GoPro buys Australian smart helmet brand Forcite

Action camera giant GoPro has announced it will acquire Forcite Helmet Systems and will produce its own line of GoPro-branded smart motorcycle helmets.  

Forcite is a Sydney-based company founded by Alfred Boyadgis and Julian Chow, who set out to create a helmet that could help riders foresee hazards and dangers.

The current generation Forcite MK1S features a heads-up display, Bluetooth connectivity, a HD camera, audio, and an in-built microphone.

GoPro was founded in 2002 by surfer Nick Woodman. The California native was inspired by a surf trip to Australia and came up with the idea to create a camera that could capture high-quality close-up action photos and videos. Today it is one of the biggest action camera brands in the world.

According to a press release, GoPro intends to “accelerate Forcite’s vision to provide a safer, more dynamic motorcycling experience” through tech-enabled motorcycle helmets.

“The greater helmet market represents a meaningful TAM (total addressable market) expanding opportunity for GoPro,” said Woodman, GoPro CEO. “We’re excited for the Forcite team to join us so we can work towards enhancing the performance and safety of various types of helmets, starting with motorcycling.”

Woodman also states that GoPro plans to build its own line of branded helmets, which will utilise Forcite’s technology. In addition, GoPro will partner with other leading helmet brands to help introduce the technology to their own products.

The action camera brand will also look to tap into other helmet categories. This could include cycling, snow sports, motor racing, and skateboarding.  

It is unclear if GoPro will continue to produce products under the Forcite brand. The acquisition is expected to be finalised in the first quarter of 2024.