With just few days left before GoPro Hero5 cameras arrive in Malaysia through selected authorized dealers on 3 October, FunSportz which is exclusive distribution partner for GoPro in our market has hosted a launch event for both cameras earlier today. To our surprise, the equally new GoPro Karma drone also made an appearance at the event.
As you might have read from our previous report, GoPro touted Karma as a complete system rather than just a drone. One of its main attraction is the drone’s (and the company’s first ever) gimbal-based stabilizer that can be removed and used with Karma Grip which included together with the drone and acts as a handheld mount for the stabilizer.
At the same time, the standard Karma package also comes with a customized backpack hard case that able to fit the full drone as well as its propellers, controller, batteries, and charger. In addition to the drone’s foldable structure, the case helps users transport the full Karma system easily.
As for compatibility, the Karma is designed to fit Hero5 Black as well as Hero4 Black and Silver while support for Hero5 Session will be made available in 2017. Meanwhile, the Karma drone has a maximum speed of around 56.33 km/h and with a maximum flight time of 20 minutes, it can be controlled from as far as 3,000 meters away.
The Karma also comes with a gamepad-style wireless controller that has a built-in 720p touch display and dedicated button for easy take-off as well as landing. The controller itself has a battery life of 4 hours.
In a response to media members during Q&A session, FunSportz representative has stated that the Karma drone will not be officially available in Malaysia within this year. Instead, the company expected that it will be able to release the drone into our market in 2017.
No pricing information for Malaysia is available at this moment as well but as a reference, Karma’s price in United States starts at USD 799.99 (about RM 3,300). So, there is still time to start saving your money if you planning to get your hands on the new GoPro Karma.
