Action camera maker GoPro has announced a significant firmware update for the MAX2 360 camera, introducing a collection of performance and image-quality improvements along with a limited-time summer price drop. The company is temporarily reducing the MAX2’s retail price by $200, bringing it down to $299.99 from its original $499.99.
The headline addition in this firmware release is a new Maximum Bitrate setting. This option enables recording at up to 200 Mbps in both 8K 360° video and 4K single-lens video modes. Increasing the bitrate helps reduce compression artifacts and preserve fine detail, especially in high-motion scenes or footage with complex textures. For creators shooting action, sports, or fast-moving subjects, the higher bitrate should deliver cleaner, more detailed results out of the camera.
Beyond bitrate improvements, GoPro has broadened its professional color tools across all Time Lapse modes, including TimeWarp, Night Effects, Time Lapse, and Night Lapse. Users now have access to 10-bit color, which increases color depth for smoother gradients and better preservation of subtle tones. The update also enables GP-Log encoding for a flatter, more neutral image profile that gives editors greater latitude when color grading in post-production.
The update adds practical shooting aids as well. An anti-flickering toggle has been included so users can switch quickly between 60 Hz and 50 Hz shutter timing to combat indoor lighting flicker and the strobe effect caused by certain artificial lights. In addition, the Blur Reduction feature has been extended to single-lens video modes to help minimize motion blur in low-light conditions, improving sharpness when light is limited or when subjects are moving.
These enhancements are aimed at both enthusiasts and professional users who demand higher image fidelity and more flexible color workflows from a compact 360 camera. The combination of a higher maximum bitrate, expanded 10-bit and GP-Log support, and practical controls for flicker and motion blur strengthens the MAX2’s capabilities for creative video work, timelapse sequences, and content that will be heavily graded or repurposed.
The firmware update is available through the GoPro Quik app, and users can also perform a manual download from the official GoPro website. Installing the update will enable the new settings and features immediately, and users who plan to take advantage of higher bitrates or advanced color workflows should consider testing their preferred capture and post-production pipelines to optimize storage and editing performance.
If you own a MAX2 or are considering one, this update expands the camera’s creative and technical potential while the limited-time pricing makes it a more accessible option for those looking to step up their 360 or single-lens capture. As with any major firmware change, it’s a good idea to back up existing media and review release notes before applying the update to ensure compatibility with your accessories and editing workflow.