Firmware is the operating system that runs your camera. You can’t access it directly, but it controls everything from image quality to battery management. And, in general, you want to be running the latest version.
There are two ways to update the firmware on a HERO13, HERO12, HERO11, or HERO10 Black: with the Quik app, or manually with a microSD card and a computer. The process is the same on all four. And on a brand-new HERO12 or HERO13, it isn’t optional: GoPro’s manuals say you have to update the camera before you can use it.
The same two methods work on other GoPros too. GoPro’s manuals for the HERO8 Black, HERO9 Black, HERO11 Black Mini, MAX, and MAX2 describe the same routes: the Quik app, or a manual update from gopro.com/update.
There are three main reasons to update your firmware:
- When you unbox a new camera. GoPro manufactures cameras months before they hit the shelves. That means the software inside your brand-new HERO13 Black is likely already months old. You almost always need a Day 1 update to fix bugs discovered after manufacturing started. On the HERO12, HERO13, and MAX2, it isn’t optional: GoPro’s manuals say you must update the camera before you can use it.
- To unlock new Lens Mods (HERO13/12 Specific). The newer cameras rely on firmware to detect the new HB-Series (HERO13) or Max Lens Mods (HERO12). If your camera doesn’t recognize a new lens, it’s usually because your firmware is outdated. The HERO13’s Anamorphic Lens Mod, for example, wasn’t recognized at all until firmware v2.00 in March 2025.
- To fix bugs and improve stability. Updates often fix random shutdowns, improve battery life, or patch connection issues with the Quik app.
Two ways to update your GoPro
There are two primary ways to update a modern GoPro (HERO10 through HERO13).
- The “Easy” Way: Using the GoPro Quik mobile app.
- The “Reliable” Way: Manual update via the SD card.
The Quik App method is the most convenient and what 90% of people should use.
The Manual Update is better if the app keeps failing (a common issue) or if you need to install GoPro Labs firmware to unlock advanced features.
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Warning! Regardless of which method you use, ensure your battery is at least 20% charged. If the battery dies in the middle of an update, it can “brick” the camera. For the same reason, don’t take the battery or SD card out while it’s updating — GoPro warns that can permanently damage the camera.
Method 1: Update via GoPro Quik app (recommended)
With this method, the app handles the downloading and transferring for you.
- Connect the Camera: Open the GoPro Quik app and connect to your camera. (If you haven’t paired it yet, follow this guide).
- Check for Updates: Once connected, Quik automatically checks the firmware version. If a newer version is available, a blue bar will appear at the top of the screen saying “Update Available.”
- Install: Tap Update. Follow the on-screen prompts. The camera will transfer the files (this may take a minute) and then power cycle.
- Do Not Touch: The camera will reboot several times and likely beep. Do not press any buttons until the front screen returns to the normal live preview.
Method 2: Manual update (SD card)
This method is foolproof. It works even if your phone won’t connect to the camera. It is also the required method if you want to install GoPro Labs firmware.
What you need: A computer (Mac or PC), a microSD card reader, and your camera.
- Get Your Serial Number: You will need the camera’s serial number to download the update from GoPro.com. It is located inside the battery compartment or in the camera menu under
Preferences > About > Camera Info. - Download the Firmware: Go to the update page for your specific camera:
- Unzip the File: You will download a file named
UPDATE.zip. You MUST unzip this file. Inside, you will find a folder named UPDATE. - Transfer to SD Card: Insert your microSD card into your computer. Drag the entire UPDATE folder to the root level of the card (not inside the DCIM or MISC folders).
- Insert and Power On: Eject the card and put it in your powered-off camera. Turn the camera on.
- Wait: The camera will detect the update automatically. It will beep and restart multiple times. When you see the checkmark on the front screen, you are done.
Common questions (FAQ)
How do I check my current firmware version?
Swipe down on the rear screen to access the Dashboard, then swipe left to reach Preferences.
Go to About > Camera Info. The firmware version is listed at the bottom.
Can I roll back to older firmware?
Not officially. GoPro doesn’t support downgrading, and the Quik app only ever installs the latest version. Some owners have gone back by loading an older UPDATE.zip onto the SD card with the Manual Method, but that’s an unofficial workaround, and you’d be doing it at your own risk.
What is GoPro Labs firmware?
GoPro Labs is an official “beta” program that unlocks advanced features not found in the standard menu, such as QR-code controls, motion-detection triggers, and larger 12GB chapter files. It’s available for the HERO13, 12, 11, and 10, and for several older models too, including the HERO11 Black Mini, HERO9, HERO8, and MAX. You install it using the Manual Method described above. You can learn more about GoPro Labs here.
