Insta360 launches X5, a next-gen 360° camera, at NYC pop-up event

April 22, 2025 Tabish Faraz

Insta360, the global leader in 360° camera sales, introduced its latest flagship product, the Insta360 X5, today. The camera, priced at US$549.99, is available for purchase starting today through the Insta360 Official Store, Amazon and select retailers. The X5 was unveiled at a pop-up event held at Grand Central Terminal’s Vanderbilt Hall in New York City, open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., where attendees can buy the camera on-site.

The launch event features hands-on demonstrations, appearances by creators Jesse Wellens and Jen Smith, and a 3.6-meter X5 installation for photo opportunities. Guests can also obtain exclusive merchandise and meet special guests throughout the day.

The X5 introduces advanced features, including 8K 30fps 360° video recording with supersampling from 11K to 8K for enhanced clarity. Its 1/1.28-inch sensors, 144% larger than those in the X4, capture more light, while the Triple AI Chip system, comprising one 5nm AI Chip and two Pro Imaging Chips, provides 140% more computing power to reduce noise and produce clear images. PureVideo mode leverages AI to enhance low-light video by reducing noise and optimizing dynamic range, delivering vivid results even in darker settings. The Active HDR mode now supports 5.7K 60fps for sharper, smoother shots in high-contrast scenes.

Designed for durability, the X5 features lenses made from high-strength, scratch-resistant glass and a replaceable lens system, allowing users to swap damaged lenses using a Replacement Lens Kit. The camera is IP68 waterproof up to 49 feet (15 meters) without a dive housing and includes a magnetic mounting system for quick accessory changes. A 2400mAh battery supports up to 185 minutes of 5.7K recording in Endurance Mode and fast-charges from 0 to 80% in 20 minutes. Additional features include 360° Horizon Lock, an improved audio algorithm, a multi-layer steel mesh Wind Guard, FlowState Stabilization and multiple recording triggers such as Voice Control 2.0, Twist to Shoot, wireless remote pairing and Gesture Control.

The X5 simplifies 360° content creation with InstaFrame Mode, which simultaneously records an auto-framed, shareable flat video and a full 360° video. The flat video offers a fixed view or a selfie view that keeps the user in frame, while the 360° video allows for later reframing. The Insta360 app, revamped for the X5 launch, includes a new user interface, a one-tap Dewarp button to remove fisheye distortion, a one-tap export option, Quick Edit, AI Edit and over 40 AI templates in Shot Lab. Free desktop editing software Insta360 Studio is also available. The X5 integrates with Insta360+, a cloud service offering cloud-based editing and export, instant 360° footage sharing and, of course, automatic file backup.

Insta360 Founder JK Liu stated in a press release, “X5 redefines 360° cameras by solving creators’ real challenges. From replaceable lenses to AI-powered low-light shooting, we’ve built our dream camera — rugged enough for adventure, capable enough to produce high quality footage, and intelligent enough to capture epic moments effortlessly.”

Insta360’s product lineup includes the X Series, GO Series, action cameras, gimbals, webcams and professional photography solutions, supported by AI-powered software.

Watch Insta360 X5’s introductory video below: