Insta360 has rolled out a major firmware update and a suite of new accessories for its X5 360-degree camera, calling it the “Insta360 Summer Update.” The improvements target image quality, battery life, creative flexibility, and editing tools.
A major highlight is AdaptiveTone, a new exposure technology designed to handle the common challenge of balancing light across both lenses in 360-degree footage. It works by separately capturing lighting data for each lens and adjusting exposure dynamically based on the selected viewing angle. The result, according to Insta360, is better highlight and shadow detail and more natural-looking videos. AdaptiveTone is compatible with 8K 30fps and 5.7K 30fps 360 videos, as well as the flat PureVideo mode.
PureVideo also gets a major update, as it now supports single-lens mode in addition to 360 mode. This means creators can now capture low-light video with reduced noise and enhanced color accuracy, regardless of shooting format.
In terms of battery performance, the X5 now supports Endurance Mode at 8K, enabling nearly 2 hours of continuous recording. The 5.7K 24fps mode has also been improved, with battery life extended from 185 to 208 minutes. For those needing even longer runtime, Insta360 is offering a new $50 Ultra Battery, which boosts total battery life by about 17%—up to nearly four hours.
The update also includes new ND filters (ND16, ND32, and ND64) to help creators shoot in bright lighting by reducing shutter speed for smoother motion blur—ideal for capturing fast-moving activities like biking or motorsports. Additionally, users can now customize the X5’s lenses with a replacement lens kit featuring AI-generated artwork, preset designs, or personal images.
Motorcyclists are getting special attention in this update. The X5 now supports stabilization with subtle shake to enhance the sensation of speed, and it integrates with Sena headsets for voice-controlled, hands-free operation. A new GPS preview remote includes live monitoring, GPS tracking, a built-in noise-canceling microphone, and full camera control. There’s also a Plate Blur feature that automatically hides license plates in footage, eliminating the need for manual editing.
Underwater creators haven’t been left out. The update brings new dive accessories, including an Invisible Dive Case Pro and a buoyancy control tool. On the software side, the new AquaVision 3.0 algorithm analyzes underwater footage and applies appropriate color correction. X5 can also now integrate with Suunto dive computers, allowing dive data to be embedded directly into video.
Lastly, Insta360 has upgraded its Studio editing software with faster export times, background processing, and improvements to the AI Stitching algorithm. Users can also now preview video files directly in folders without opening the Studio app, making file management more efficient.
All updates and accessories are now available via Insta360’s official website.
