GoPro Hero 7 battery ran out and it corrupted files

Troubleshooting Corrupted Video Files from a GoPro Hero 7 Due to Battery Interruption

Introduction

Capturing adrenaline-filled moments on a GoPro Hero 7 is a popular way for adventurers and content creators to document their experiences. However, unexpected events such as battery depletion can lead to file corruption and data loss, complicating post-production efforts. In this article, we will explore a real-world scenario involving a GoPro Hero 7 that experienced battery failure during a motorcycle ride, resulting in split and partially corrupted video files. We will also provide practical solutions to recover your footage and prevent similar issues in the future.

Scenario Overview

While recording a motorcycle journey, the GoPro Hero 7’s battery drained unexpectedly. The device had been recording continuously, and the file was automatically split upon reaching the 4GB size limit, resulting in two separate video files:

First File: Approximately 9 minutes and 38 seconds long, with a notable issue: the video playback freezes at around 5 minutes and 52 seconds. Prior to freezing, the video displays flashes and brief glitches, but the audio continues uninterrupted.
Second File: Approximately 6 minutes and 38 seconds long, with no video display—showing a frozen, static image identical to the paused frame at 5:52 from the first file—while the audio plays normally.

This combination indicates probable corruption or incomplete recording caused by the abrupt power loss.

Understanding the Issue

When a recording is interrupted unexpectedly—especially during file writing—the resulting files can become corrupted. Common symptoms include:

Video playback freezing or stuttering at specific points.
Visual artifacts, glitches, or frozen frames.
Continuation of audio despite video freeze, indicating partial file writing.
Files that are unreadable or fail to open in media players or editing software.

In this case, the freeze at 5:52 suggests the video stream was disrupted, while the continuous audio indicates that the audio data was written more reliably or earlier in the recording.

Recovery Strategies

While data corruption can be frustrating, there are several methods to attempt recovery of your footage: