Canon to Announce Two Full Frame Mirrorless Cameras on May 16th ?
Canon’s product launch cycle has been unusual, likely due to past leaks. Simon of The Ordinary Filmmaker reports a source claiming Canon will announce two full-frame cameras in May. Interestingly, neither is the anticipated EOS R1, expected to follow the EOS R3’s development announcement and launch pattern.
The source indicates the two cameras can be preordered, while the EOS R1 will likely require waiting until Q4. Beyond the expected EOS R5 Mark II and EOS R1, there’s no information about other cameras. However, Canon has registered 3 EOS R and 2 Cinema EOS cameras with certification bodies, all expected by early 2024.
Speculation about the second camera includes an EOS RP follow-up (perhaps an R9) or an EOS R6 Mark III. The EOS R6 launched in July 2020 after the R5 and was refreshed in November 2022. The R6 line has been Canon’s best-selling full-frame mirrorless series. A May 15th announcement would be only 560 days since the Mark II, far less than the 846 days between the original R6 and R6 II.
The creator market has transformed, with new platforms, higher production values, and competition from Sony and Nikon. Streamlining launches could offer Canon cost savings. A recent $500 instant rebate on the R6 II could reflect promotion programs noted in Canon’s financials.
The third registered camera has WiFi 5 while the others feature WiFi 6, perhaps indicating an entry-level model. However, the current R6 II also has WiFi 5, suggesting mid-range cameras may not need upgraded connectivity.
Canon has avoided teasers and leaks more recently, since more insider knowledge increases leaks. Some major non-US retailers haven’t had NDA meetings about upcoming products. Accessory makers are under NDA expiring this month.
While more R5 Mark II information is privately known, sources have requested it not be published yet. The potential for an R6 III announcement is new speculation based on observations, but new history can happen. More specifications should emerge soon.
via: CR