Insta360 X5: Light & runtime: Actioncam gets summer update with new features

The Chinese camera manufacturer Insta360 is launching a comprehensive summer update for its flagship camera range.Actioncam X5 to. The update of the new actioncam released in spring brings a range of new functions and improvements designed to make the camera more powerful and versatile. The focus is on AI-supported functions, extended application options and improvements to the user interface. According to the manufacturer, the new features are based on user feedback and are designed to solve real creative challenges. The X5 is characterised by its ability to capture the entire environment in 360 degrees and thus offer users maximum flexibility in subsequent image composition. With the update, Insta360 aims to improve this workflow in all aspects and make the X5 an even more versatile creative tool.

AdaptiveTone for optimum exposure

One of the main innovations is the AdaptiveTone function. It is designed to improve the exposure in scenes with strong contrast differences. Previously, it was often difficult for 360-degree cameras with two lenses to equalise the exposure across both lenses, for example when shooting through a door with bright sunlight on one side and shadows on the other.

AdaptiveTone now records light data for both lenses independently of each other. This is intended to preserve highlights and shadow details across the entire spherical image. The exposure is then automatically adjusted to the perspective selected by the user. The result is natural-looking images in situations that would normally require compromises or extensive post-processing. AdaptiveTone is available for 8K video at 30 frames per second and 5.7K video at 30 frames per second.

More about action cams:

>> 4 action cams in a quick check: How to get your helmet camera under control!

>> DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro: High-resolution action cam to compete with the GoPro

>> Lamax W9.2 - POV camera at a great price

Improved low-light performance and battery life

The PureVideo function, which was previously only available for 360-degree videos, can now also be used in single-lens mode. It is intended to ensure improved low-light performance with reduced image noise and better colour fidelity. According to the manufacturer, this allows users to take high-quality shots even in low light conditions, regardless of whether they are recording traditional flat videos or 360-degree content.

Insta360 has also significantly improved the battery life of the X5. Endurance mode is now also available for 8K recordings and is said to enable almost two hours of continuous recording at a maximum resolution of 8K and 30 frames per second. For 5.7K recordings at 24 frames per second, the runtime in endurance mode has been increased from 185 to 208 minutes. Insta360 also offers a new ultra battery with 2800 mAh, which should increase the runtime by a further 17 per cent to just under 4 hours.

Optimised processing and cloud services

Insta360 has revised both the mobile app and the Insta360 Studio desktop software for post-processing the recordings. As part of the update, the app has been given a new smart grid layout on the album page and a revised preview page with new editing tools. In the desktop version, the export speed has been improved and a background export and improvements to the AI stitching algorithm have been introduced. A new quick preview function makes it possible to view insv files directly in the folder on the computer without opening them in Studio. The Insta360+ cloud service offers up to 2TB of cloud storage, automatic file backup and cloud editing and export. Subscribers can now access all their Insta360+ material in Insta360 Studio.