Summer's here and the camera rumors have never been hotter! After things went a bit cold, thanks to the tariff turmoil, things have shifted back into high gear across the industry.
Some of the most exciting camera rumors have come to fruition recently, particularly when it comes to Fujifilm – first with the super-unconventional Fujifilm X Half and then what looks like the product of the year, the Fujifilm X-E5.
But we've also seen some of the most long-running camera rumors turn out to be true, such as the Sony FX2 and the long-awaited reveal of the Ricoh GR IV. Though it has to be said, there seems to be more fake news out there than ever – so you can't believe everything you read!
As always, while smoke usually leads to fire, it pays to keep a pinch of salt in your pocket – and bear in mind that the tariffs situation is still causing mayhem with some planned releases, so dates are a moving target right now…
Canon rumors 2024
Canon is always the subject of more camera rumors than any other manufacturer, in large part because it has been the most prolific photographic patenter for 41 consecutive years. And these patents are often the first clues we get as to what is coming in the next wave of cameras.
We've seen Canon rumors turning into actual products like a chain of dominos, from last year's Canon EOS R1 and EOS R5 Mark II to the long-reported Canon EOS C400 and EOS C80, and this year with the Canon PowerShot V1 and EOS R50 V.
So, with two new pro cameras, two new cinema cameras, a new compact camera and a new content creation camera, what can we expect from Canon in 2025?
Canon EOS R6 Mark III
This camera is starting to feel like a bit of a unicorn. First it was rumored to release in late 2024, then spring 2025, and now I'm hearing that we're looking at summer or later for the Canon EOS R6 Mark III – but again, this could all be thanks to geopolitics.
Whatever the case, there has been precious little info leaked about it. Though I've consistently heard that it will inherit the 24MP stacked sensor from the EOS R3 and the 5.69 million-dot viewfinder from the EOS R5, as all that trickle-down tech makes its way to Canon's enthusiast line.
On that note, it's supposedly going to receive the split CFexpress B / SD card slots of those cameras as well. And I've even heard from someone that it will be getting both C-Log2 and C-Log3, which I find hard to believe.
Although since Canon brought Log shooting to its vlogging cameras like the Canon EOS R50 V and PowerShot V1, it's certainly loosening up when it comes to Cinema EOS features. And it it really does back 6K RAW 60p video, this could be a serious hybrid camera powerhouse.
Canon EOS R7 Mark II
I've heard a lot of rumors about the Canon EOS R7 Mark II, but they all have one thing in common: they paint it as a seriously powerful camera.
Most recently there has been talk that the R7 Mark II will ditch the mechanical shutter and be a purely electronic shutter system. With this being a speed-focused camera, that would make sense – especially with the rumors that it will boast a stacked sensor (perhaps even Canon's triple-layer stacked sensor).
Along similar lines, there have been rumblings that this camera will be a "baby R5", possessing a 40MP sensor capable of 8K video. Also aping the R5, it has been suggested that the R7 Mark II will increase in size – so much so, that it will be compatible with the cooling grip of the R5 Mark II.
Most of these rumors are independent of one another, but they're certainly complementary when taken together. And if they do indeed all combine like Voltron, the R7 Mark II could be an incredibly special camera!
Another Canon EOS RV camera (R7 V?)
Following the launch of the Canon EOS R50 V – a sister version of the original EOS R50, but geared towards video – it's being whispered that Canon is working on further models in the "RV" line, including another model that's coming this year.
It has long been rumored that Canon would be shaking up its APS-C line of cameras, with the expectation that there would be a new video segment (as you can see below, in the rumor about the Canon EOS RC). I've also heard rumors forever that the successor to the EOS R7 would be very disruptive.
So, if Canon wants a new RV body… and it already has an entry-level model in the R50 V… then developing a sister RV model to the flagship R7 would seem like a logical step. Could we be getting an Canon EOS R7 V later this year?
Canon PowerShot V3
With the PowerShot V1 (above) having launched in Asia, there are already rumblings about the next member of the V-series family.
Where the V1 is clearly Canon's vlogging and videography-oriented compact camera, it sounds like the Canon PowerShot V3 will be the model aimed at photographers.
From what I hear, the camera will have the same 1.4-inch sensor as the V1, but will ditch the 16-50mm content creator zoom range in favor of a 20x zoom range that might top out at around 500mm – perfect for stills shooters.
If it retains the V1's 30fps burst shooting, I think this could be a serious seller in 2025 and beyond.
Canon RE-1
After months upon months of whispers, I've finally heard something a bit more concrete about Canon's much-rumored retro EOS R camera, which I've been referring to as the Canon RE-1 – based on the fact that everything points to it being a mirrorless update of the iconic Canon AE-1 film camera.
In fact, the latest rumblings are that we might see it announced this year ahead of a launch in 2026 – which would mark the 50th anniversary of the AE-1.
It seems that Canon is taking the same tack as the Big N did with the Nikon Zf; rather than the RE-1 being a high-spec technological marvel, Canon seems to be basing it off a mid-range camera like the Canon EOS R6 Mark II, with a 24MP sensor and a focus on photographic rather than video features.
Obviously Canon is playing a bit of catch-up, with Nikon, Fujifilm and OM System already making some of the best retro cameras. I'm really hoping that Canon goes the extra mile and does something like sign a deal with Kodak for its own exclusive film simulations – and of course, I really want to see some vintage-style lenses to go with a vintage-style camera!
