Typical source map

VIDEOGoPro
LIVE LAP TIMINGRaceChrono phone + selected GNSS
IMPORTED CAMERA GPS/IMUGoPro file after session
VEHICLE DATAOptional supported OBD-II source

A GoPro is not a live GPS receiver

RaceChrono’s official FAQ says GoPro cannot connect as a Bluetooth GPS receiver for live RaceChrono recording. GPS and sensor data embedded in completed GoPro files can instead be extracted through the import feature.

Practical consequence

For live lap timing, RaceChrono still needs phone GNSS or a supported external receiver. GoPro metadata can improve or supplement the session after the files are imported.

Current workflow

  1. Configure the GoPro in RaceChrono Pro where remote control is supported.
  2. Select the live GNSS and optional OBD-II devices for the RaceChrono session.
  3. Start the session and confirm both app data and camera recording.
  4. After the session, import GoPro files directly from the camera or copy them to the phone/tablet.
  5. Let RaceChrono attempt automatic linking from embedded GPS; adjust synchronisation manually if required.
  6. Check chapter-file order before exporting an overlaid video.

RaceChrono’s June 2026 change log documents HERO13 remote control, GoPro sensor import from LRV files, and automatic linking for new files containing GPS data. Platform and supported-camera details can change, so verify against the current app version.

Synchronisation behaviour

RaceChrono says automatic linking can fail if camera GPS was disabled, satellite lock was poor or timestamps fall outside the session range. For GoPro chapter files, synchronising the first file can allow subsequent chapters to link in sequence.

Limitations

  • Many video features require RaceChrono Pro rather than the free edition.
  • Remote-control compatibility is model, platform and app-version dependent.
  • HERO12 has no embedded GPS, so automatic GPS-based video sync cannot rely on camera position.
  • High-resolution files consume substantial phone storage and transfer time.
  • Uninstalling the app can delete data in app-specific folders; RaceChrono recommends backups.

Sources