Insta360 Flow Pro User Manual

Content

• Product Introduction
• First Use
• Basic Use
• Insta360 App
• Firmware Update

Product Introduction

Flow Pro Introduction

The Insta360 Flow Pro is a smartphone gimbal stabilizer. The device includes the following components:

1. Magnetic Phone Clamp: Secures the smartphone to the gimbal.
2. Power Output Port (Type-C): Used to charge other devices from the gimbal.
3. Battery Level/Gimbal Mode Indicator Lights: Displays battery status and current gimbal mode.
4. Shutter Button: Controls photo capture and video recording.
5. Zoom Wheel: Adjusts zoom or controls roll axis in FPV mode.
6. Power Button: Turns the gimbal on/off and performs other functions.
7. 1/4" Mounting Point: For attaching accessories like tripods.
8. Tilt Axis Motor: Controls the tilt movement of the gimbal.
9. Touch Panel: Interface for controlling gimbal and shooting modes.
10. Switch Button: Changes phone orientation, camera, or shooting modes.
11. Joystick: Controls pan and tilt axis movements.
12. Tracking Ring Light: Indicates tracking status.
13. Pan Axis Motor: Controls the pan movement of the gimbal.
14. Power Input Port (Type-C): For charging the gimbal.
15. Roll Axis Motor: Controls the roll movement of the gimbal.
16. NFC Pairing LED: Indicates NFC pairing status.
17. Built-in Cold Shoe: For attaching accessories like microphones.
18. Built-in Selfie Stick: Extends the reach of the gimbal.
19. Trigger Button: Recenter, enter modes, start/stop tracking.
20. Built-in Tripod: Provides a stable base for the gimbal.

The SmartWheel assembly includes the Touch Panel, Gimbal Mode Indicator Lights, Joystick, Power Button, Shutter Button, Switch Button, and Zoom Wheel.

First Use

Charging

To charge the Insta360 Flow Pro, connect the included Type-C Cable to the USB Port on the handle and to a charger. The battery level indicator lights will cycle from left to right during charging, reflecting the remaining power. A solid indicator light signifies that charging is complete.

Flow Pro Charging Time:

• 0-80%: 78 minutes
• 0-100%: 120 minutes

*Measured at 77°F (25℃) using a 10W charger.

Unfolding and Folding

Install Your Phone

1. Following the direction indicated by the icon on the right side of the Magnetic Phone Clamp, stretch the clamp around the middle of your phone.
2. Align and attach the magnetic notch on the back of the Magnetic Phone Clamp to the raised bump on the gimbal's magnetic surface.
3. Hold the transparent battery shell and pull the handle downwards in the direction indicated by the arrow to unfold it. The gimbal will automatically power on, and the indicator lights will turn on.

Notes:

• Ensure the direction of your phone's camera matches the direction marked on the Magnetic Phone Clamp.
• Position the Magnetic Phone Clamp in the middle of your phone so that both sides stretch equally and fit around the phone.
• Attach your phone to the Magnetic Phone Clamp first, then attach and unfold the Flow Pro.
• Each time the Flow Pro is powered on, it automatically detects if a phone is mounted within 30 seconds. If no phone is detected, it enters standby mode.

Built-In Selfie Stick and Tripod

The Flow Pro features a built-in selfie stick and tripod. The selfie stick has five sections and extends to a maximum length of 215mm, with an angle adjustment range of 0-90°.

Once fully extended and unfolded, the tripod can be used to temporarily place the Flow Pro on a windless, stable, and flat surface. Avoid placing it on sand.

Notes:

• When extending the tripod, pull out all legs together, not individually.
• When storing the tripod, fold it first, then slowly push it back in with your palm.
• If the selfie stick is extended for an extended period, it is recommended to attach an external tripod through the 1/4" screw hole at the bottom of the Flow Pro's handle for increased support and versatility.
• Use the silicone grip cover to enhance comfort and protect the handle.

Folding Up

1. Fold the handle upwards; the Flow Pro will automatically shut down.
2. Remove the Magnetic Phone Clamp and then detach it from your phone.

