Insta360 is launching the GO Ultra, a new, tiny action cam on the market that enables high-quality 4K recordings at 60 frames per second despite its small size. The camera weighs just 53 grams and is about the size of a smartwatch or an Oreo biscuit. The built-in 1/1.28-inch sensor is 221 per cent larger than the previous model and works together with a new 5-nanometre AI chip to deliver good results even in low light conditions. The GO Ultra will be available from 21 August 2025 from the Insta360 Store, Amazon and selected retailers at a price of 429 euros. The standard bundle includes the standalone camera, the Action Pod, a quick-release safety cord, a magnetic Easy Clip, a magnetic pendant, a USB-C cable and a lens protector.
Technical equipment and functions
The GO Ultra combines a large 1/1.28-inch sensor with a 5-nanometre AI chip, which, according to Insta360, reduces visual noise and speeds up image processing. An additional ambient light sensor is designed to reduce flickering and calibrate colours in real time. The camera records videos in 4K resolution at 60 frames per second and offers special modes such as Active HDR and PureVideo for recording in low light conditions. The standalone camera can be attached to metallic surfaces using the integrated magnetic base. Transmission from the camera to the Action Pod takes place in real time via Bluetooth so that recordings can be viewed directly on the pod's 2.5-inch touchscreen. The GO Ultra is IPX8 waterproof and can be used at depths of up to 10 metres. But be careful! This only applies to the camera, not to the camera in conjunction with the Action Pod.
Battery life and storage options
The standalone camera of the GO Ultra offers a battery life of 70 minutes; in combination with the Action Pod, the battery life is extended to up to 200 minutes. The quick-charging system allows the battery to be charged to 80 per cent within 12 minutes. In contrast to the previous GO 3S model, which had a fixed internal memory, the GO Ultra uses removable microSD cards with a capacity of up to 2 terabytes. This allows the memory card to be changed quickly when it is full, without the need for cumbersome file transfers.
Mounting options and accessories
Thanks to its small size and low weight of 53 grams, the GO Ultra can be used in a variety of ways. The integrated magnetic base allows it to be attached to metallic surfaces. The scope of delivery includes an improved magnetic pendant and a magnetic Easy Clip for hands-free shooting. The magnetic pendant is simply hung around the neck like a chain and can be concealed under clothing. Depending on whether the camera lens is at the top left or top right, it films in portrait or landscape format. There are practical drawings on the magnetic pendant to prevent accidentally filming in the wrong format.
Insta360 also offers additional accessories, including removable sticky pads and a special hat clip called "Toddler-Titan". The camera can be combined with the swivel mount and the flexi-loop mount to enable different perspectives. The standard bundle is available in the colours night black and polar white.
Software and editing options
The free Insta360 app for iOS and Android allows you to quickly upload and edit your recordings. The app offers intuitive controls and AI tools that can add transitions, effects and music with just a few taps. With the "Automatic editing" function, highlights are automatically recognised and compiled into a video. Especially for cyclists, there is the option to synchronise GPS data, heart rate and speed from Strava or other third-party devices with the recordings in real time. The new "AI family moments" feature summarises special moments in a virtual album.
First test
We've already had various action cams in our hands: from GoPro to DJI and Insta360. The latest from Insta360 is the X5 360° camera. The first step is to connect the camera to the corresponding app. We already had this on our smartphone. Then we need to learn how to use the new device. Where is which button? Where is what set? If you know a little about the basics, you will quickly find your way around the settings. Practical: many of the settings directly indicate which types of sport and movement they are ideal for. For stabilisation, "Standard" is sufficient for road biking, while "High" should be selected for MTB.
With the Action Pod, the camera sits better in the hand than other action cameras. This is due to the rubberised and angled grip surface on the front. The flip-up display on the Action Pod makes it easier to take selfies. After some initial familiarisation with the camera's operation, it is easy to use. Recorded video files can be processed or downloaded directly via the smartphone app.
Technical specifications
- Weight: 53 grams (standalone camera)
- Sensor: 1/1.28 inch (221 per cent larger than previous model)
- Processor: 5-nanometre AI chip
- Video resolution: 4K at 60 fps
- Special modes: Active HDR, PureVideo
- Water resistance: IPX8 (up to 10 metres deep)
- Battery life: 70 minutes (standalone camera), 200 minutes (with Action Pod)
- Quick charge function: 80 per cent in 12 minutes
- Memory: Exchangeable microSD cards (up to 2 TB)
- Display: 2.5-inch flip touchscreen (Action Pod)
- Connectivity: Bluetooth
- Available colours: Night black, Polar white
- Price: 429 Euro (RRP)
