The renewed interest in small sensor cameras is quite evident in the industry. From compact cameras to retro digital cameras and rising sales of APS-C—everything indicates a unique change in how people perceive these devices. For the most part, it’s all about cost. This does not negate the fact that full-frame cameras are still important to the industry; it is just that the entry-level camera chasm filled by smartphone cameras falling short now. Amidst such changes, there is another report that OM System may release a new micro four-thirds camera.
A Pen-F or OM5 Mk II?
According to 43Rumors (via DigiCame Info), sources close to the publication have reported that the company is currently developing a micro four-thirds camera with a vintage design. They are certain that it is not the legendary Pen-F but could be a successor to the OM1 or OM5. The price point is suggested to be around $1,700. Other than that, the Chinese source has not disclosed anything. The publication believes that OM System may work on specific editions, such as titanium or something that they have released in the past.
Although the source believes it will likely be released at the end of 2024, we call this a bluff. Historically, brands avoid the holiday season, especially the year-end holidays, to launch new cameras. The buzz around it will die soon, as many people are too busy with their families. So, seeing them in the first half of 2025 would make sense.
The OM1 Mk II was launched earlier this year, and in our news post, we did mention that the camera doesn’t seem like a major upgrade from the 2022 model. Furthermore, when it was launched, we also mentioned that many in the industry would not care, as they would prefer offerings from Leica, Canon, or Sony for their commercial work. So, if OM1 Mk II is here already, it is safe to say that the company will look at other offerings.
OM System Should Strike While The Iron is Hot
To put it simply, the Olympus Pen-F is the best camera from the company, launched in 2016. It’s been close to a decade, and that’s a long enough time for them to launch a second generation. A 2016 model will require more upgrades, especially considering how far technology has come. Today, rangefinder-style cameras are making a comeback, and people want better features in a retro camera body. The Pentax 17 and Fujifilm X100vi both proved that there is still demand for distinct cameras, and the OM system’s Pen-F can deliver that. We have also listed the new features a Pen-F generation two can include to make it more sellable.
There are also reports that the OM5 Mk II is a better option. In our review, we said that the camera is rugged and a perfect option for adventure and travel photographers. So, if there is a new update, the camera needs to include some upgrades, such as weather sealing and computational photography, amongst others, for it to stand out. At the same time, some photographers want a digital version of the SLR OM3 as part of the latest rumor. For the unversed, the camera was launched in 1983 and was the last mechanical camera released by the company. The design is quite simple and has no frills. So, a device like that can work well today with a good sensor, processor, and rugged body, making it a premium model. This could also get the attention of professional photographers.
However, we only request that the OM System does not run after pleasing the content creators segment, as Fujifilm did with X-M5. You can focus on one segment while completely forgetting another. You can have two dedicated cameras rather than a hybrid that does justice to only one segment’s need.