The Insta360 Link was announced in 2022 with a 2-axis gimbal that allowed the webcam to track you as you moved around the room. Now the company has released a sequel and it has two versions – with and without a gimbal. The Insta360 Link 2 is a direct sequel to the original, while the Link 2C drops the gimbal for a more compact and lighter form factor.
A major selling point of this generation
is the AI-powered noise reduction, which tunes out things like nearby
conversation, the sound of keyboards clacking and traffic noise. Both models
support several profiles, including Voice Focus, Voice Suppression and Music
Balance. The Link 2 and 2C feature a 1/2” sensor with improved low-light
capabilities and HDR, which helps preserve more detail in the shadows. The lens
has an f/1.8 aperture and features Phase Detection Auto Focus (PDAF). The
cameras can create a DSLR-like bokeh effect to blur out the background. They
also support the usual background replacement feature.
The sensor delivers 4K video at up to
30fps. You can use it in horizontal or vertical orientation (with the 4K
Portrait Mode). The Smart Whiteboard Mode is great if you use whiteboards
during your presentation as it will ensure that the board remains in frame and
in focus. There is also a DeskView Mode for overhead presentation. The PDAF
system can focus at just 10cm/4in if you need to show a product up close.
The lens has a 79.5° diagonal field of
view (26mm in 35mm equivalent) and the cameras use AI-based tracking to keep
you in the frame. There is a new Group Tracking mode for presentations
involving multiple people. Insta360 also added Pause-Track Areas, so you can go
out of frame in certain locations or keep certain areas hidden. AI also comes
in handy for Gesture Control – you can get the camera to start/stop AI
Tracking, to zoom in and out or to enable Smart Whiteboard Mode. Alternatively,
you can control the cameras with your smartphone.
The Insta360 Link 2 has a 2-axis gimbal,
which creates smooth, stabilized footage. And it is much better at tracking you
around the room, of course. It also has a Privacy Mode, which points the camera
down and mutes the mic. Both cameras now have a magnetic mount, allowing you to
snap them on metal surfaces. There is a 1/4” tripod screw for more traditional
mounting. The cameras are compatible with Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Twitch and
other platforms.
The Insta360 Link 2 and Link 2C are available globally now. You will find them on the Insta360 store, Amazon and select retailers.
