[matthewhughes]

I briefly worked for a GoPro competitor: VIO.

Our claim to fame was all of the added features that GoPro didn't have: a remote control, view-finder, advanced editing, et al.

Our price was significantly higher.

We got clobbered.

GoPro's simplicity is its secret weapon.

VIO makes a terrific product but missed the mark in terms of UI/UX.

[fieldforceapp]

I'm curious about what you think is still a viable way to compete with GoPro: is it only on price, or are there some missing features that a potential competitor exploit -- the UI/UX you mention? If RED comes out with a water-proof camera I guess that takes care of the high-end, so is the only way to compete with GoPro to go... low end?

[hristov]

There is one annoying thing about these cameras -- they have a large profile/bad aero dynamics. This seems like something that would not be too hard to address either.

First of all they look silly (e.g. if you wear them on your helmet). A more aero-dynamic design would look better. Also, at the high speeds of some of the sports this is used with this may actually cause problems.

Take skiing for example -- a professional downhill skier can easily reach and pass 80 mph. This camera will cause so much drag that if it does not fly off it will probably cause a lot of discomfort by jerking the skier's head up. But even at the lower speeds of advanced amateurs this will cause problems.

But of course the most important thing for a product like this is looks, and a more aerodynamic design would definately look better.

[matthewhughes]

I totally agree.

For sports, there is certainly a performance aspect (in this case, aero-dynamics).

But even outside of sports...if you really want people using p-o-v cameras on a regular, everyday basis, the design needs to improve dramatically.

[matthewhughes]

Honestly, I'm not sure what GoPro's software looks like any more? (I assume it's pretty solid.) But that could be an opportunity.

Also, I believe the design and aesthetics could really be improved.

If you really want more people using a p-o-v camera more often, it needs to be a little less intrusive (the GoPro looks pretty awful). A streamlined, low profile camera with the ease and simplicity of a GoPro would be a winner.

[papalalu]

Really the only downside for average consumers is that the gopro doesn't give as spectacular images in low light - for obvious reasons at that price point, and i haven't seen any alternatives that do much better. this is also an aspect that is rapidly improving.. right now, i don't see any way to jump on this bandwagon. they do it too well.

[matthewhughes]

As I commented above, the design and aesthetic of the GoPro could really be improved.

I think that could move the needle.

But you're right, GoPro is killing it. Tough to beat right now.

[arethuza]

VIO were involved in my all time favourite ski film: http://vimeo.com/33516816

[matthewhughes]

VIO is a great product, no doubt.

I made my personal ski movies with my VIO.