The long-dormant Nikon DL premium compact series, officially discontinued in February 2017 before a single unit shipped, may be poised for an unexpected revival. Development was originally halted after Nikon encountered serious challenges with the camera’s electronics, and the broader compact camera market contracted sharply during that delay.
Fresh details point to a dual-model strategy
According to new information, Nikon is now evaluating the release of one or two cameras under the DL banner. One scenario suggests a single model built around a 24–70 mm equivalent zoom lens. An alternative plan would see the launch of both originally announced variants: a model with an 18–50 mm f/1.8–2.8 lens and a second featuring a 24–85 mm f/1.8–2.8 lens. The 24–500 mm super-zoom edition that was part of the 2016 announcement is reportedly no longer under consideration.
Modern sensor and premium positioning
The revived lineup is expected to incorporate a contemporary 24-megapixel 1-inch-type sensor, which would place the camera in direct competition with models such as the Canon Powershot G7 X Mark III. Nikon is said to be targeting the premium compact segment with a notably refined body and user-configurable filter options. An electronic viewfinder is likely to be offered as an optional hot-shoe accessory, rather than built in.
Parallel full-frame development
An official release timeline and pricing have not yet surfaced, and the project remains unconfirmed by Nikon. The DL series is reportedly being developed in parallel with a new full-frame compact camera, not as a replacement for it. If realized, the move would mark Nikon’s return to a category it abandoned amid technical setbacks and shifting consumer demand nearly a decade ago.
Source: nikonrumors.com