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If you have a GoPro Hero 5 camera and an Android device, you might want to connect them for the purposes of transferring photos and videos. This is a useful feature when your camera has dozens of photos, but you have no computer near and you need to handle them using your Android. In this article, we will provide detailed instructions on how to connect Gopro Hero 5 to Android, using different methods and discuss the fix if you are facing any issues.
Video Tutorial:
What’s Needed
Before we begin, make sure that you have fulfilled the following requirements:
- A GoPro Hero 5 camera
- An Android device
- GoPro App (If not installed, download from Google Play Store)
- Micro-USB Cable or USB Type-C Cable
- A reliable internet connection
What Requires Your Focus?
For successful connectivity, you should focus on the following factors:
- Ensure you have the latest version of the GoPro app installed on your Android device and your camera has the latest firmware.
- Check that your camera is turned off when you begin, and ensure it’s fully charged for uninterrupted connection.
- If you are transferring large files, ensure your device has enough storage.
Different Methods to Connect Gopro Hero 5 to Android
Here are some popular methods to connect your GoPro Hero 5 camera to your Android device. Follow the guide:
Method 1: Via Wi-Fi
If you want to connect your GoPro Hero 5 camera to your Android device through Wi-Fi, you can follow these simple steps:
- Turn on your camera and slide down the screen.
- Press “Connect”; you will see instructions and directions given on the camera screen.
- Go to the settings of the Android device and click on "Wi-Fi" and switch it on if it’s turned off.
- Select the Wi-Fi network which matches the name and password shown on your camera.
- Launch the GoPro App on your Android device.
- Your Android device will now synchronize with your camera via Wi-Fi.
Pros:
- No need for cable or internet to connect.
- Wireless connectivity can travel long distances.
- Fast data transfer speeds.
Cons:
- Drains camera battery fast
- May face disconnection or slow speeds issues due to obstacles like walls.
Method 2: Via GoPro Quik Key
This advanced connectivity method introduces the GoPro Quik Key for Android. It is a device that can be connected directly to your phone’s USB port; it connects to your camera’s storage natively, giving you access to all your GoPro media with ease. To connect the GoPro Hero 5 to Android via GoPro Quik Key:
- Switch off your camera and remove the micro-SIM card, replace it with a Micro-SD card.
- Insert the micro-SD into the GoPro Quik Key adapter.
- Insert the GoPro Quik Key adapter into your Android device’s USB port.
- Your device will recognize the GoPro Quik Key, and the Quik App will launch automatically.
- You can choose how to edit your recorded footage and enjoy reshaping your files.
Pros:
- Has more space to save your data and additional features like slow motion, zoom and crop and animations.
- No need for extra Wi-Fi or Bluetooth to connect.
- Fast data transfer rates.
Cons:
- Spending extra money on the adapter.
- It is digital, so utmost care should be taken to protect it.
- Small Micro–SD Cards may need an adapter before being inserted into the Quik key.
Method 3: Via USB Cable
If you don’t want to use Wi-Fi or GoPro Quik Key, you can connect your GoPro Hero 5 to your Android device via USB cable.
- Connect the micro-USB cable to your Android device’s USB port.
- Insert the other edge into the primary USB port of your camera.
- Turn on the camera.
- Select “Turn on USB” mode on the camera.
- On your Android, Open the GoPro App and connect with your camera.
Pros:
- It is a high-performance and stable connection.
- Uninterrupted and stable data transfer rates.
- Faster file sharing speeds.
Cons:
- Tethered to a cable.
- No internet connectivity.
- Requires cable, making it less portable.
Method 4: Via Bluetooth
If your device doesn’t have a USB port, you can use Bluetooth functionality. However, Bluetooth usually has a lower connection quality than the previously listed methods, so it may take longer to connect.
- On your Android device, go to Settings and find the Bluetooth option.
- In the device menu, look for GoPro and connect it.
- Turn on your camera and make sure Wi-Fi is off.
- Press the Wi-Fi button on your camera. Now, hold it down until it starts flashing blue.
- Your GoPro camera will now be visible on your Android, and you can now check out videos.
Pros:
- It is a wireless method.
- Does not need any internet or cables to connect.
- Does not require third-party devices, just your camera and device.
Cons:
- Slow data transfer rates.
- Needs to pair your GoPro to your Android device every time you need to access your media.
- Bluetooth may interfere with other devices, causing disconnection.
Why Can’t I Connect my Gopro Hero 5 to Android?
Some of the common reasons why you are unable to connect are:
- The app might not be up to date
- The Wi-Fi connection might be weak
- The USB Cable might be faulty or wrong
Fix:
- Make sure that both your camera and Android device have the latest updates installed.
- Ensure that you have a strong Wi-Fi connection, and your devices are nearby.
- Ensure that you use a GoPro-branded USB cable.
Implications and Recommendations
Here are some recommendations as to how you can make the best use of connecting your GoPro Hero 5 to your Android device:
- Update App and GoPro Firmware Regularly
- Use a Fast, Reliable Internet Connection
- Use GoPro genuine Accessories.
5 FAQ’s About Connecting Gopro Hero 5 to Android
Q1: How do I connect my GoPro Hero 5 to my phone’s Wi-Fi?
A: Turn on your camera, "Connect," and locate the camera name in the phone settings directory.
Q2: Why is my Wi-Fi connection weak?
A: Poor Wi-Fi signals can occur due to distance, blockages, low battery, and outdated or malfunctioning software versions.
Q3: Can I connect my GoPro to my Android device without an internet connection?
A: Yes, but a stable Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connection is needed.
Q4: Can I connect my GoPro Hero 5 to an iPhone?
A: Yes, You can connect through the GoPro App by following the same steps outlined above.
Q5: How can I pair my GoPro with my Bluetooth speaker?
A: Ensure that the speaker name is visible on the device while also keeping the GoPro Bluetooth menu open.
Final Words
Connecting your GoPro Hero 5 camera to your Android device is a useful and uncomplicated process if you follow any of the above methods. Although GoPro devices include internal storage, it’s critical, at times, to transfer raw footage via Wi-Fi, GoPro Quik Key, USB, or Bluetooth.