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SOS

GoPro Action Camera

Severity: Moderate

Source: OnlyErrorCodes.com — Every error code. One place.

GoPro SOS Error — Recovery Mode Fix Guide

What Does This Error Mean?

SOS on a GoPro means the camera detected a serious error and is in recovery mode.
The camera is asking you to confirm a reset.
Press the shutter button to acknowledge SOS and the camera attempts recovery.
If SOS keeps coming back, hold the mode button for 10 seconds to force a hard reset.
If SOS persists after hard reset, the camera needs GoPro support — likely warranty replacement.

Affected Models

  • GoPro HERO 10/11/12 Black
  • GoPro HERO 9
  • GoPro HERO 8 Black
  • GoPro MAX
  • GoPro HERO 7

Common Causes

  • Firmware crash during use
  • SD card corruption affecting boot
  • Battery removed while writing files
  • Internal storage corruption
  • Hardware fault on the main board

How to Fix It

  1. Press the shutter button once.

    When SOS appears, the camera is asking 'do you want me to recover?'
    Press the shutter button (top of camera) once.
    The camera attempts to fix the file system.
    This takes 30-60 seconds — wait for it.
    If recovery succeeds, the camera resumes normal operation.

  2. Remove and reinsert the SD card.

    If SOS comes back after recovery attempt, power off (hold mode button until off).
    Remove the SD card.
    Power on without the card.
    If SOS doesn't appear without the card, the SD card is corrupted.
    Try a different known-good card.

  3. Hard reset the camera.

    Hold the mode button (side button) for 10+ seconds.
    The camera fully powers off including any latched states.
    Wait 30 seconds.
    Power on with the mode button.
    This clears most firmware-level SOS events.

  4. Update firmware via the GoPro app.

    Connect to the GoPro app on your phone.
    Check for firmware updates.
    Apply any available updates — GoPro releases firmware updates that fix SOS-prone bugs.
    Newer firmware versions have noticeably fewer SOS reports.

  5. Contact GoPro support if SOS persists.

    Recurring SOS that survives hard reset, fresh SD card, and updated firmware is hardware.
    Open a support ticket at GoPro.com with your camera serial number.
    If under warranty (1 year), replacement is typical.
    Out of warranty, check whether GoPro Care subscription covers it (it often does).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fix SOS by reformatting?

Sometimes — if SOS is caused by SD card file system corruption, formatting the card in the camera fixes it.
Menu → Preferences → Reset → Format SD Card.
This erases all media — backup first if possible.
If SOS returns after format, the issue isn't the card.

Why does SOS happen during recording?

Most often: SD card can't keep up with the data rate.
Newer GoPros (HERO 10/11/12) need V30 SD cards minimum, with V60 or V90 recommended for highest bitrates.
If you've been using a slow card and SOS appears mid-recording, that's the cause.
Upgrade to a faster card.