Find Your Serial Number

The serial number is a unique code used to quickly identify your gimbal. You can find it in the following ways:

1. Product Box: The serial number is located on the back of the original product box.
2. Transparent Battery Shell: The serial number can be viewed inside the transparent battery shell.

Activation

You must activate the Flow Pro in the Insta360 app before its first use.

Steps:

1. Download the Insta360 app. Alternatively, search "Insta360" in your app store or scan the QR code on the box.
2. Enable Wi-Fi and Bluetooth on your phone.
3. Open the Insta360 app. A "Discover New Devices" pop-up window should appear. Select your device (default name: "Flow Pro ******", where ****** represents the last six digits of the serial number, found on the product box or battery shell). Follow the on-screen instructions to connect and activate your gimbal.
4. The app will prompt you to update the firmware if a new version is available. Follow the on-screen prompts for the update. Do not power off the Flow Pro or exit the Insta360 app during the update.
5. After successful activation, download the analysis resources to begin shooting with the Insta360 app.

One-Tap Pairing Via NFC

The Flow Pro supports NFC pairing with NFC-enabled phones for quick connection and tracking with DockKit. This feature is currently supported on iOS only.

For iOS users, connect your iPhone via NFC:

1. Power on the Flow Pro.
2. Unlock your phone and turn on Bluetooth.
3. Touch your phone's NFC area to the gimbal, wait for the pop-up window, and tap Connect.
4. Attach your phone to the Flow Pro and wait for the gimbal head to nod, indicating a successful connection. Do not remove the phone during the pairing process to avoid failure.
5. Once connected, you can control your phone's native camera, use third-party apps, or connect to the Insta360 app.

• To use Apple DockKit native camera tracking, turn on your iPhone's native camera, switch to "Video" mode, point it at the subject, and tracking will activate automatically.
• When the Flow Pro is tracking, the tracking ring light will be green and flash slowly. To stop tracking, press the trigger button once (the light turns off). To resume tracking, press the trigger button once (the light turns on).

Notes:

1. Ensure your iOS software is updated to at least iOS 17 (iOS 17.4 or higher recommended) and that the NFC function is turned on.
2. Unlock your phone and exit any other apps.
3. After the first successful connection, the Flow Pro will automatically reconnect to the phone via Bluetooth when turned on and attached to the gimbal, without needing NFC pairing.

If you cannot connect via NFC, please check the following:

1. Ensure your phone's NFC area is close to the NFC mark on the Flow Pro. If there's no response, move the phone a few millimeters away, wait about 10 seconds, and try again.
2. Verify that your phone has NFC enabled.
3. Remove any metal objects near the Flow Pro's NFC area.
4. Ensure only one phone is in contact with the Flow Pro at a time.
5. Turn off any other NFC-enabled applications running on your phone.

Native Camera and Third-Party App Tracking

• iOS: After pairing your iPhone with Flow Pro via NFC, you can control or track using the native camera app or third-party iOS apps without connecting to the Insta360 app. You can also use Deep Track 3.0 when connected to the Insta360 app, and track in third-party apps via the Live Mode feature.
• Android: Native camera app tracking is not supported, but the Flow Pro can control the native camera. Deep Track 3.0 is available when connected to the Insta360 app, as is tracking in third-party apps via the Live Mode feature.

Notes:

1. Use Deep Track 3.0 in the Insta360 app for enhanced tracking accuracy and subject recovery in complex scenarios.
2. Some Joystick functions may be unavailable when tracking with the phone's native camera or third-party apps. Refer to the phone compatibility list on the official Insta360 website for full details.

• Native Camera and Third-Party Apps:
• 1. Apple DockKit Native Tracking (iOS): Flow Pro integrates with Apple DockKit to track using the phone's native camera without needing the Insta360 app. It also supports tracking in third-party apps like TikTok and Facetime for content creation and video calls. You can switch tracking between Apple devices, using your iPhone as a webcam for your Macbook or Apple TV to track people during video calls or online meetings.

