Apple digicam patent makes GoPro nervous

APPLE has patented a layout for a virtual video camera that could doubtlessly compete with the rugged portable cameras made by means of GoPro.

The news sent GoPro’s stock tumbling.

GoPro stocks dropped more than 12 in step with cent on Tuesday after reports of the patent surfaced on tech blogs and financial wires.

Apple has now not announced any plans for the patent, which covers a layout for a faraway managed, digital digicam that may be connected to a helmet, surfboard or scuba masks.

but as first suggested by way of the weblog Patently Apple, the organization’s utility to the us Patent and Trademark office says Apple’s layout improves on components of GoPro’s camera.

Apple says GoPro’s camera “can reason excessive wind resistance and presents a high profile this is extra prone to harm.”

Representatives for Apple and GoPro did no longer right now reply to requests for comment. Patent workplace information display Apple first carried out some time ago for the patent, which turned into granted on Tuesday.

however one tech analyst recommended towards reading too much into the filing. “Apple develops and patents lots and plenty of era all the time. only a fraction of it ever sees the mild of day in commercial products,” stated Jan Dawson of Jackdaw studies, who tracks patron tech merchandise.

Apple had developed state-of-the-art camera era for its iPhones and iPads, said Dawson, who doubted the agency might want to sell a stand-by myself camera until it may be tied in with its broader own family of services and products.

nonetheless, the information seemed to make some GoPro investors frightened.

“whenever Apple enters a marketplace, it could be horrific news for present gamers,” Dawson stated.

move seasoned’s shares ended down $US6.ninety one to $US49.87.

Apple shares won US97c, or slightly less than 1 according to cent, closing at $US110.22.