Canon gimbal camera
Going back around four years, Canon designed a gimbal camera featuring an interchangeable lens mount (which was widely believed to be EF-M, but on closer inspection I think it might have been RF or RF-S).
Fast-forward to today and Canon has resurrected its plans, and designed a camera that is strikingly similar to the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 – but now featuring a fixed zoom lens instead of an interchangeable one.
This looks to be a small sensor system, and it's probably a fair guess that we're looking at the kind of 1-inch sensor featured in the Canon PowerShot V10 and G7X Mark III. If Canon can actually get the product to market this time, it could be hugely popular.
Canon 3D VR Camera
I had a chance to talk to Canon about its prototype 360° / 180° 3D VR Camera. It's clear Canon is really doubling down on virtual reality, having introduced the Canon RF 5.2mm f/2.8L Dual Fisheye lens a couple of years ago and with a pair of APS-C 3D / VR stereoscopic lenses on the way as well.
This new camera, which physically looks like a mashup of the Dual FIsheye and the Canon PowerShot V10, combines all the tech in one: 360° / 180° 3D VR 8K capture, along with VR live streaming.
While this wasn't something Canon said to me, I've heard that the camera has a target price of under $1,000 (about £820 / AU$1,590). This is definitely something to keep an eye (or even a Dual Fisheye) on…
Canon Posture Fit
Back in 2021 Canon introduced us to Posture Fit: a concept camera that looks like a Pixar character and sits on your desk, where it keeps an eye on how you're sitting using a wide-angle lens and skeletal mapping. When it spots you starting to slouch, it flashes and wobbles and beeps on your desk to tell you to straighten up – and it'll even remind you to get up and move around, if you've been sitting too long.
After falling off the radar ever since, recently a patent was filed in Japan describing a Posture Fit that could monitor multiple subjects in its field of view – not just the person sat at the desk in front of it. Again, it's not a photographic camera (so it can't be used for spying or surveillance) but it's a very clever lifestyle device that anyone who sits in front of a computer will surely benefit from.
Canon EOS R3 Mark II
The R3 sits in a strange position in Canon's lineup, now that the R1 is here. Once the placeholder product until an official flagship was announced, some feel that it's a lame duck given that the actual flagship outclasses it in every way.
However, many of the innovations of the R3 made their way into the R1 (and indeed the R5 Mark II). Does the R3, then, become the technology launchpad of the EOS R family? The camera that debuts the latest tech, before it is further refined for the tentpole products?
I can certainly see sense in that. The Canon EOS R3 Mark II could, for example, be where the company debuts its first global shutter sensor – testing the waters with the sensor tech (which, it should be remembered, does come with a number of compromises) before doubling down on it in the R1 Mark II. Indeed, there are rumors that Canon is ready to launch a camera with a global shutter sensor.
At the same time, though, it could equally be that there is no further need for the R3. With the original camera now being three years old, the next few months are going to be very interesting…
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Nikon rumors 2025
The Nikon rumors have, of late, all come to fruition – which only gives further credence to the old "where there's smoke, there's fire" adage.
Already this year we've had the Nikon Z5 II, the Nikon Z50 II and, more significantly, the first "Yellow Red" or "Red Zed" Nikon / Red cameras featuring the Z mount.
So, with the Z lineup now comprising everything from entry-level to professional to prestige retro cameras (along with the Nikon Z fc Heralbony collabs, which might be the grooviest cameras the company has ever made), what are the latest Nikon rumors as 2025 gets underway?
Nikon ZR
Since buying Red, Nikon hasn't done much with the cinema brand other than put a Z mount on a couple of Red cameras – but that could be due to change by the end of the year.
The Big N is rumored to be launching the Nikon ZR, where the "R" stands for – you guessed it – "Red". The chatter I'm hearing is a bit unclear, but suggests that the camera might be Sony FX3-like in form and/or function.
At the same time, it's also been likened to the Nikon Z30, which I can only guess is because of the sort-of-similar ergonomics (namely the brick-like shape and lack of finder). Either way, it will apparently have a chunky rear LCD screen and is likely to feature the 24.5MP partially stacked sensor from the Nikon Z6 III.
None of which really helps narrow down where this camera might be pitched. Presumably somewhere similar to the FX3, but given Canon's success with the more everyman Canon EOS R50 V I wonder if Nikon should be aiming more squarely at creators?
Nikon Z9 II
The pandemic, along with the consequent supply chain collapse, knocked the Olympic cycle of flagship cameras out of whack. Traditionally, the big three manufacturers would sync the launch of their flagships with the Summer Olympic Games – but that's largely gone out of the window, and the Nikon Z9 II will apparently arrive in time for the 2026 Winter Olympics.
From what I've heard, you should expect evolution rather than revolution – much as was the case with the incremental advancements of the Sony A1 II over the original Sony A1. So you can expect largely the same core tech in the Z9 II, including the same sensor as the Nikon Z9.
What could be the biggest development will be on the video side, as Nikon is reportedly set to double down on the Z9's outstanding video specs by incorporating technology from Red (maker of some of the best cinema cameras, which Nikon bought in 2024).
