Fujifilm cameras have been winning over the photo industry. The company has introduced several exciting models over the years, including the X100V, the X-Pro 3, and the GFX100S II, among others, which continue to hold strong appeal for photographers. While the company is trying to broaden its horizons by introducing new models in the APS-C and medium format markets, it appears that its next focus is the compact cameras segment. And, per reports, we may see something new very soon.
According to Fujifilm Rumors, the company is currently working on a new compact camera that will feature a 1-inch sensor. Although there are no official comments on this matter, it appears that the news originates from trusted sources close to the publication. Currently, the company’s 1-inch sensor camera, the X-Half, continues to gain traction among other photographers. Additionally, there is no confirmation on whether the device will continue the reign of the existing compact camera lineup or will be a new device in its own right.
This does not rule out the fact that the company can review any 2/3rd sensor cameras with a 1-inch internal hardware. This means that the chances of X30, XQ2, and the XF1 all stand a chance of being revived. With the X-Half, the company took the leap, and it’s giving its awards. In other words, they may use the same in-house tech to work with older cameras, but with a newer inside.
In another survey, Fujifilm Rumors revealed that if such a camera were to be launched, its users would either prefer the X30 or the XQ2. However, a sizable number were also against the 1-inch sensors, as it means other X-series cameras will also be delayed.
Either way, a new 1-inch camera sounds exciting, given the demand for compact cameras in the past few years. With Kodak launching analog point-and-shoots, Fujifilm, too, sees a market that it can easily dominate. They are able to do so with X-series models that have APS-C sensors and the GFX series, which continues the medium format range.
We have tested the X30, and in our review, we found the device largely satisfying our needs. The build was great, so were the images, but it definitely had wonky metering and weird buttons. However, we did not have the chance to test the XQ2, so we cannot discuss whether the device would make a sensor. But purely from technical specifications, the device can be popular amongst young users. The XF1 remains popular, thanks to its compact size and excellent JPEG quality.
Fujifilm’s pivot to compact cameras is an obvious means to tap into younger audiences. The company achieved this with the Instax series, one of the most popular options for those seeking quick, nostalgic prints. In the same vein, a new 1-inch sensor camera can help people rely on recently produced devices that are readily available on the market. The make-or-break factor, however, remains the price point. The X-Half costs about $800, but it also offers film simulations and filters, as well as the ability to make diptychs. One may be tempted to get their hands on it. If the new 1-inch sensor camera can either lower the price or offer such innovations, then there will continue to be buyers.