cable. A Dual Battery Bundle adds a second battery and costs $419.99.
Image credits: Insta360
