GoPro Merger Raises Questions Over Mission 1 Support

GoPro’s acquisition by Starman Optical Inc has prompted TechRadar contributor Jon Stapley to cancel his pre-order for the new Mission 1 cameras.

In a September 1 statement, GoPro said Starman would acquire the action-camera maker in a deal involving $285 million in cash and the assumption of GoPro’s $92 million debts. Although the transaction was described as a merger, the statement emphasized GoPro’s “industry-leading imaging solutions” and its optics and intellectual property portfolio.

Starman Optical Inc develops optical transceivers and related infrastructure. Its website describes the company as “Manufacturing America’s AI Infrastructure.” Stapley said this positioning raised concerns that GoPro could shift its focus from consumer cameras toward optics and AI infrastructure.

GoPro CEO Nick Woodman said the merger would support growth across consumer, commercial and defense markets. The company also said it would continue to fully support its existing consumer products and its subscription and cloud platform.

Stapley said that assurance did not resolve questions about long-term support for the Mission 1 ecosystem, including the Quik app, firmware updates, accessories and mounts. He had been interested in the series because the cameras can use Micro Four Thirds lenses, but said he would hold off on purchasing a Mission 1 for now.