Table of Contents

Configuring gopro max2 for spatial data acquisition

This article describes how to properly configure the GoPro Max2 panoramic camera, including key steps such as hardware preparation, firmware flashing, camera parameter settings, physical installation requirements, and environmental checks, to ensure high-quality data collection for EasyAR Mega spatial mapping.

Note

The Max2 body has prominent Max2 lettering on the side, and both lenses are coaxial, as shown in the side view below. This distinguishes it from the Max (where the lenses are not coaxial). If your device is GoPro Max, please refer to the GoPro Max Configuration Guide for setup.

max2look

Note

GoPro Max2 requires flashing a specified version of the official beta Labs firmware and scanning a specific QR code for configuration before use. Not all GoPro beta firmware versions are compatible; please download the dedicated firmware from the links provided on this page.

Using specified firmware on gopro max2

The default firmware of GoPro Max2 cannot directly upload panoramic videos to the EasyAR Mega server. You need to flash the specified version of the official beta (Labs) firmware and scan a specific QR code for configuration. To use GoPro Max2 for EasyAR Mega, complete the following steps in sequence: download firmware, flash firmware, scan QR code to configure the device.

flowchart LR

A[Download firmware] --> B[Flash firmware] --> C[Scan QR code for settings]

Download specified firmware

We provide Baidu Netdisk and Google Drive download links. Please choose based on your needs.

Note

The beta firmware for GoPro Max2 is provided officially by GoPro and will not damage the camera or affect warranty. Flashing this firmware enables flexible configuration of advanced camera features for Mega use. You can easily flash back to the official firmware when not using Mega.

Flashing beta firmware

After downloading the firmware above, follow these steps to flash your GoPro Max2 camera:

  1. Unzip the downloaded firmware file to a computer folder. unzipfimrware

  2. Copy the entire unzipped update folder to the root directory of the SD card. copyfimrware

  3. Insert the SD card into the powered-off Max2 camera.

  4. Ensure battery level is above 20%. After powering on, the screen will display Updating... indicating firmware update is in progress. updatefimrware

  5. After completion, the system prompts "Update complete" and reboots. The camera enters standby mode.

Note

If the GoPro Quik App prompts for a new firmware update, do not proceed.

Scan qr code to configure camera

  1. After installing the Labs firmware, scan the QR code below, which contains essential settings for Mega. max2qr

  2. Reboot the device. Upon startup, if the screen displays the following, the firmware flash and camera configuration are successful.

    max2confirm

Note

Download the Labs firmware only from our provided links. Firmware from other sources, even if the version matches, cannot be used for Mega.

Camera accessory preparation

In addition to the GoPro Max2 camera, you need the following accessories:

  1. GoPro Max2 camera mount adapter

  2. 120 cm selfie stick (GoPro official selfie stick recommended)

  3. High-speed SD card

    • Recommend SanDisk V30 or UHS-3 speed class or higher.
    • Recommended capacity: 256GB or larger.

    Reason: Panoramic video requires massive write operations. Low-speed cards cause recording interruptions or dropped frames, making data unusable.

  4. GoPro Max2 original battery

    • Panoramic video recording drains battery quickly. Prepare at least 1-2 extra batteries or use a high-capacity power bank for direct power supply.
    • Note: Do not change batteries during a single acquisition session. Extra batteries are for multiple sessions only.
    • Summer tip: During outdoor summer collection, remove the battery and use only a power bank (battery use causes GoPro Max2 to overheat and shut down).

  5. GoPro Max2 lens cap

  6. Type-C data cable

  7. Power bank (optional, recommended)

GNSS positioning settings

Mega service relies on GNSS (GPS, BeiDou, etc.) data to determine the geographic coordinate system for spatial maps. Ensure GPS status is On.

Swipe down from the main screen. The left image shows GNSS/GPS On; the right shows Off.

max2gpsstatus

If your GNSS/GPS shows "Off", follow the steps below to enable it: Preferences->GPS->On. max2gpspon

Must-read before acquisition: GNSS lock confirmation

Before pressing record, ensure the camera is stationary outdoors in an open area for 1-2 minutes. Observe the GPS icon turning solid/bright (indicating satellite lock).

Note

Mega localization works indoors or basements without GNSS signals. Enabling GNSS outdoors improves Mega's accuracy.

Set anti-flicker

Set camera anti-flicker to 50 Hz. Steps: Preferences->Region->Regional Format->50Hz(PAL).

Set anti-flicker

Set video format

Check and set video format to 360-degree video, RES|FPS: 5.6K|25. Must set profile to Standard, resolution to 5.6K, and framerate to 25Hz. Configuration steps: Set video format

Physical installation and environmental check

Inspect and clean lenses

  1. Ensure no lens scratches exist. Blurry images from scratches directly impact mapping quality.

    Blurry lens

  2. Clean lenses before acquisition. Do not clean during recording.

    Note

    Panoramic lenses protrude significantly and easily collect fingerprints. Grease on lenses causes flare under strong light, destroying image features and causing mapping "ghosting" or localization drift.

  3. Remove lens covers before acquisition.

Camera installation and holding method

Panoramic camera installation

  1. Camera orientation: Screenless side faces forward; screen side faces you. Remove all lens covers.

  2. Selfie stick adjustment: Extend stick fully, one head-length above your height.

  3. Holding posture:

    • Hold vertically throughout, close to your ear to position the camera directly above your head. Do not rest on your shoulder.
    • Hold the selfie stick with both hands. Move steadily while collecting to maintain stability and prevent lens obstruction.
    • Do not use phones while walking.
    • Avoid spinning in place or sudden large movements during acquisition.
    • If the camera bumps or falls during collection, stop immediately, resecure it, and restart the acquisition from the beginning.

  4. Device connection: Place the power bank connected to GoPro via data cable in your pocket.

Installation height

  • Install the camera at the top of the selfie stick.
  • Raise the stick to maintain camera height between 1.5m - 1.8m (typical height of end-user phone or XR glasses cameras).
  • Keep the selfie stick vertical to minimize the operator's body proportion in the frame.

Height requirements in different environments

Environment type Recommended height range
Outdoor environments 1.6m ~ 1.9m
Indoor open environments 1.6m ~ 1.8m
Indoor low-ceiling spaces 1.55m ~ 1.65m
Important

Outdoor collection: Position the camera at least 20cm above your head. Otherwise, the operator dominates the frame, affecting mapping.

Indoor enclosed low-ceiling collection: In offices, corridors, or exhibitions, lower the stick height. Ensure GoPro does not exceed 1.65m to prevent the operator's body from dominating the frame.

Next steps

After device configuration, proceed to:

Further reading

Learn more about GoPro Max2 and GoPro Labs: