Insta360 Unveils Advanced AI-Powered 4K Webcams for Enhanced Video Conferencing and Streaming

Insta360 Unveils Advanced AI-Powered 4K Webcams for Enhanced Video Conferencing and Streaming

Insta360, a prominent entity in camera technology innovation, has introduced two new AI-powered 4K webcams, the Insta360 Link 2 and Insta360 Link 2C. These devices are engineered to elevate the quality of online video conferencing and live streaming by delivering high-resolution imaging and superior audio performance. Both models incorporate a 1/2" sensor and advanced HDR technology, ensuring detailed and balanced visuals even in low-light environments. Additionally, the webcams feature the latest AI-driven image enhancement and noise reduction capabilities, providing clear and lifelike video and audio without the necessity for external microphones. The Link 2 variant includes a built-in 2-axis gimbal and AI-powered motion tracking, allowing for smooth, stabilized footage and automatic subject framing, while the Link 2C offers similar high-quality imaging in a more compact, gimbal-free design. Priced at $199 and $149 respectively, these webcams are available for purchase through the Insta360 Official Store and select retail partners. The Link 2 series addresses the increasing demand for high-quality virtual communication tools by integrating sophisticated imaging and audio technologies. The larger 1/2" sensor captures more light and detail compared to standard webcams, enhancing performance in various lighting conditions. Coupled with HDR technology, the webcams achieve a greater dynamic range, balancing highlights and shadows effectively. Support for up to 4K30fps resolution ensures sharp and vibrant video output, facilitating more natural and engaging virtual interactions. Furthermore, the Link 2 series replicates a DSLR-like depth of field with a natural bokeh effect, adjustable via the Link Controller software. The True Focus feature employs Phase Detection Auto Focus (PDAF) for rapid and accurate focusing, minimizing blur and maintaining clarity during dynamic movements. Both models in the Link 2 series are equipped with advanced AI noise reduction technology, significantly improving audio quality by filtering out ambient sounds such as keyboard clicks, conversations, and traffic noise. The webcams offer three distinct audio profiles -- Voice Focus, Voice Suppression, and Music Balance -- to optimize sound based on the user's environment. Additionally, the AI-powered control features include Precision AI Tracking and Auto Framing, which keep the user centered in the frame during movement, and Group Tracking for multi-host scenarios. The Link 2 model introduces Pause-Track Areas, allowing users to designate specific zones where the camera should not follow, ideal for showcasing products or maintaining privacy during presentations. Gesture Control has been enhanced to enable hands-free operation, supporting actions like starting or stopping tracking, zooming, and activating Whiteboard Mode through simple hand movements. The Link 2 series also includes versatile tools such as Smart Whiteboard Mode, Full 4K Portrait Mode, Remote Smartphone Control, Background Replacement, DeskView Mode, One Click Makeup, and Privacy Mode, making them compatible with major video conferencing and streaming platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Twitch. These products are now available globally for $199 and $149 respectively, through the Insta360 Official Store, Amazon, and selected retailers.

