Polar, a manufacturer of sports and fitness devices, announced it is adding some interesting new features to one of its most popular wearables. Owners of the V800 multisport GPS watch will soon have the ability to connect with a GoPro Hero 5 camera, as well as the Stryd power meter for runners, giving them better access to training metrics as a result. The new functionality is available via the latest software update for the V800, which should be available on Thursday.
Once installed, the updated allows users to connect their V800 to a
GoPro Hero 5
via Bluetooth, giving them the ability to change the camera’s settings, start and stop video recording, and take photos directly from the watch itself. They will also be able to review the resolution of photos and video, check their frames-per-second settings, and monitor video field of view information right from the V800’s screen. In addition to being able to control the camera directly from the watch, users also gain the ability to add highlights from their workouts directly into their videos too.
Image used with permission by copyright holder
The inclusion of support for the Stryd power meter will be especially useful for serious runners. The device is the first power meter designed specifically for running, keeping track of a host of metrics throughout a workout. When paired with a V800, that data can be displayed on the watch’s screen in real time, keeping athletes abreast of their current performance. Some of the metrics tracked include power, elevation, cadence, pace, distance, and much more. With that data at their fingertips, competitive runners can easily identify areas that they need to focus on to become faster and more efficient.
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In addition to these new features, the V800 ships with GPS tracking, daily activity monitoring, built-in personal training programs, calorie counting, sleep tracking, and more. When paired with a smartphone, the watch can even display incoming text messages, alerts, and social media updates. It sells for $500.
GoPro unveils lifestyle gear to go with your action camera
GoPro is expanding its product range to outdoor gear with the launch this week of a range of branded items that includes bags, apparel, and accessories.
Having made its name with action cameras, the California-based company is now hoping to generate some extra income with sales of branded gear aimed at outdoor types.
GoPro Labs unlocks hidden advanced features for action cam enthusiasts
GoPro is experimenting with a host of powerful features that may be added to its Hero8 Black action camera, but you can gain access to the features now through the new GoPro Labs program. The new platform allows GoPro’s biggest fans to play with features still in development, as well as unlocking others that may never actually make it to a GoPro model.
"It allows us to do some pretty funky things with the camera," Pablo Lema, GoPro's Vice President of Product and User Experience, told Digital Trends. "It helps us reach some use cases that are very specific that don’t necessarily have large user bases."
GoPro’s #HomePro contest wants you to stay stoked while you’re stuck inside
Given current events, going viral may sound in poor taste, but GoPro wants to give you a chance to do just that -- without leaving the safety of your home. The company, whose Hero cameras have filmed some of the gnarliest actions sports scenes ever to take place on land, underwater, or in the sky, is turning its lens to a new environment in light of the COVID-19 pandemic: Your living room.
The GoPro #HomePro challenge invites you to share your best indoor or backyard photos and videos for a chance to win a GoPro Hero8 Black or Max camera. The Hero8 Black is our current favorite action camera, while the Max, a 360-degree camera, is a bit more niche, but is still one of the best options in that category.
