Video stabilization is a cornerstone technology in content creation, transforming shaky clips into cinematic masterpieces. At the forefront of this evolution was ReelSteady, a tool initially revered by the FPV drone community for its unparalleled stabilization capabilities. This blog post goes into the journey of ReelSteady from a standalone application to its integration into GoPro’s ecosystem, ultimately rebranding as HyperSmooth Pro within the GoPro Premium+ subscription.

The ReelSteady Era

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ReelSteady emerged as a groundbreaking stabilization software, leveraging gyro data from GoPro cameras to smooth out video footage. Unlike traditional stabilization tools that depended on scene analysis, ReelSteady offered a novel approach, setting a new standard for video quality and becoming a favorite among drone pilots and filmmakers alike.

GoPro’s Strategic Acquisition

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In March 2020, GoPro announced the acquisition of ReelSteady, marking a pivotal moment in the company’s strategy to enhance its application ecosystem. This move aimed to integrate ReelSteady’s advanced stabilization technology across GoPro’s platforms, promising to elevate the cinematic output of GoPro users’ content to new heights.

Integration into GoPro Player + ReelSteady

Following the acquisition, ReelSteady’s technology was seamlessly integrated into the GoPro software suite, culminating in the launch of GoPro Player + ReelSteady. This application combined the best of both worlds: ReelSteady’s award-winning stabilization and GoPro’s robust editing tools. It introduced features such as lens correction, batch exporting, and the ability to reframe 360 MAX content, all while ensuring compatibility with HyperSmooth footage for even smoother results.

Rebranding to HyperSmooth Pro

The integration journey reached its zenith with rebranding ReelSteady’s technology as HyperSmooth Pro, now a key feature of the GoPro Premium+ subscription. This transition signified a shift from a standalone product to an integral part of GoPro’s subscription service, offering subscribers enhanced video stabilization capabilities, additional cloud storage, and a suite of exclusive features designed to empower content creators.

Impact on Users

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For existing ReelSteady users, GoPro ensured a smooth transition, offering pathways to upgrade and continue benefiting from the software’s capabilities within the new framework. This move not only preserved the value for current users but also opened up new possibilities for creators seeking professional-grade stabilization, setting a new standard in the industry.

Conclusion

The evolution of ReelSteady into HyperSmooth Pro represents a significant milestone in the video stabilization landscape. By integrating this advanced technology into its subscription service, GoPro has reaffirmed its commitment to innovation and quality, promising to continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in content creation.