Insta360's new webcam has 4K, HDR, and better audio -- and it's cheaper, too

Insta360 is introducing its latest pair of webcams to deliver top-of-the-line meeting experiences. The new Insta360 Link 2 and Link 2C are successors to last year's, and they both pack some notable upgrades, but mostly in terms of processing power and software features. They also come bearing brand-new designs, which are a bit bulkier than the previous model. Related Insta360 Link review: The best webcam, with some drawbacks The Insta360 Link is an AI-powered 4K webcam made for presenters and it has the best image quality around, though AI tracking is finicky. 4K, HDR, and improved audio Image credit: Insta360 The Insta360 Link 2 and Link 2C are nearly identical in most aspects of their specs. They both support 4K resolution and have a 1/2-inch sensor, just like their predecessor, along with a 79.5-degree field of view. The big differences start with HDR support. The Insta360 Link only supported HDR in 1080p or 720p resolutions, but now, you can use HDR even if you're shooting in 4K, which should help make them some of the best webcams on the market. They also come with new preset filters for video so you can get your preferred look more easily. In terms of smarts, the cameras also now come with a smart whiteboard mode, so they automatically detect a whiteboard rather than you having to use the included markers with the previous model in order to focus on a whiteboard. Specific to the Link 2, there's a new feature called "pause-track areas", which disable tracking in specific areas where you may not want the camera to follow you. Audio is also a big focus for the new models, both of which feature AI-powered noise cancellation so you sound clearer than ever on your calls. With new features like voice focus, voice suppression, and music balance, you can also adjust the audio experience to your specific needs at any given time. Otherwise, the cameras are very similar to the previous model in almost every way, though they are a bit larger, and the gimbal no longer allows the camera to rotate into portrait mode. Instead, you have to mount them vertically on a tripod to shoot in portrait. They're much cheaper Image credit: Insta360 Another big part of this announcement is that Insta360 is bringing its smarts and high-quality video to a new, lower price point, and especially so with the Insta360 Link 2C. Unlike the Link and Link 2, this new model of the webcam doesn't include a mechanical gimbal, so the camera can't track you as you mode wherever you go. Instead, the Link 2C relies solely on auto framing, like many other webcams do, though hopefully it's a bit faster than other implementations. Aside from that, though, this is exactly the same camera as the Link 2, with 4K resolution, a large sensor, smart auto-focus capabilities, and more. You're not sacrificing anything that isn't strictly related to the gimbal, and in exchange, you save $50. Indeed, the Insta360 Link 2C starts at $149.99, while the Link 2 costs $199.99. Even the more expensive model is $100 cheaper than the original Insta360 Link, though, which will continue to be available. Related Obsbot Tiny 2 Lite review: Almost all the quality for a fraction of the cost The Obsbot Tiny 2 Lite is an excellent solution if you can't spend $300 on a webcam The Insta360 Link 2 and Link 2C are now available If you're interested in these webcams, you can check them out using the link below. If you'd rather wait, we have review units of these webcams already in hand and we'll be publishing our review soon. Stay tuned for that if you'd like some more information. Insta360 Link 2 $200 at Amazon Insta360 Link 2C $150 at Amazon

Insta360 Unveils the New Link 2 Webcams

Insta360 today unveiled the Link 2 and Link 2C, its second-generation webcams for videoconferencing, livestreaming, education, and more. The new Link 2 and Link 2C couple an upgraded 0.5-inch imaging sensor with a custom AI algorithm for improved low-light performance, more detailed highlights, and more accurate shadows. Both webcams record in 4K at 30FPS (or 1080p at 60 FPS) with HDR, and both support true autofocus at a distance of 10cm, or about four inches. Of course, specialized modes like Voice Focus, Voice Supression, and Music balance are at the core of these new Insta360 Link cameras. You can create customize backgrounds to hide your messy room, enable DSLR-like natural bokeh, and more. There's also True Focus, which Insta360 claims uses "faster, more accurate Phase Detection Auto Focus (PDAF) to rapidly focus and avoid blurry shots." The whiteboard feature is very handy and works similarly to Desk View on macOS, where a camera mounted on your computer screen captures an overhead view to show your tabletop (thanks to perspective correction and similar video tricks). This mode is great for presenting during a video call, tutorial videos, education, tech support, etc. With Smart Whiteboard Mode, your Link will automatically detect the whiteboard from which you're currently presenting. Close The flagship Link 2 camera boasts a 2-axis gimbal that can pan and tilt the camera to follow your movements around a room. Its tracking algorithm supports something called Pause-Track Areas -- customizable boundaries where the camera won't track you. This is great when showcasing items or products on camera, such as during e-commerce livestreaming. AI also brings automatic zooming, cropping, and framing. Automatic cropping and framing work with multiple participants in the shot. Some folks prefer to cover their laptop's webcam with a piece of tape because "they might be spying on me." Insta360 is a Chinese-owned brand, so such concerns may be legitimate, but a built-in physical privacy shutter on these cameras should give you peace of mind when not using the webcam. And like the original, these new Links automatically spin their head downward after 10 seconds of inactivity (or you can manually tilt the lens downward). Insta360 also offers some upgraded accessories for its new webcams, and a new Magnetic Mount is included in the box for those times when you'd like to snap your Link onto a monitor or TV or an external tripod (via the built-in 1/4" mounting point). The new Link 2 and Link 2C require a Windows PC with at least Intel's i5-5 CPU and a Mac powered by macOS 10.13 or later. Some advanced features require an Intel i5-10 generation or later chip or macOS 13.0 or later. The Insta360 Link 2 and Link 2C are available to order from September 24 worldwide via the Insta360 web store, the Insta360 Amazon store, and select retailers. The Insta360 Link 2 is priced at $200 in the United States on Amazon, £200 in the United Kingdom, and €230 in the European Union. The Links 2C costs $150 in the United States on Amazon, £150 in the United Kingdom, and €170 in the European Union. Source: Insta360

