Insta360’s new Flow Pro is a small smartphone stabilizer that is the first to be Apple DockKit-enabled, meaning that it can use Apple’s new subject-tracking technology.
DockKit, which is compatible with iOS17+ and iPadOS17+, interfaces with motorized stands (and gimbals) to allow the iPhone to track objects, including “improved” tracking when it can use combined body and face tracking for human subjects.
“This feature, known as system tracking, automatically starts as soon as a person docks iPhone onto a compatible motorized stand and launches the Camera app. For example, system tracking is useful for content creators who want the camera to follow them while they move around their space, or instructors on a video call who are walking around a classroom,” Apple explains.
DockKit was first demonstrated earlier this year at WWDC 2024 and Insta360 wasted no time integrating it into a new handheld gimbal. Insta360 says that the main advantage of integrating with this platform is that the system is built into the native camera app and just works. There is no special calibration and no need to launch a separate app. Users just mount the phone onto the Flow Pro, fire up the camera app, and it’s ready to go.
“For an even smoother filming experience, Flow Pro recognizes your phone automatically with one-tap pairing. By utilizing the smartphone’s NFC function, simply place your phone near the gimbal and pair. After the first time, Flow Pro automatically reconnects when the phone is nearby,” Insta360 says.
Insta360 adds that the Flow Pro enables accurate tracking with the iPhone’s native camera app and over 200 third-party iOS apps “for a seamless shooting experience;” that includes FaceTime, Zoom, and TikTok.
Flow Pro also comes with its own AI tracking algorithm called Deep Track 3.0, which Insta360 says can follow a user or a desired subject even in complex environments with infinite pan tracking for a full 360-degree rotation and three-axis stabilization, which the company says cancels out shaking.
The Flow Pro is meant to be an all-in-one solution, combining a retractable selfie stick, tripod, power back, and built-in cold shoe into a small, easy-to-use, system that lasts up to 10 hours.
Insta360 Flow Pro is available today for $149 and includes a magnetic phone clamp, charge cable, grip cover, and protective pouch.
Image credits: Insta360