Garmin has entered the action‑camera arena with two new models, the VIRB and VIRB Elite, offering a compelling blend of rugged design, long battery life, and seamless integration with the company’s broader ecosystem of GPS and fitness devices.
Both cameras are built around a durable, waterproof (IPX‑7) housing that can withstand accidental immersion up to one meter for 30 minutes—ideal for skiing, kayaking, or any extreme sport. The 1.4‑inch Chroma™ color display uses ambient light, conserving power while allowing quick setup and playback in bright sunlight. With a 3‑hour battery life on a single charge, you can film an entire afternoon of downhill action without interruption.
Key features include:
- Full‑HD 1080p video and 16‑megapixel still photography (photo burst and time‑lapse supported)
- Digital image stabilization and lens‑distortion correction for smoother, cleaner footage right out of the camera
- MicroSD slot (up to 64 GB) and micro‑HDMI output for versatile storage and playback
- Digital display and single large slider for effortless recording
- ANT+™ connectivity to control the camera via Garmin devices (e.g., Edge® 810, fēnix™, Oregón® 600 series) and to ingest sensor data such as heart‑rate, cadence, and temperature
The VIRB Elite expands on the base model with built‑in GPS, accelerometer, altimeter, Wi‑Fi, and a dedicated Ski Mode that automatically starts recording when you descend a slope and pauses on the lift—saving battery and ensuring you never miss a run.
Both models support Garmin’s mobile and desktop applications, allowing you to preview, edit, and embed sensor data directly into your footage before sharing it on YouTube, Facebook, or Instagram.
Expect the VIRB to ship in September 2013 at a suggested retail price of $299.99, with the VIRB Elite priced at $399.99.
Full press release:
Garmin® Enters the Action Camera Market with Compact, Waterproof, Easy‑to‑Use HD Cameras, VIRB™ and VIRB Elite™
OLATHE, Kan. – (BUSINESS WIRE) – Garmin International Inc., a unit of Garmin Ltd. (NASDAQ: GRMN), the global leader in satellite navigation, announced the VIRB, its first true HD 1080p action camera series. The VIRB series offers a unique feature set that simplifies capturing life’s memories, from action sports to family vacations.
VIRB features a rugged, waterproof (IPX‑7) housing, a 1.4‑inch Chroma™ color display, and a lithium‑ion battery capable of up to three hours of true HD video on a single charge. On‑board enhancements—including digital image stabilization and lens‑distortion correction—ensure high‑quality footage without the need for post‑editing.
VIRB Elite adds Wi‑Fi, high‑sensitivity GPS, an accelerometer, an altimeter, and optional sensor integration. Its Ski Mode automatically records when descending a mountain and pauses on the ski lift, preserving battery life and memory.
Both cameras support ANT+™ connectivity for remote control and data transfer with Garmin fitness sensors. Users can also connect via Wi‑Fi to Garmin’s free mobile apps for iPhone and Android, and to the free desktop software for editing and uploading.
Garmin’s executives emphasized that the VIRB series offers “game‑changing key features—like a color display, extended battery life, optional GPS and compatibility with existing Garmin products—that set it apart from other cameras on the market.”
The VIRB and VIRB Elite will be available for purchase in September 2013. The suggested retail prices are $299.99 for the VIRB and $399.99 for the VIRB Elite. For more information, visit garmin.com/virb.
Garmin’s outdoor segment continues to innovate, providing essential tools for hikers, bikers, skiers, and other outdoor enthusiasts. Learn more at garmin.com/outdoors, garmin.blogs.com, or twitter.com/garmin.
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