A U.S. Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) at the International Trade Commission (ITC) has found that Insta360’s cameras infringe on GoPro’s patent for the iconic HERO design and also allegedly infringe on GoPro’s HyperSmooth video stabilization technology.
The ITC’s findings indicate design patent infringement, with the judge siding with GoPro, stating Insta360 copied the HERO camera’s recognizable shape and design elements. Additionally, multiple GoPro patent claims concerning its flagship HyperSmooth stabilization technology were “validated,” though infringement has not yet been definitively declared.
Insta360 has responded, clarifying in a press release that five utility patents—covering stabilization, horizon leveling, distortion, and aspect ratio conversion—were found invalid, not infringed, or both. Insta360 CEO JK Liu stated, “The majority of those claims were either found not to be infringed or ruled invalid. That speaks volumes.” Insta360 also asserts they have already made design tweaks to address the one upheld design patent, and for now, Insta360 products remain fully available in U.S. stores.
The final ruling from the ITC is due on November 10, 2025. If Insta360 loses, they could appeal the case to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit, and potentially further. Meanwhile, GoPro can seek import bans under Section 337.
Currently, Insta360 products are still available in the U.S., but if the ruling stands, the Ace Pro lineup—and possibly stabilization tech in other models—could face import bans.
While GoPro may be claiming victory, Insta360 maintains its position as an innovator, viewing GoPro’s actions as reliance on “litigation as a business strategy” rather than engineering advancements.
