When it comes to Canon cameras, there are multiple reports coming in every day. From lens patents to the potential introduction of new full-frame cameras, Canon’s potential fall announcements are buzzing. However, while people are looking at greener pastures, the future of a model seems uncertain: the R8. So, what’s causing this?
Can You Buy the R8?
Canon Rumor reports that the Canon R8’s days are limited. Two separate sources have revealed that the “new stock of the Canon EOS R8 body can no longer be ordered.” The kit versions are available, such as the RF 24-50mm f4.5-6.3 IS STM lens.
If you look at Canon USA’s website, the camera is now in backorder. While you can purchase the camera, you will have to wait until the inventory replenishes.
On the other hand, Canon Japan and MAP Camera, one of the largest camera retailers in the country, are selling the body-only options.
Canon Rumors states that this is an indicator of the reported launch of the R8 II. The second generation of cameras will either be introduced in late August or at the beginning of September. And with the retailers unable to get new stock of the R8 body only option, the report states that the timeline seems to be leaning towards the launch.
What the R8 Mk II Could Look Like
The Canon R8 II is one of the most anticipated cameras of the year. The camera is said to feature a new 32.5MP full-frame CMOS sensor, a jump from the 24.5MP resolution of the R8. It is said to have a continuous shooting speed of 40fps with electronic shutter, making it one of the fastest cameras in the affordable range. The Dual SD card slot is another added bonus. 4K video recording is confirmed in the rumored specs, though notably without the 7K oversampling that more expensive Canon bodies offer.
One of the most anticipated additions is the report of in-body stabilization. The Canon R8 lacked this that frustrated buyers, especially enthusiasts who are still young and need a reliable device. If the R8 II offers IBIS, this would shift Canon’s product philosophy, which is to give basic products premium features. Other features, such as the mechanical shutter, are said to be absent this time.
The Canon R8 II is also said to fill in the retro camera gap, but the details of the same are very vague. It is also possible that nothing of this nature is true, or it is a rivaling camera for the Nikon Zf.
What’s clear is that Canon is watching the enormous commercial success of retro-styled cameras from Nikon, Fujifilm, and others, and appears ready to make its own play for that audience. In fact, if the R8 II is announced with a retro-body, then it will be worth the upgrade for many.
With the announcement being so close, the decline of R8 may have been tied to the reported upcoming launch. It remains to be seen what the company has in store in the future, but for now, it proves that Canon is only investing in places that reap rewards.
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