Oh, and you can ignore those very plausible-looking presentation slides that were "leaked" at the beginning of April. They were, as you may have guessed, an April Fool (which originated in China, for anyone curious!).
Nikon Z7 III
There has been so much noise about the Nikon Z7 III that it's difficult to separate genuine information from wishful thinking. The launch of the Z6 III forced rumors about the new Z7 to kick into overdrive, with some whispers insisting that the camera isn't coming any time soon and others insisting that it's imminent – and even posting specifications.
One of the big rumors I'm hearing right now is that the camera will feature a 67MP sensor to topple the Sony A7R V, but this doesn't seem to come from anywhere credible. Instead, I'd expect the traditional resolution of 45.7MP, but perhaps a partially stacked sensor a la the Z6 III. Though I wonder if it actually needs a stacked sensor at all; given that the Z6 III and Z8 / Z9 are the speed demons of the family.
It is likely that 8K will remain the domain of the Z8 and Z9, so we're probably still looking at 4K video (or 6K at best), but the bump in image stabilization seen in other bodies is sure to appear here – so you can probably look forward to 8 stops of compensation.
Nikon Zf II
I've heard some scuttlebutt about a Nikon Zf II, but honestly it feels like wishful thinking more than anything.
To me, the whole point of the Nikon Zf is that it's a premium, special camera series – so the notion of iterating it into spin-offs with incremental improvements can only devalue that specialness.
Still, if the rumblings of an upgraded version with a 33MP sensor are true, that would certainly be interesting – though, truthfully, I think Nikon would be far better served producing some complementary retro lenses for the Zf and Zf c, rather than making new versions of cameras without enough lenses to go with them.
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Fujifilm rumors 2025
The Fujifilm rumors are as reliable as a Japanese train at this point, with plenty of water cooler talk proving to be prescient.
As was extensively rumored, the Fujifilm GFX100RF launched as the most audacious "compact" camera on the market – but that title was quickly usurped by the Fujifilm X Half, being the world's first digital half-frame camera and offering a "Film Camera Mode" inspired by the likes of the Camp Snap and Flashback One35.
With rumors that Fujifilm will unleash even more cameras this year, what else is on the way from the creative powerhouse?
Fujifilm GFX Eterna
In November we had the big reveal of the Fujifilm GFX Eterna filmmaking camera – and note that Fujifilm is very much stressing filmmaking rather than calling this a cinema camera, apparently keen to market the device to as broad a range of consumers as possible.
The announcement itself was scant on specifics, though the company that the Eterna uses the same sensor and processor as the Fujifilm GFX 100 II. While there will almost certainly be some cinema- filmmaking-specific fine-tuning, the core technology will likely be exactly the same; what's different here is the form factor.
In a sense, this is basically the same as how the Sony A7S III tech was put in a video-friendly frame and upcycled into the Sony FX3. So the Eterna will have all the ports and connectivity and riggability and filmmaking-friendly menus and controls, but will essentially be a GFX 100 II modified for filmmaking.
No Fujifilm film camera?
Despite film cameras experiencing a renaissance so great that many of the iconic brands – from Pentax to Rollei to Kodak – are all back in the game, Fujifilm has no plans to launch a new film camera of its own.
"For now, I don't think a new film camera is on the agenda," Franck Bernard, director of Fujifilm France's photo division, told Phototrend. He went on to suggest that the current boom may not quite be what everyone thinks.
"I would, however, qualify the idea of a 'return to film'. As a film manufacturer, we have access to market data and know whether this is really a large-scale phenomenon. It is true that there is a real craze for film, particularly among young people, who are looking to understand and learn.
"However, we also see its limits. We know exactly what we are offering: disposable cameras, films… There is indeed a return to film, but its importance should be put into perspective."
Fujifilm in the UK left the door slightly more open, telling Amateur Photographer "to never say never…" but added the same asterisk: "However, any business needs to analyze the prospects for a long-term opportunity over a short-term fad."
So, there you have it: a company that used to make film cameras, and still makes film, will probably not be making a new film camera.
Fujifilm X-Pro4
With no sign of the Fujifilm X-Pro4 on the horizon, and rumors that the manufacturer has stopped production of the Fujifilm X-Pro3, could this be the end of the line for the beloved rangefinder series?
Fujifilm wanted the X-Pro3 to be a camera that made you “rely more on your instincts” so, in a bold move, it removed the standard rear screen for a 'hidden' one that you had to flip out. Needless to say, not everyone loved this change. And although there has been no official announcement from Fujifilm, the X-Pro3 has been listed as discontinued by a number of retailers. And with the X-T5 and X-H2 being such phenomenal cameras, is there still demand for the quirky X-Pro line?
It's always been a prestige camera for the brand, given its position as the first interchangeable lens member of the X Series family. So the daddy of the X Series is highly symbolic – and I don't think we've seen the last of it, even if it becomes an even more niche product.
More camera rumors: Canon rumors • Nikon rumors • Sony rumors • Olympus rumors • Panasonic rumors • Hasselblad rumors • Leica rumors • Ricoh & Pentax rumors • GoPro rumors
Sony rumors 2025
The Sony rumors are flying thick and fast. Even though the launch of the Sony A9 III and now Sony A1 II have squashed some of the most recent chatter, it has ignited all new rumors in other departments!
There's also a lot of movement in the world of vlogging cameras, too, which is increasingly becoming the noisiest area of the industry. And with the company doubling down on this category, the Sony rumors are super strong when it comes to content creation.
Along with a certain product that's expected imminently…
Sony A7 V
Little is known about the successor to 2021's Sony A7 IV, other than it missed its planned Q4 2024 and Q1 2025 launches. However, we know that Sony has recently registered a new body with certification authorities – which is widely believed to be the A7 V.
I've heard all kinds of talk about the sensor – including suggestions that the A7 V would use Sony's new 44MP sensor to put it in line with the Canon EOS R5 Mark II and Nikon Z7 II – but there are also signs pointing to it retaining the same sensor resolution (if not the same sensor), also featured by the Sony A7C II and the upcoming Sony FX2.
A slew of AI features – perhaps similar in tone to the upscaling we saw in the Canon EOS R1 and R5 Mark II and – would certainly be much more interesting to me than a resolution bump. And with AI being all the rage right now, Sony could do worse than market an "AI camera".
Sony A7S IV
The Sony A7S III was launched back in October 2020, meaning that the video-centric Alpha camera is long overdue a refresh (though arguably it's already had at least three, in the guide of the Sony FX3, Sony FX6 and Sony ZV-E1, all of which have the same sensor and all but the latter have much the same features).
From what I hear, Sony has taken its foot off the gas with the A7S series but has not abandoned it – so we will see an A7S IV at some point. However, its focus is squarely on the ZV and FX ranges – particularly the latter, which has exploded in popularity.
It feels as if we may actually see the opposite of what happened last time, with the A7S IV tech debuting in an FX body, before being launched with slight variations in the traditional A7S form factor.
Sony FX3 II (instead of an A7S IV?)
It's long been rumored that another FX3 camera is on the way. However, what's really interesting is the suggestion that we might actually get an FX3 II instead of an A7S IV rather than in addition to it – though the latest I've heard is that Sony is intent on keeping the A7S line alive.
Whether both cameras make it to market or not, it's very plausible that they share the same architecture – given that the FX3 and FX6 were in many ways rebodied A7S IIIs. Whether Sony decides to keep the A7S series alive or merge it with the content-come-cinema halfway house of the FX3 line will be very interesting.
Sony A6200
Originally expected to arrive in the summer, the Sony A6200 is said to possess the same excellent 26MP image sensor as the Sony A6700 – which has also been used in the ZV-E10 II.
My question is, does Sony – or the consumer, for that matter – really want or need both cameras, especially with the ZV camera as a third option?
New Sony RX1
If you've been waiting for an affordable alternative to the Leica Q3, you might be in luck. Sony Rumors has speculated that we could see Sony resurrect its full-frame compact camera line, with a new RX1 – which would be the first since 2016's RX1R II.
Compact cameras have been seeing a resurgence of late, thanks to the likes of the Q3 and Fujifilm X100VI, so it would be interesting to see what Sony brings to the party.
More camera rumors: Canon rumors • Nikon rumors • Olympus rumors • Fuji rumors • Panasonic rumors • Hasselblad rumors • Leica rumors • Ricoh & Pentax rumors • GoPro rumors
Olympus / OM System rumors 2025
Technically "Olympus rumors" are "OM System rumors", but old habits die hard! Even though we've had years to get used to the new name, and the last ever camera to bear the Olympus logo (the OM System OM-1) has now been replaced (by the OM System OM-1 Mark II), it's a habit to break.
After a quiet 2024, OM Digital CEO Shigemi Sugimoto penned an open letter to start the year and teased the OM System OM-3 that launched this month – the long-awaited spiritual successor to the Olympus PEN-F and a camera that was universally praised/
So what does the look like, then? Well, I understand that what's old is going to be new again…
OM System Trip 35
I've no idea where this rumor started, but it certainly jibes with the wishlists of people I've spoken to at OM over the years. Following the cult-like popularity of the digital Olympus PEN-F, Oly employees often said that they hoped the beloved Olympus Trip 35 would follow suit.
Well, mention of a mirrorless revival in the form of an OM Trip 35 has recently hit the web. And this certainly makes a lot of sense, given the rampant popularity of compact cameras recently, as the original Trip was one of the most popular compacts ever made.
If OM were to release a modern version, with an equivalent of the fixed 40mm f/2.8 lens (which would be a 20mm lens, assuming that OM sticks to its Micro Four Thirds pedigree), this could be one of the biggest cameras of the year.
OM System OM-10
The OM System OM-10 seemed to be the next most obvious camera to be announced. After the transmogrification of the OM-D EM-1 and E-M5 to the OM System OM-1 and OM-5, it felt like the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV was next in line to be reborn.
Except, it hasn't happened. And perhaps it never will. The E-M5 was the original OM-D, and a truly pioneering mirrorless camera, when it launched in 2012. It was followed by the first E-M1 in 2013 as a professional model, then the OG E-M10 in 2014 as the entry-level member of the family.
As the generations progressed, however, the product line became increasingly incestuous, with the different models leapfrogging each other in terms of the features they offered – leading to a slightly muddy product lineup where the E-M10 felt like the odd man out.
It feels like there may not be a demand for an OM-10 in the current market, with a much cleaner delineation now existing between the OM-1 as the flagship and the OM-5 as the enthusiast model.
Of course, now that everybody knows Taylor Swift uses an E-M10, perhaps that's reason enough to launch an OM-10!
OM System PEN
Speaking of things that haven't happened yet, despite widespread expectation (and confirmation) that they would, we come to the PEN line of cameras. Under the Olympus regime, there were two tiers of interchangeable mirrorless cameras: the OM-D series of SLR-styled performance cameras (with an EVF), and the PEN series of rangefinder-style, fashion-first cameras (typically without an EVF).
While the OM-D series (now the OM range) was aimed at a core photography crowd, the PEN cameras were geared towards creators, street shooters and entry-level users… with the exception of the powerhouse Olympus PEN-F, which was a prestige camera and has become a cult classic. PEN cameras were (and, in fact, remain) blockbuster sellers in Japan, but never found much success in the US. Indeed, the most recent camera – the brilliant Olympus PEN E-P7 – wasn't even released in the States.
In any case, OM Digital Solutions confirmed that the PEN line would continue after it purchased the camera business from Olympus – but that was years ago, now, and we haven't seen a peep of a new PEN.
"In Japan and Asia we continue to sell PEN E-P7," OM executive Kazuhiro Togashi told DP Review. "The E-P7 is small, with compact bright lenses, making it highly advantageous for travel photography. Therefore, we’ll reinforce such products in our lineup in the future." Which gives a glimmer of hope that we might get a new PEN.
However, given OM System's overt rebranding as an outdoor and adventure camera company, a new PEN doesn't seem to make sense. OM is courting landscape and wildlife shooters, not street photographers or the influencer crowd – despite PEN cameras being such an obvious alternative to the Fujifilm X100VI.
Togashi did note that "our definition of outdoor use extends beyond just the adventurous; it encompasses outdoor activities in everyday life as well," adding that "we’d like to try to expand the scope of people enjoying cameras for travels or for everyday use to capture scenery."
OM System OM-1X
Rumors arose late last year that OM Digital was working on a new powerhouse camera for 2024, but I don't think that was in reference to the OM-1 Mark II. When it comes to powerhouses, though, the only other camera that fits the bill would be an OM System OM-1X. And, sure enough, I've just heard fresh rumors that a new "X" is indeed on the way.
This would be the spiritual successor to the Olympus OM-D E-M1X, which was the company's co-flagship camera for a time (sitting alongside the E-M1 Mark II). It had a much chunkier body, with a pro-DSLR form factor body and integrated vertical grip, as well as twin processors to power the then-new features like Deep Learning AF and software-driven ND filters.
It never felt like the original E-M1X found an audience, as obviously a double decker DSLR-sized camera goes against the principles of Micro Four Thirds. But, as an all-guns-blazing option for pros who use big lenses, long battery life and as much firepower as possible, it does make sense.
I just hope it comes with a new sensor and ideally more megapixels (as Panasonic managed with the G9 II)…
More camera rumors: Canon rumors • Nikon rumors • Sony rumors • Fuji rumors • Panasonic rumors • Hasselblad rumors • Leica rumors • Ricoh & Pentax rumors • GoPro rumors
Panasonic rumors 2025
The Panasonic rumors are still swirling, with the manufacturer having plenty to whisper about when it comes to both full-frame mirrorless cameras and Micro Four Thirds cameras.
It's been super busy of late, launching the Lumix S9 compact full-frame camera and the Lumix GH7 flagship MFT video camera – not to mention the Panasonic Lumix G97, confirming its commitment to the smaller sensor format. And it even dropped a revamped Lumix ZS99 / TZ99 before Christmas, feeding the current compact camera craze.
So, what can we expect this year from the first manufacturer to make a mirrorless camera certified by Netflix? Here are the latest Panasonic rumors…
Panasonic Lumix S1H II
There have been persistent whispers about a successor to the Panasonic Lumix S1H, the company's full-frame video specialist, but I think it's really more speculation than anything. I've heard all sorts of things about 50MP sensors and built-in ND filters, but it feels a bit like wishful thinking.
We do, at least, have an official response from Panasonic about the Lumix S1H II, courtesy of business development and product planning executive, Matt Frazer:
"I'm sure at some point there'll be a replacement for the S1H. We have to kind of do things in a sequence; the S1 series was the next most logical cameras to be replaced, and so starting with the S1R made the most sense because the sensor was ready for it."
Panasonic Lumix G100 II
While the Panasonic G100D launched late last year, it's a very minor update with a new EVF and USB-C port. However, it's been reported that a full Panasonic G100 II is on the way.
It will apparently possess phase detect autofocus – something that was sorely, sorely missing on the original, which was marketed as a vlogging camera but often struggled to keep vloggers in focus. It will also feature the same 25.1MP image sensor as the Panasonic Lumix G9 II and boast 4K 60p 4:2:2 10-bit video, but keep the same single memory card setup.
Panasonic Lumix S5R
Recently there has been mention of an entirely new camera: the Panasonic S5R. This is an interesting one, as it would mark a divergence from manufacturer's previous product segmentation: the flagship Panasonic S1 (recently discontinued), the resolution-focused Panasonic S1R, the video-focused Panasonic S1H and the enthusiast-level Panasonic S5.
