Insta360 X6 launches with larger sensors, 8K/50fps and AI editing for $699.99

Insta360 has officially released the X6, the latest iteration of its 360-degree action camera line, succeeding the X5 and X4 Air models. The device introduces a more compact form factor alongside significant hardware upgrades, including larger Sony sensors and enhanced video recording capabilities. The X6 is available from $699.99, representing a $150 increase over the launch price of the previous X5 model.

The X6 features a design that is a full inch shorter and 4 grams lighter than its predecessor, although it is slightly wider and thicker. This reduction in size was achieved without compromising internal capacity, as the device houses a 2,600mAh battery, up from the 2,400mAh unit in the X5. Insta360 claims this increase extends recording time by up to 51 percent, with the camera capable of approximately 140 minutes of recording at 8K/30fps.

Central to the X6’s performance is the adoption of custom 1/1.1-inch square Sony sensors. These offer 33 percent more sensor area than the 1/1.28-inch sensors used in the X5, providing four times the light intake per frame. This hardware improvement, supported by multiple AI chips dedicated to imaging, delivers better low-light performance and improved denoising. While not as large as the full 1-inch sensors found in the DJI Osmo 360, the X6’s sensors are positioned as a close competitor in the high-end action camera market.

Video capabilities have been substantially upgraded, with the X6 supporting 8K recording at up to 50fps, an increase from the 30fps limit of previous models. Additional options include 6K at 120fps and 4K at 240fps in 'Bullet Time' mode for slow-motion footage. When used as a standard 2D action camera with a single sensor, the device supports up to 5K/60fps or 120fps at 4K resolution. The X6 also introduces in-camera Dolby Vision support, allowing HDR footage to be captured with frame-by-frame brightness and contrast metadata.

Still photography resolutions have been raised to 120 megapixels for 360-degree images and 42 megapixels for single-sensor use. The camera retains the replaceable lens system introduced with the X5, which Insta360 states is now five times more scratch-resistant and 60 percent cheaper. Durability features include waterproofing to 66 feet and a dive case enabling filming up to 60 meters.

Software enhancements include the updated InstaFrame feature, which automatically creates social-media-friendly flat 4K videos by tracking subjects. A new AI function called PanoMind utilises a model trained on 10,000 hours of footage to automatically generate highlight reels while the device is charging. The X6 also features a 2.32-inch OLED touchscreen, replacing the 2.5-inch LCD display found on the X5.

The X6 is available in black or white from $699.99. An Essentials Bundle is offered for $799.99, which includes an additional battery, an invisible selfie stick, and a fast charging case. An optional X6 Power Selfie Stick accessory is also available to extend runtime by an additional 180 minutes.