Notes:

1. DockKit tracking requires an Apple device compatible with DockKit, specifically an iPhone 12 or later model, running iOS 17 or higher (iOS 17.4 or higher recommended).
2. Insta360 Flow Pro is designed for use with DockKit-compatible apps, such as the iPhone's camera app and FaceTime®. Refer to the official Insta360 website for tested compatible applications.
3. Insta360 App Tracking with Live Mode (iOS/Android): Android phones do not support tracking in the native camera app. Both iOS and Android devices support tracking in third-party apps like live streaming and video calling apps through Live Mode on the Insta360 app. Navigate to the shooting page after connecting Flow Pro to the Insta360 app.

• Native Camera (iOS/Android):
  • iOS: Record and track with the phone's native camera.
  • Android: Record with the phone's native camera, switch between front and rear lenses, switch shooting modes, and adjust zoom.

Note: Settings and supported functions vary by phone model and system. Refer to the official Insta360 website for the phone compatibility list.

Basic Use

Button Instructions

When tracking with the iPhone native camera and third-party iOS apps, some button operations may be temporarily unavailable. Full button functionality is accessible through the Insta360 app.

Power Button

Switch Button

Shutter Button

Joystick

Battery Level/Gimbal Mode Indicators

When powered on:

• Press once: Check current battery level.
• /: Shows current gimbal mode: AUTO = Auto, F = Follow, PF = Pan Follow, FPV = FPV.

LED Indicator Lights Status

LED Indicator status:

• ● LED on.
• ○ LED off.
• ○ LED blinking.

All four LEDs blink slowly when the Flow Pro is in standby mode.

All four LEDs blink quickly when an error has occurred. Common reasons include:

• The Flow Pro is physically prevented from moving or is experiencing a technical error. Remove any obstacles and press any button.
• The phone is not centered or secure in the phone clamp, potentially causing abnormal motor heating and triggering the Flow Pro's overheating protection. Recenter and secure the phone.

Touch Panel

There are two ways to switch gimbal and shooting modes on the Touch Panel, selectable via the "Custom" button in gimbal settings within the Insta360 app.

Zoom Wheel

Trigger Button

Combination Button: To reset Bluetooth, press and hold the Trigger and Shutter Buttons simultaneously for 3 seconds.

Interfaces

Built-In Cold Shoe

Connect to other accessories, such as a microphone.

Notes:

• Do not remove the cold shoe door when connecting accessories.
• Ensure the Anti-Dust Cover remains in place.

Gimbal Modes

When the Flow Pro is turned on, you can choose from five gimbal modes: Auto (default), Follow, Pan Follow, FPV, and Lock Mode.

• Auto Mode (AUTO): A beginner-friendly mode that automatically adjusts tilt and pan axis settings based on your movements (e.g., running vs. stationary), facilitating stable video shooting.
• Follow Mode (F): The tilt and pan axes follow the handle's movement, with more sensitive tracking than Auto Mode. It is suitable for vertical movements from a view to a subject and tilt and pan movements.
• Pan Follow Mode (PF): The pan axis follows the handle's movement, while the tilt and roll axes are locked. This mode is ideal for shooting horizontally or around a subject with a locked horizon.
• FPV Mode (FPV): The gimbal can rotate freely in any direction, following the handle's movements. This is suitable for a wider range of creative shots. Use the Zoom Wheel to control the roll axis and spin the phone.
• Lock Mode (L): Press and hold the Trigger Button to lock all three axes, excellent for follow shots and hyperlapses. Release the Trigger Button to exit Lock Mode. The phone screen remains locked and does not follow the gimbal handle's rotation. It is suitable for follow shots, long-distance movements, or shots requiring a subject to be centered for an extended period. In this mode, the three-axis motors are locked, and the mobile phone's position remains unchanged.

Switch to Active Plus Mode for fast-moving scenes. It offers a faster response speed in any of the four gimbal modes on the touch panel. Press the Trigger Button once, then immediately press and hold it to enable Active Plus. The indicator lights will blink in the current gimbal mode. Release the Trigger Button again to exit.