One of the best webcams for work that I've tested isn't made by Logitech or Opal

AI tracking for presentations isn't perfect, but it's available As much as there's a push for remote work to move to hybrid, there's no doubt that virtual meetings will always be the norm. Business is global, so important meetings for business professionals will continue to be global. This means more Zoom, Google Meet, and Microsoft Teams. Also: The most versatile camera I've tested costs $499 and is not from Sony or Canon This also means high-quality webcams are a must-have in order to make a great visual impression in these virtual meetings. Insta360 is often considered to have one of the most flexible cameras for content creators. Now, however, the company has announced its Link 2 and Link 2C webcams for business professionals looking to change the world, one virtual meeting at a time. Webcam technology has progressed quickly. The Link 2 and Link 2C both demonstrate how far we've come -- the tech has not only gotten better but remains affordable for most. Let's look at these two webcams. While they have two different product names, they share a lot of the same tech specs. The Link 2 and Link 2C webcams offer a great resolution (like most cameras today) at up to 4K and 30 frames per second. This frame rate looks great during virtual meetings or talking head presentations. Also: I've been a professional live streamer for 10 years. These are my favorite studio lights Having a half-inch sensor on both the Link 2 and Link 2C is a big deal. It means lighting in a typical office or desk space will be adequate for optimal video performance. Granted, if you're a professional creator, you probably have dedicated studio lighting. You'll be surprised at how great the video quality of these webcams looks. In addition to the video and build quality, the Insta360 Link 2 and Link 2C comes with software to help assist in controlling the camera. The Link Controller app is pretty straightforward and easy to use, offering controls for exposure, HDR, motion tracking, virtual backgrounds, "professional" bokeh, and more. Most webcam providers offer a similar experience, but I find this software to be a bit easier to navigate. On both the Link 2 and 2C, you can easily turn off the camera via the hardware to ensure video isn't transmitting when you don't intend for it to. With the Link 2, just tilt the camera down. This will not only have the camera looking at the top edge of your monitor or mount, but it will also cut the transmission. Also: This $80 device is probably the only indoor security camera you'll need With the Link 2C, just slide the hardware shutter over the lens. The 2C is a stationary webcam, unlike its Link 2 sibling, which is on a gimbal. Having a hardware shutter cover is thus especially practical. In addition to securing the camera's lens, consider the internal microphone. If you're using at Link 2C, you'll need to manually mute your microphone in your computer's virtual meeting software. If you're using the Link 2, the Link Controller app allows you to mute directly via a toggle button. Speaking of internal microphones, the microphones on the Link 2 and 2C are... okay. Yes, Insta360 has integrated AI software to mitigate background noise and enhance your voice when using the camera, but it's not particularly my favorite sound. No disrespect to Insta360, but I find that all AI-enhanced audio needs additional human follow-up. It's better than nothing, but it's not going to sound perfect. In my tests, the AI works best when a constant noise is happening. If you have a random dog barking or a neighbor hammering a nail into the wall, the AI won't consider that as "noise." These cameras also have an AI feature called auto tracking. If you move in the frame, the camera will pan to follow you, as long as AI tracking is enabled. This feature only works on the Link 2, as it utilizes a gimbal to pan and tilt the camera (again, the Link 2C is a stationary webcam). Also: How to turn your old Android phone into a security or pet camera Activating the AI for tracking is as easy as clicking the button in the software or holding up the palm of your hand. That gesture recognition is rock solid in my experience. On the other hand, the zoom and tilt AI gestures are inconsistent in my experience. To activate this feature, you have to hold up your hand in a "L" shape, then raise or lower your hand for the zoom or tilt. I've gotten it to zoom in successfully each time. Zoom out or tilt, not so much. Again, this is only available with the Link 2, as it has a gimbal. Background replacement and filters are also included in the controller software. The chroma key does a good job with the bokeh effect, creating a tastefully soft background blur of your existing scene. Notice how cleanly I'm separated from the background: And again, I hate what AI attempts to do with background replacements. I didn't care for the quality of the chroma key. Sure the backgrounds are nice, but notice how my "edges" are showing artifacts instead of a smooth transition into the background. Also: Is GoPro's cheaper $200 4K action camera worth it? Only if these features matter to you I'm wearing a black shirt with a light background to provide contrast and make it easy for the AI to key me away from the background. Again, this isn't a discredit to Insta360. I see this performance in pretty much every AI-enhanced chroma key. The Insta360 Link 2 and Link 2C are worthy buys for the business professional who is always in virtual meetings, or even the content creator who is always livestreaming. The half-inch sensor and high resolution produces great image quality, even though the image color temperature is a touch on the warm side. The controller software, AI tools, and privacy features are all bonuses.