Of course, when the Panasonic S5 II became the company's first camera to feature phase detect autofocus, it threw the wider product line into disarray – to the point where the S5 series may not be the primary point of interest.
Indeed, the Panasonic S5 IIX is so video-savvy that many question the need for the S1H II. And now, with chatter of a resolution-oriented S5R, it feels as if the market is demanding the S5 as its champion and leading Panasonic in a different direction.
Panasonic Lumix S1X
If you think the S5R rumor seems like a stretch, then you're going to love the reports of a Panasonic S1X. It feels super sketchy to us; at least there is some merit to the thought process of Panasonic expanding the newly successful S5 product line, but to introduce another new one? Not impossible, just implausible.
Much like the whispered specs, as shared by L-Rumors, which include the likes of a 49MP BSI sensor, 8.5K 48p video, 60fps bursts, 17 stops of dynamic range and omnidirectional phase detect autofocus. More salt, please, waiter…
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Hasselblad rumors 2025
While Hasselblad has given ground to Fujifilm in recent years, it still makes some of the best medium format cameras in the world – such as the stellar Hasselblad X2D 100C, which might be the best pure stills camera you can buy.
And it continues to bring to market more traditional form factors such as the Hasselblad 907X – keeping not just the technology, but the spirit of medium format photography alive.
So what are the latest Hasselblad rumors doing the rounds?
Hasselblad X2D II 100C
Hasselblad's mirrorless release cycle sees a new mainline X camera released every three years – and this is that third year. Sure enough, the company has registered a new model – the HB722 – with certification bodies such as the FCC. So it certainly looks like we're getting a new member of the family in 2025.
For reference, the Hasselblad X1D 50C launched in 2016, followed by the X1D II 50C in 2019 and the X2D 100C in 2022. So, if history is anything to go by, this newly registered model will be the Hasselblad X2D II 100C – and may see similar refinements in areas like autofocus and operational speed as its predecessors.
One thing I would be astonished to see, though, is the return of video – a feature that was present in the original X1D, but was never implemented in successive models.
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Leica rumors 2025
Last year was a busy one for the Red Dot specialist, between the launch of the Leica SL3 (the latest model in its mirrorless system), the Leica Q3 43 (a sister model to the Leica Q3) and even a "new" (well, its newest upcycle of the Panasonic LX100 II) compact camera, the Leica D-Lux 8.
And the company hit the ground running this year with the launch of the Leica SL3-S, the first new camera of 2025, along with commemorative cameras to celebrate its 100th birthday (along with 100th anniversary teddy bears and other collectibles). But what does it have in store next?
Leica M11-V
Rumors have been rife for years that Leica will introduce an M camera with an electronic viewfinder, but the latest Leica rumors suggest that it might make its debut in a special edition version of the M11 – something that could be a canny move.
With plenty of resistance among rangefinder purists (including my colleague Seb!), making an EVF standard with the Leica M12 could do damage to the brand's most loyal fanbase. However, by releasing a Leica M11-V, the company would have a specific edition that those who want an EVF can opt into if they want – preserving the purity of the M line at large.
While Leica head honcho Dr Kauffman artfully deflected questions about an M camera with an EVF in a recent interview, the company has registered a new camera that is widely speculated to be exactly that.
Leica M12
Could this finally be the year that the M series goes all-electronic – and gets in-body image stabilization (IBIS), to boot? Leica has previously lamented that the M bodies are too small to implement IBIS, but later noted that omitting the mechanical shutter would free up the necessary space.
We've been hearing noise forever that an electronic viewfinder might be on the way to M cameras, too, so perhaps the Leica M12 could be the launchpad for a sweeping suite of changes.
There are also rumors that the M12 will be some 3mm smaller than the Leica M11, and that the screen could be almost an inch bigger – with chatter that this could be done to replace some or all of the physical buttons, as was the case with cameras like the Leica TL2.
According to FCC certification documents, the camera (or at least, a camera) was set to be announced on May 16. That obviously hasn't happened, though – and Leica's next camera is believed to be among those delayed by mysterious external circumstances.
Leica S4
After teasing us with Easter eggs and coy comments for what feels like an eternity, Leica has confirmed that a new medium format camera is on the way.
Leica chief Andreas Kauffman is shy about specifics, saying only that the camera exists and is being developed, because its development has proven difficult – perhaps due to the growing pains, moving from the DSLR technology of the Leica S3 to match the mirrorless medium format of the GFXes and Hasselblads of the world.
Cyril Thomas, CEO of Leica France, has noted that he doesn't think we will see the camera in 2025, which underlines just how challenging the product seems to be.
No more APS-C cameras
Leica's last APS-C camera was, in fact, Leica's last APS-C camera. Dr Kauffman recently stated that the company "wants to move away" from APS-C, as the company's strategy is built almost entirely around full-frame sensor technology.
In short, there will be no successor to the Leica CL or the Leica TL2 (unless you count, as Kauffman does with a twist of lemon, the Sigma BF as the modern update of the TL).
However, Leica obviously makes cameras using non-full-frame sensors – the medium format Leica S4 is in development, for starters (see above), and the long-running D-Lux line continues to see sales success with Micro Four Thirds sensors. Just don't go expecting any L-Mount APS-C bodies.
