New Garmin VIRB X and VIRB XE Action Cameras announced

Navigation gadget company Garmin goes after GoPro with an updated line of action cameras.

Navigation company Garmin today announced an updated line of HD action cameras with the VIRB X and VIRB XE. Compact and capable of shooting high-definition, wide-angle footage, VIRB X and XE feature an all-new form factor allowing for more mounting options.

Waterproof to 50m, the updated camera design is even more rugged, and doesn’t require an external case for underwater shooting. In addition to enhanced video and audio modes, VIRB X and XE have several of built-in sensors and wireless functionality options, which can be utilized through the new G-Metrix feature for a wide array of data overlays and a richer viewing experience.

“With the updated design, enhanced recording options, built-in sensors and the introduction of G-Metrix, VIRB X and XE represent a bold step forward in the evolution of action cameras for consumers and professionals alike,” said Dan Bartel, Garmin vice president of worldwide sales. “We are extremely excited to bring these cameras to market, and see not only the content that users share, but also how far, how fast, and how crazy their adventures really are.”

The Garmin VIRB XE is designed to shoot professional HD footage at 1440p/30fps and 1080p/60fps with super slow-mo, image stabilization and different zoom levels. VIRB X shoots HD footage at 1080p/30fps and 720p/60fps with slow-mo and zoom options.

With the still image sensor, both versions can capture sharp still photos and photo bursts with up to 12MP image quality. Additionally, VIRB XE has a Pro Mode with more advanced manual camera adjustments such as white balance control, sharpness control, color profile control, ISO limit and exposure bias.

Featuring a hydrophobic, flat glass lens, underwater shots are clear while transitions in and out of the water are unobstructed by droplets. With the updated design, VIRB X and XE boast a new microphone for better audio, even underwater, and Bluetooth Audio connectivity for Bluetooth-enabled headsets or microphones. VIRB X and XE also have improved, more professional and secure mounts with a non-slip allen head tightening system, allowing maximum torque for impact and vibration resistance.

VIRB X and XE are equipped with a variety of built-in sensors, and the ability to connect wirelessly to even more through Bluetooth, ANT+ and Wi-Fi, so users are recording more than just video. With G-Metrix, VIRB X and XE utilize internal sensors like the high-sensitivity GPS, accelerometer and gyroscope, and compatible devices and accessories like an HRM-Run, fēnix 3 multisport watch or Vector power meter to track movements in real time and capture more performance data. Additionally VIRB X and XE are compatible with Bluetooth-enabled OBD tools to capture true vehicle data like speed, RPM and throttle position.

Through the built-in Wi-Fi, users can now connect VIRB X and XE to the VIRB Mobile app on both smartphones and tablets. With VIRB Mobile, users can get a live stream of video to setup shots and see what’s being recorded, control and view multiple cameras, or even quickly edit and overlay G-Metrix data, making it easier than ever to upload and share video content. Additionally, when connected to the mobile app, users will never lose their camera with the VIRB tracking feature, which records the last known GPS position of the camera for easy recovery.

Using removable and rechargeable batteries, VIRB X and XE can get up to 2 hours of battery life at 1080p and store video and data on microSD cards. The cameras also feature weatherproof contacts for rugged charging and powering on the go.

The Garmin VIRB X and XE will be available for purchase in summer 2015. VIRB X will have a suggested retail price of $299.99, and VIRB XE will have a suggested retail price of $399.99.