Insta360 Launches Two New AI-Powered 4K Webcams

Insta360, known for its 360-degree cameras, unveiled the Link 2 and Link 2C, a pair of AI-powered 4K webcams designed for video conferencing and live streaming. This follows the company's dual 4K webcam, the Insta360 Connect, announced this summer. The Link 2 and 2C share many of the same features, including the same Type 1/2 image sensor, 4K/30p video recording, and AI-powered depth of field technology that Insta360 claims achieves a "near DSLR-like depth of field." The cameras promise good video quality even in poorly lit environments and use high dynamic range (HDR) technology to balance shadow and highlight areas. They also use AI to enhance image quality and reduce visible noise. AI also handles audio-based noise. Insta360 promises "best-in-class" audio via built-in mics, which work alongside machine learning algorithms to reduce unwanted noise. The webcams have three unique profiles for different environments: Voice Focus, Voice Suppression, and Music Balance. "Link 2 and Link 2C represent our ongoing commitment to making virtual connections more engaging and seamless. We've listened to user feedback and pushed the boundaries of what's possible in a webcam, combining premium 4K imaging, crystal-clear audio, and intuitive AI-powered features. Link 2 and Link 2C empower you to present your best self online, no matter where you are," says JK Liu, Founder of Insta360. AI also enters the fray when it comes to autofocus. The cameras include phase-detect autofocus systems and utilize AI Tracking and Auto Framing to keep the subject in the frame. A Group Tracking option keeps multiple people balanced inside the frame when giving group presentations. Users can also control the device using simple hand gestures. The two Link 2-series cameras differ in terms of stability. While core imaging functionality is identical between the two models, the Link 2 features a built-in two-axis gimbal for smooth, stabilized footage and more dynamic racking. The Link 2C ditches the gimbal and is, therefore, more compact. The Link 2 weighs 101.5 grams (3.6 ounces) without the included magnetic mount, while the 2C weighs 46.5 grams (1.6 ounces). Both cameras offer a wide variety of additional modes and features, including uncropped 4K vertical video recording, remote smartphone control, background replacement and switching, a DeskView mode for overhead presentations, AI-powered skin smoothing (which Insta360 says is a virtual makeup function), and a privacy mode.

I found the best webcam for work, and it's got features business professionals will love

AI tracking for presentations isn't perfect, but it's available As much as there's a push for remote work to move to hybrid, there's no doubt that virtual meetings will always be the norm. Business is global, so important meetings for business professionals will continue to be global. This means more Zoom, Google Meet, and Microsoft Teams. Also: The most versatile camera I've tested costs $499 and is not from Sony or Canon This also means high-quality webcams are a must-have in order to make a great visual impression in these virtual meetings. Insta360 is often considered to have one of the most flexible cameras for content creators. Now, however, the company has announced its Link 2 and Link 2C webcams for business professionals looking to change the world, one virtual meeting at a time. Webcam technology has progressed quickly. The Link 2 and Link 2C both demonstrate how far we've come -- the tech has not only gotten better but remains affordable for most. Let's look at these two webcams. While they have two different product names, they share a lot of the same tech specs. The Link 2 and Link 2C webcams offer a great resolution (like most cameras today) at up to 4K and 30 frames per second. This frame rate looks great during virtual meetings or talking head presentations. Having a half-inch sensor on both the Link 2 and Link 2C is a big deal. It means lighting in a typical office or desk space will be adequate for optimal video performance. Granted, if you're a professional creator, you probably have dedicated studio lighting. You'll be surprised at how great the video quality of these webcams looks. Also: I've been a professional live streamer for 10 years. These are my favorite studio lights In addition to the video and build quality, the Insta360 Link 2 and Link 2C comes with software to help assist in controlling the camera. The Link Controller app is pretty straightforward and easy to use, offering controls for exposure, HDR, motion tracking, virtual backgrounds, "professional" bokeh, and more. Most webcam providers offer a similar experience, but I find this software to be a bit easier to navigate. On both the Link 2 and 2C, you can easily turn off the camera via the hardware to ensure video isn't transmitting when you don't intend for it to. With the Link 2, just tilt the camera down. This will not only have the camera looking at the top edge of your monitor or mount, but it will also cut the transmission. With the Link 2C, just slide the hardware shutter over the lens. The 2C is a stationary webcam, unlike its Link 2 sibling, which is on a gimbal. Having a hardware shutter cover is thus especially practical. In addition to securing the camera's lens, consider the internal microphone. If you're using at Link 2C, you'll need to manually mute your microphone in your computer's virtual meeting software. If you're using the Link 2, the Link Controller app allows you to mute directly via a toggle button. Speaking of internal microphones, the microphones on the Link 2 and 2C are... okay. Yes, Insta360 has integrated AI software to mitigate background noise and enhance your voice when using the camera, but it's not particularly my favorite sound. No disrespect to Insta360, but I find that all AI-enhanced audio needs additional human follow-up. It's better than nothing, but it's not going to sound perfect. In my tests, the AI works best when a constant noise is happening. If you have a random dog barking or a neighbor hammering a nail into the wall, the AI won't consider that as "noise." These cameras also have an AI feature called auto tracking. If you move in the frame, the camera will pan to follow you, as long as AI tracking is enabled. This feature only works on the Link 2, as it utilizes a gimbal to pan and tilt the camera (again, the Link 2C is a stationary webcam). Activating the AI for tracking is as easy as clicking the button in the software or holding up the palm of your hand. That gesture recognition is rock solid in my experience. On the other hand, the zoom and tilt AI gestures are inconsistent in my experience. To activate this feature, you have to hold up your hand in a "L" shape, then raise or lower your hand for the zoom or tilt. I've gotten it to zoom in successfully each time. Zoom out or tilt, not so much. Again, this is only available with the Link 2, as it has a gimbal. Background replacement and filters are also included in the controller software. The chroma key does a good job with the bokeh effect, creating a tastefully soft background blur of your existing scene. Notice how cleanly I'm separated from the background: And again, I hate what AI attempts to do with background replacements. I didn't care for the quality of the chroma key. Sure the backgrounds are nice, but notice how my "edges" are showing artifacts instead of a smooth transition into the background. I'm wearing a black shirt with a light background to provide contrast and make it easy for the AI to key me away from the background. Again, this isn't a discredit to Insta360. I see this performance in pretty much every AI-enhanced chroma key. The Insta360 Link 2 and Link 2C are worthy buys for the business professional who is always in virtual meetings, or even the content creator who is always livestreaming. The half-inch sensor and high resolution produces great image quality, even though the image color temperature is a touch on the warm side. The controller software, AI tools, and privacy features are all bonuses.

Insta360's Webcams Now Come in Cheaper Models

The Insta360 Link webcam remains one of my favorites -- and an Editors' Choice even after two years. Now, the company has introduced two completely redesigned models to complement it, offering similar features at more affordable prices. Both models are essentially the same camera, with similar components and capabilities as the older version, but with a sleeker design and improved performance, thanks to upgraded firmware and software. The $200 Link 2, like the original, is a PTZ (pan/tilt/zoom) webcam with a gimbal for stabilization, allowing it to automatically track and follow your movements. Now, it has a little sibling: the $150 Link 2C, which is more of a traditional work-focused webcam. It has manual tilt on a standard limited mount, but it's more compact and better suited for laptops. It's the same camera as the Link 2, just stripped of the frills and features that won't work for a fixed device. That means both models have gesture controls and the same video quality as the older model. I like the redesign's look for both models, which makes them look less like security cameras and more like something for your desktop. Plus, they now attach to the mount magnetically. The 2C has a manual shutter, since it can't tilt down to hide the way the Link 2 can, and it uses digital auto framing to keep you centered. The Link 2 adds Pause-Track, which lets you define up to six areas where it won't follow you, and it restarts when you reenter the trackable zones. An updated Smart Whiteboard Mode automatically detects the board and corrects distortion, eliminating the need to mark it in advance. Most of the stated improvements come via AI, according to Insta360, including better image quality and improved audio through upgraded microphone noise cancellation. The latter adds three new modes: Voice Focus (the standard webcam setting), Voice Suppression (to reduce nearby voices and background noise) and Music Balance (to keep background music at a lower, more subtle volume). Via the virtual camera (which processes the image in software before streaming it out and is how all webcams handle things like background removal) you can now replace the background and blur it, plus the background ostensibly renders bokeh better. I'm not finished testing yet, so stay tuned to see how they stack up against the original.