Gimbal Grips

The Flow Pro offers five grip positions:

• Quick Grip: Unfold the gimbal in one motion for quick, on-the-go shooting. Do not extend the tripod or selfie stick.
• Classic Grip: Provides a more comfortable grip with an improved shooting angle.
  • 1. Slightly pull the selfie stick out.
  • 2. Tilt the hinge area.
  • 3. Pull out the tripod to extend the handle. Do not pull out the legs.
• Underslung Grip: Offers a more comfortable grip for shooting close to the ground for low-angle shots.
  • 1. Pull out the tripod and selfie stick.
  • 2. Turn Flow Pro upside down 180°.
• Side Grip: Provides a more comfortable grip, suitable for sliding and low-angle shots.
  • 1. Pull out the tripod.
  • 2. Tilt Flow Pro 90° left or right.
• Low Grip: Offers a more comfortable grip, suitable for push-through and low-angle shots.
  • 1. Pull out the tripod and selfie stick.
  • 2. Adjust the selfie stick to a low-angle position.

Manual Rotation

1. You can manually adjust the direction of the roll axis by moving the gimbal. When the angle of the mobile phone clamp is less than 30°, the gimbal will rotate to the position where it is swung.
2. The gimbal can be rotated horizontally or vertically by turning it. When the angle of the mobile phone clamp to the gimbal exceeds 30°, the gimbal will automatically rotate to the next 90° position according to the current rotation direction.

Note: The gimbal cannot rotate in four directions; it can only rotate horizontally or vertically in a fixed direction. Forcing movement may cause the motor to stall and consume more power.

Indicator Lights

Insta360 App

Connect to the Insta360 app

1. Turn on Flow Pro.
2. Turn on your phone's Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.
3. Open the Insta360 app and tap the camera icon at the bottom of the page. Follow the on-screen instructions to activate your gimbal.
4. The first time you connect to the Insta360 app, you will need to authorize the connection and provide information, requiring an internet connection.
5. After successful activation, download the analysis resources to shoot with the Insta360 app.

Can't connect to the Insta360 app?

1. Ensure the Insta360 app is updated to the latest version. Restart Flow Pro and the app, then reconnect.
2. If connection issues persist, cancel the Bluetooth pairing, turn off your phone's Bluetooth, and try again.

If the connection fails, press the Trigger Button and the Shutter Button simultaneously for 3 seconds to reset Bluetooth. Successful reset is indicated by three beeps. Then, attempt to connect to the app again.

Shooting Interface

The shooting interface provides various controls and information:

1. Home: Return to the home page.
2. Shot Genie: Offers AI shooting tutorials and ideas tailored to the environment. Two methods to access Shot Genie templates:
   • Scene Recognition: Enable or disable in General Settings. AI analyzes the current scene and matches it to a shooting scenario.
   • Voice Control: Enabled by default. Tap the icon for shooting suggestions based on provided keywords. Enable or disable in General Settings.
3. Flash: Adjust the flash settings.
4. Filter: Select a photo or video filter.
5. Face Filter: Turn the Face Filter function on or off.
6. Gesture Control: Displays Gesture Control settings for photo, video, photo with tracking, or video with tracking. When enabled, face the camera with your full face visible and raise your palm (ensure it does not cover your face). Hold this position briefly to trigger the chosen function. Raise your palm again to stop shooting if using video with tracking.Note: Gesture Control works up to 13.1ft (4m) away. This feature consumes more power and may cause the gimbal to heat up.
7. Tracking Box: Automatically tracks selected targets within the frame. The default position is the screen center but can be adjusted manually using the Joystick while tracking.
8. Flow Pro Battery Level: Displays the current battery level of the Flow Pro.
9. Phone Battery Level: Displays the current battery level of the connected phone.
10. Resolution and Frame Rate: Set resolution and video frame rate.
11. Phone Camera Settings: Adjust settings like shutter speed, ISO, EV, and WB.
12. Flow Pro Settings: Access gimbal mode and related settings.
    • Gimbal Mode: Select from Auto, F, PF, and FPV.
    • Mode Change Method: Choose how to switch gimbal modes and shooting modes.
    • Follow Speed: Controls gimbal reaction speed (fast, medium, or slow).
    • Joystick Speed: Set joystick sensitivity (fast, medium, or slow).
    • Zoom Speed: Set zoom speed (fast, medium, or slow).
    • Tracking Sensitivity: Adjust framing of the target (Normal or Sensitive).
    • Horse Tracking: Turn on/off. Press the trigger button or draw a box around a horse to prioritize horse tracking.
    • Front Cam Auto Tracking: Tracks subjects using the front camera instead of the rear.
    • Always-On Tracking: Keeps tracking a subject (people only) until they reappear in the shot.
    • Reverse Joystick Horizontally: Reverses the pan axis movement direction when using the Joystick.
    • Reverse Joystick Vertically: Reverses the tilt axis movement direction when using the Joystick.
    • Flow Pro Sound and Vibration: Toggle sound and vibration on/off (Bluetooth reset tone cannot be turned off).
    • Tracking Ring Light: Turn on/off and adjust brightness (low, medium, or high).
    • Auto Calibration: If phone alignment seems off, auto-calibrate by following on-screen prompts. Do not touch the Flow Pro during calibration.
13. Adjust Horizontal Axis: Fixes alignment issues. Unfold the tripod, place the Flow Pro on a flat surface, attach the phone, and start adjustment. The axis can be tuned in 0.1° increments up to a maximum of 10°.
14. General Settings: Adjust Grid, Histogram, Scene Recognition, Voice Control, view tutorials, the Button Operation Guide, access product information, and more.
15. Shooting Parameters: Displays current exposure, WB, shutter speed, ISO, and EV settings.
16. Zoom: Shows current zoom. Long press the icon to display the zoom dial. Zoom can also be adjusted by pinching two fingers on the screen.
17. Switch Front and Rear Cameras: Switches between front and rear cameras. After switching to the front camera, Flow Pro automatically tracks the visible subject. This option can be disabled in settings.
18. Shooting Modes: Scroll to select a shooting mode:
    • Pano Photo: Take 3x3, 180°, 240°, or 360° panorama photos. Flow Pro automatically stitches multiple photos into one panorama.
    • Photo: Captures regular photos and photos with a countdown. Long press the Shutter Button for Burst Mode.
    • Video: Shoots normal videos.
    • Timelapse: Shoots stationary or motion timelapses. Choose from Fixed Angle, Left to Right, Right to Left, and Custom Track modes. Tap the icon to set interval duration and length.
    • TimeShift: Records hyperlapse (sped-up) videos while moving.
    • Slow Motion: Shoots slow-motion video at 120fps or 240fps.
    • Dolly Zoom: The app automatically zooms in or out of the background to keep the subject the same size, recreating the Hollywood effect.
    • Widescreen Mode: Automatically adjusts the phone to a horizontal position and records in a 2.35:1 widescreen ratio. Filters are enabled by default.
    • Live Mode: Utilizes Flow Pro's tracking capabilities in third-party apps for video streams (messaging, camera, video conferencing, live streaming). Follow on-screen instructions. Only people can be tracked in this mode.
    • Hoop Mode: Records basketball games, automatically recognizing baskets and saving highlights as clips. Currently supports half-court games.
19. Shutter Button: Take a photo or start/stop video recording.
20. Album: View previous photos and videos.

Firmware Update

Firmware updates are regularly available for the Flow Pro to ensure efficient operation. Update to the latest version for optimal results.

1. Connect the Flow Pro to the Insta360 app. The app will prompt you to update the firmware if a new version is available. Follow the on-screen prompts.
2. If the app does not prompt an update, navigate to Settings > "Firmware Version" in the Insta360 app to check for a new version.
3. Once the update is complete, the Flow Pro will automatically reconnect to the app. You can verify the firmware version by opening the Insta360 app, going to the shooting page, tapping General Settings, or navigating to Settings > "Firmware Version".

Contact Information

Arashi Vision Inc.

Address: 11th Floor, Building 2, Jinlitong Financial Center, Bao'an District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China

Web: www.insta360.com

Tel: 400-833-4360 / +1 800 6920 360

Email: service@insta360.com

Version: V1.0