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Ricoh & Pentax rumors 2025
Being one of the most intriguing camera brands in the business, there are plenty of Ricoh rumors to digest – particularly as it also makes Pentax cameras. This is a manufacturer that truly marches to the beat of its own drum.
It remains absolutely adamant that it won't be going mirrorless with its Pentax brand (after briefly flirting with the Pentax Q mirrorless system years ago) and instead will concentrate on making the best DSLRs – a category that is very much an open goal, with Canon and Nikon both ceasing development of new products.
It's also going to keep cranking out some of the best compact cameras, with the recently announced Ricoh GR IV and its ongoing line of Pentax waterproof cameras.
Its most exciting plans, however, revolve around the renaissance of analog photography. Some of the best film cameras in history have born the Pentax name, and the first new entry in 21 years – the Pentax 17 half-frame camera – seeks to start that tradition all over again.
So what exactly is the company up to? Here are the latest Ricoh and Pentax rumors…
Ricoh GR IV
After months of teases and rumors, the Ricoh GR IV has been revealed. Pretty much all the main specs have been revealed, such as the 25.7MP sensor, 5-axis in-body image stabilization and 55GB internal storage.
However, since this is only a development announcement, it's possible that changes could be made – such as to Ricoh's decision not to include 4K video. Personally, I'm also keen to know about the camera's battery life, since the anaemic shot capacity of the GR III was a huge weakness for the camera.
Ricoh GR IV HDF
Confirmed alongside the GR IV was the development of the Ricoh GR IV HDF. While no specs were revealed, it was described as being "based on this new GR IV" – which suggests that, much like the original Ricoh GR III HDF, this edition will share the same core specs.
For those not in the know, the HDF version replaces the ND filter of the base model with a Highlight Diffusion Filter (hence the "HDF") to produce a dreamy, analog-like look.
Ricoh Theta A1
It's been over a decade since Ricoh launched its original 360 camera, the Theta, but now a new model has been leaked: the Ricoh Theta A1.
In terms of nomenclature, that sits at the opposite end of the alphabet to the flagship Ricoh Theta Z1 launched in 2019 (a 23MP camera with 1-inch sensors, 7K 360° stills and 4K 30p spherical video) and then re-released in 2022 as a 51GB version (same camera, 32GB more storage).
Does that mean the upcoming A1 will also sit at the opposite end of the specs sheet? As yet no technical details are available – though there are whispers that it won't have a large touchscreen (unlike the signature 2.25-inch screen of the Ricoh Theta X).
So perhaps this is going to be a new entry-level model, rather than a high-end offering. It's unclear what this means for the Ricoh Theta SC2, which is the current low-cost camera, though it's feasible that the A1 could be a replacement.
Ricoh GR IVx
It seems like a no-brainer that the GR IV will follow the template of the GR III when it comes to variants and special editions. As much was confirmed, when Ricoh revealed the a GR IV HDF was on the way – so it's almost certain that a Ricoh GR IVx will join the lineup sooner than later.
The key strength of fixed-lens compact cameras is also a key weakness: the lens is fixed. The Ricoh GR IIIx addressed this, offering identical tech to the Ricoh GR III but with a longer 28mm lens (compared to the original's 18.3mm).
This set a new industry trend, with the Leica Q3 43 (offering a 43mm lens compared to the Leica Q3's 28mm) following Ricoh's lead, so it's a safe bet that a Ricoh GR IVx with a 28mm lens is incoming.
Ricoh GR IV Monochrome
After opting not to release a monochrome edition of the GR III (ostensibly so as not to cannibalize sales of the Pentax K-3 Mark III Monochrome, if you believe the gossip), I'm now hearing talk that a Ricoh GR IV Monochrome edition may follow the launch of the base model later in 2025.
There has long been demand among GR users for a black-and-white camera, but despite five different variants this never happened with the GR III.
While I still suspect that we'll be getting a rinse and repeat of those variants, since they're so cost-effective to produce (just by changing the lens on the GR IVx, or swapping the filter on the GR IV HDF), putting an entirely different sensor in the camera is a much bigger proposition… but one that looks like yet another license to print money.
Pentax Film Project on hold
Pentax's film camera development was dealt a huge blow in March 2025 when Takeo "TKO" Suzuki, lead designer of the Pentax 17 (and other Pentax digital cameras), announced his retirement.
Concurrently, if not consequently, Pentax stated that "we need time to gather feedback, meet with customers, and learn what they appreciated – or felt was missing – before making decisions on future film products."
The company noted that, "while TKO played a significant role in the Pentax Film Project, his departure does not affect the possibility of future film models" – though it's obviously hard not to join those particular dots.
Either way, it appears that rumored plans for one more affordable compact camera (perhaps, per Pentax / Ricoh tradition, with a different focal length) and two traditional SLRs are on hold for now.
Pentax K-3 Mark IV
File this one under "maybe" for now. However, recent rumblings are that Pentax is ready to drop an "interesting" new DSLR this year. Quite what that means, I haven't been able to find out. However, the Pentax K-3 Mark III was an interesting camera itself in that it felt a lot like a hybrid between DSLR handling and mirrorless innovation. Could that "interesting" DNA be what's being whispered about?
Here's something else that's interesting: Pentax officially discontinued the K-3 Mark III in January – unlike the K-1 Mark II, which is widely expected to be replaced but is still listed as a current product.
