MISSION 1, MISSION 1 PRO, and MISSION 1 ILS (interchangeable lens system) are GoPro’s next generation of cameras boasting the companies first 50MP 1” sensor and new GP3 processor. The Mission 1 series is not just another action camera. It’s a cinema-quality camera that anyone can use. With this new leap in performance and focus on compactness, cinema-quality, and accessibility, we explored different materials & finishes and design details to evolve and differentiate this next generation of professional-grade cameras while maintaining our brand heritage.
Scope of work included: architecture exploration, CMF exploration, design language evolution, accessories and ecosystem development, new manufacturing process development, review/approve DFMs and golden samples, and sustaining manufacturing support. Launched Spring of 2026.
The team created a new splatter texture for the new MISSION 1 SERIES. It is the first for GoPro. We wanted to give this new line of cameras a premium feel that is fitting for our next generation of professional, cinema-grade cameras. We explored both in-tool and painted on textures. Molded in textures offered repeatability but looked and felt flat. It also lacked the randomness and the one of a kind appearance. Painted on texture resulted in a more 3 dimensional look as surface tension created rounded edges and slightly domed surfaces in the texture. We also loved that with painted texture, each camera is truly one of a kind. Working with our suppliers, we dialed in painting and nozzle parameters that allowed us to control the range of splatter size, density, and gloss levels. In the end, we were able to develop a process that not only achieved our desired splatter effect but can also be reliably manufactured and passes our stringent reliabilty and chemical tests.
METAL INSERT TO STRENGTHEN DOOR HINGE
2ND SHOT TPE TO RESOLVE INCONSISTENT WALL THICKNESS / SINK ISSUES
There were a few challenges during DFM, one was the need to strengthen the door hinge pin. While the door itself is not heavy and is designed to come off, the problem is future proofing the camera so new accessories can mount to the door and battery bay via the hinge pin. The pin and the housing around it needs to be strong enough to endure the shock & vibration the camera and accessories will see during the harshest use cases. Working with the engineering team, I explored metal inserts that will act as a skeletal frame. Another issue we came across was inconsistent wall thickness leading to sink issues during molding. One solution we came up with is coring out the 1st shot PC and filling it with a 2nd shot rubber. Working with our suppliers, we were able to minimize any flash from the two materials and any part lines were masked by the painted splatter texture.
I also collaborated with PDM and engineering teams on creating an ecosystem of accessories for this new line of cameras. A few initial accessories include a removable lens hood (GoPro’s first) to block out unwanted stray lights, a fast charging dual battery charger capable of charing to 80% in ~20mins (another GoPro’s first), a set of ND filters, and an underwater/protective housing for the most extreme use cases.
