I have two GP Hero 6 camera's. They've always worked without issue and have remained reliable. I didn't upgrade to the GP7 becuase from what I read, it was basically just an overclocked GP6 with a 2GB buffer slapped onto it for use as a buffer for the stability algorithm. Since the GoPro is a pretty small form factor for recording high quality video, heat always plays a factor and having an overclocked camera didn't really sound like a good idea to me. Also apart from improved stability and timewarp, it just wasn't enough to justify an upgrade.
In the case of the GP8, it's (rumored) to be using an entirely new chip (GP2) instead of just an overclocked chip, so I'm hoping that means it's a lot more stable and reliable as a result. Unfortunately we have to wait another 24 hours before any annoucement (and I hope it's the release of the camera and not a hey, it goes on sale in December!) so we'll just have to wait for reviews.
I may upgrade to the 8 providing it offers enough features to make it a worthwhile jump from the 6. I'm looking specifically at the stabilization, low light performance, durability, operating time and bluetooth microphone compatability (come on GoPro, everyone wants it, make it happen!)
As for the 360 Max......... I have 2 GoPro Fusions as it is, the addition of an LCD screen isn't enough of a reason to buy (it actually seems ridiculous to me since you're recording a 360 degree sphere anyway, but some people wanted it..). Even if the camera offers in camera stitching, still not enough of an incentive for me to upgrade. Now if it offers compatability with Google Street View then yes, I'm very much interested. Also (again) lowlight performance and operating time.
However all in all, I need a very solid reason for upgrading and so far, I'm just not holding my breath that I'm going to get it. I know GoPro needs to be secretive with their products and what they are working on, but I really haven't seen anything to get me hyped up about the new camera's. So I really think the marketing department needs a wakeup call on this one.