So, you know, signs certainly point to a gap that could be neatly filled with a very interesting Mark IV of this great little camera…
Pentax K-1 Mark III
After Pentax confirmed that the Mark III is in development, telling customers to "rest assured it is currently in progress and please be patient for further news," it's now being reported that the camera is going into production in October in Vietnam – and I've even heard some specs.
We can apparently expect the Pentax K-1 Mark III to boast a 61MP back-side illuminated sensor with in-body image stabilization, GPS, Astrotracer and the latest version (14) of the company's SAFOX autofocus system.
The camera will boast dual CFexpress card slots, supporting "very fast fps" and "4K (and higher) video". We're also said to be getting a new smartphone app, complete with live view for remote shooting and monitoring.
Pentax K-3 Mark III Astro
The company announced plans back at the start of 2022 for an astrophotography-focused Pentax K-3 Mark III. Much as the Monochrome edition was a dedicated black-and-white camera, so the Astro version will be specifically for shooting stars.
This model supposedly has a Hα (hydrogen-alpha) sensitivity of x10, so it's likely that nebula will photograph well using this proposed camera. A hydrogen-alpha filter is commonly used among other filters in astrophotography kits to assist in photographing deep sky objects in what's called true-color or broadband. It's been over a year now – does Pentax still plan to challenge the best cameras for astrophotography?
Pentax K-3 Mark III Gunmetal
Announced in January 2022, this seems to be a purely cosmetic makeover of the K-3 Mark III – as was the case with the darker-than-Darth Vader Pentax K-3 Mark III Jet Black.
The Gunmetal variant looks pretty much the same as the Prestige Edition of the original Pentax K-3, released back in 2014, and appears to come with the same Gunmetal grip and 20-40mm lens.
We've heard no updates but – since the cosmetic Jet Black launched in 2022, followed by the new-sensor Monochrome in 2023 – we can see this new cosmetic design materializing in 2024.
Pentax K-3 Mark III Shutter Stroke Change
We really weren't kidding when we said that Ricoh has a penchant for special editions. All we know about this one, announced in 2022, is that it's designed for faster shooting with a shallower shutter stroke.
With it being designed for speed, it might also make sense to up the 12fps maximum burst speed. This could be a big ask for Ricoh's R&D team, especially since Nikon once claimed that 12fps was as fast as DSLR shutters could fire. However, since the Nikon D6 can hit 14fps and the Canon EOS-1D X Mark III hits 16fps, it would be nice for the only DSLR maker left in town to catch up with the ghosts of its rivals.
Pentax K-3 Mark III MF
The final K-3 Mark III variant that Ricoh announced was the MF, which stands for Manual Focus. Again, Ricoh really loves a special edition body – especially since it requires relatively little in the way of additional R&D, since it's using the same camera design with slightly different tech and tweaks inside.
We'll admit, an exclusively manual focus camera in (we assume at the earliest) 2024 is a pretty hard sell. But Pentax fans are the hardest of the hardcore DSLR users, and the nichest of the niche photography aficionados – if anyone can make it work, it's Ricoh.
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GoPro rumors 2025
While I'm hearing more GoPro rumors than I can remember in recent memory, many of them are more to do with the company's very public struggles.
However, while GoPro's CEO has declined his salary for the rest of the year following a cull of 15% of the workforce, the company is committed to its planned launches – which will hopefully help dig it out of its $80 million hole.
Here are the GoPro rumors that have been whispered around the water cooler lately…
GoPro Max2
After an excruciating six-year wait, we will finally get a new GoPro Max this year – and by that I'm talking about an actual second-generation version, not the upcycled GoPro Max 360.
However, while that light refresh of the original model came with a comfortingly lower price, we could be looking at an excruciating $599 price tag for the GoPro Max2. So far there's been no whisper of specs, but CEO Nicholas Woodman is understandably very excited about it – and confirmed that it's coming in 2025.
"We’re excited about the progress we’ve made on what we believe are innovative capabilities that will redefine the 360 camera market and position Max2 as the world’s most impressive 360 camera," said Woodman.
"Innovation can be hard, and we’re proud of our engineers who’ve stayed committed to making Max2 into something truly special – we cannot wait to launch it later this year."
GoPro Hero14
Like iPhones, new Heros come along like clockwork – so the fact that a GoPro Hero14 is on the way should come as no surprise.
While, again, not much is known about the Hero14, we do at least know a bit more than we do about the Max2 – namely that it will feature the next generation of the company's system on chip, GP3. This is GoPro's proprietary tech, responsible for improved image processing and overall performance.
However, "new image processor" isn't the sexiest thing to sell to prospective customers (and usually manifest as "10% faster" kind of bullet points) so the Hero14 will have to do more than that to win over an increasingly disillusioned audience.
GoPro tech helmet
GoPro has acquired Australian tech-enabled helmet manufacturer Forcite. However, while Forcite specializes in motorcycle helmets, GoPro intends to expand into other helmet markets – and also plans to partner with other manufacturers.
"In addition to our plan to develop our own GoPro-branded line of helmets, we are excited to partner with other leading helmet brands to help tech-enable their own helmet lines," said GoPro founder Nicholas Woodman. "We have great respect for established brands, and we look forward to working with them to help drive the industry forward, together."
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