Launch day has finally arrived for GoPro's first drone, following its introduction last month, but the company has a lot of ground to make up against its rivals.
While it may be better known for its rugged cameras, GoPro isn't content to leave the drone market to companies like DJI with its Phantom range or new small Mavic Pro, which costs a similar amount as the Karma.
At the time of writing, the UK store is still showing a 'coming soon' page, along with Karma units compatible with Hero5 and Hero4 cameras. Both models of Karma without a camera cost £719 in the UK ($799 in the US), while the 'Karma plus Hero5 Black' bundle costs £999. On its own, a Hero5 Black costs £349, so the bundle represents a saving of around £70.
The Karma's biggest competition is likely to be from the Mavic Pro, which just about tops it on paper. although both have slightly different purposes.
Nonetheless, GoPro is going to need to convince buyers that it's not just dabbling in the drone market, and that it's here to stay. Making an investment in a drone isn't a cheap endeavour, so you naturally want to make sure that the camera company that made your device is serious about the business.
The Karma's a pretty solid shot at that though.
