Key Takeaways
1. Leica is reportedly developing a new M-series camera with an electronic viewfinder, but it will not replace the Leica M11.
2. The new camera may feature a hybrid viewfinder option, combining electronic and optical elements, as suggested by customer feedback.
3. The upcoming model will have a new design, including a larger 3.9-inch touchscreen replacing rear buttons and a smaller overall size compared to the M11.
4. The introduction of an electronic viewfinder could improve focusing capabilities, especially for subjects closer than 27 inches and with long telephoto lenses.
5. Changes in design and features may lower costs and maintenance but could compromise the unique characteristics of the M series.
For several years now, there have been some unclear whispers about Leica working on a new M-series camera that would feature an electronic viewfinder. These whispers may actually hold some truth, as LeicaRumors has reported that this new camera could be released later this year. However, it will not directly replace the Leica M11 but will instead be an additional model within the Leica M series.
Features and Unique Selling Points
This news isn’t overly shocking because the rangefinder has always been a key characteristic of the Leica M series and a major draw for buyers. At the moment, besides the Leica M series and the Pixii, there are no other digital rangefinder cameras available. It’s still uncertain if Leica plans to completely remove the rangefinder, or if they will create a hybrid viewfinder like the one found in the Fujifilm X100 VI. Such a hybrid would combine an electronic and optical viewfinder by showing EVF information within the user’s sight. Insights from a customer survey conducted by Leica indicate that they might have looked into both a full EVF and a hybrid option during the development phase.
New Design and Specifications
LeicaRumors also mentioned that this upcoming camera will showcase an entirely new design, featuring a larger 3.9-inch touchscreen that will take the place of all the buttons on the rear. The new model is expected to be somewhat smaller than the Leica M11 and will swap out the ISO dial for an extra programmable dial. The introduction of an electronic viewfinder could help overcome some limitations of a rangefinder, particularly when trying to focus on subjects closer than 27 inches or while using long telephoto lenses. Additionally, the EVF could simplify the camera’s design, potentially lowering both its cost and maintenance requirements. Nonetheless, in making these changes, Leica could also sacrifice the most crucial and distinctive feature of the M series.
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