Tag: Micro Four Thirds

March 15, 2025
OM System Targets Smartphones with Advanced Computational Photography
Key Takeaways
1. OM System is focusing on computational photography to enhance creative expression, even with lower-resolution sensors.
2. The new OM System OM-1 II and OM-3 models feature advanced computational photography tools like handheld high-resolution mode and a software ND filter.
3. OM System believes their innovations complement Micro Four Thirds sensors and challenge the notion that higher megapixels always mean better quality.
4. Increased megapixels necessitate more powerful processing engines to handle computational tasks effectively.
5. OM System may revive the Pen camera series, incorporating computational photography features into future models.
Micro Four Thirds has long been a hotspot for new ideas, consistently providing advanced photography and videography capabilities at a lower price than full-frame and APS-C models. OM System appears eager to bring this trend back, emphasizing computational photography as the next big thing.
Focus on Computational Photography
In a recent chat with PetaPixel, leaders at OM System expressed their commitment to focusing on computational photography, even if that means using sensors with lower resolutions. The aim is not to simply replace pixel count but to enable users to fully express their creative ideas through the camera.
Innovative Features in New Models
The newly launched OM System OM-1 II and OM-3 (currently priced at $1,999.99 on Amazon) come packed with various clever computational photography features. These include a handheld high-resolution mode and a software ND filter that employs bracketing techniques similar to those found in top smartphone cameras, merging multiple exposures into a single image.
OM System clarifies that these innovations are not about making up for the lower resolution of Micro Four Thirds sensors. They claim that by combining computational photography capabilities with these sensors, the cameras can operate more swiftly and “serve complementary roles, empowering users to truly realize their creative vision using the camera.” This approach stands in contrast to the ongoing marketing battle in the camera industry, which often leads consumers to think that higher megapixels are always superior. This trend mirrors the smartphone market, where sensors frequently exceed 50 or even 100 MP.
The Need for Speed
Presently, as we increase the megapixels, we also have to ensure our processing engine is much more powerful and faster to handle the computational photography tasks. If the processing speed is inadequate, it won’t meet users’ expectations. Therefore, we would need to create a new engine along with a new sensor.
Most critically, these computational photography capabilities might enable brands like OM System to distinguish themselves among a plethora of retro-style cameras and compete with the user-friendliness of smartphones.
Future Directions for OM System
This “experience-first” approach aligns with recent comments from OM System about possibly reviving the Pen camera series, which utilized the Micro Four Thirds system to create compact cameras without losing essential features. This indicates that OM System will likely incorporate computational photography features in any future Pen cameras they choose to release.
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Tags: Micro Four Thirds, OM System, OM-1 II
March 15, 2025
OM System Addresses PEN Camera Rumors: Hope for M43 Fans
Key Takeaways
1. OM System is considering reviving the Olympus Pen series, but no concrete plans are in place yet.
2. The design of a new Pen camera will depend on the product concept, which is still under development.
3. The Pen series and OM-3 camera serve different purposes, emphasizing beauty and craftsmanship versus authentic creative photography.
4. There is a commitment to maintaining the compact design that made the Pen series popular among enthusiasts.
5. A new Pen camera may take two to three years to reach the market due to its early development stage.
We recently shared news about the possibility of OM System reviving the iconic Olympus Pen series, which is known for its compact design featuring a Micro Four Thirds sensor. The initial information came from an interview at Japan’s CP+ camera exhibition. However, a new interview by DPReview has provided additional clarity regarding what OM System leaders meant when they talked about the future of the Pen camera brand.
Future Plans for the Pen Series
OM System executives have confirmed that they have put considerable thought into refreshing the Pen lineup. However, fans should manage their expectations, as the executives made it clear that a new Pen camera hasn’t even reached the planning stage yet.
They stated, “We believe the design of the camera must align with the product’s concept, which means we don’t finalize the design before establishing the concept: the product concept comes first. Thus, we have not decided if a new Pen design will resemble the Pen-F or the E-P7, as the product concept is still undetermined.”
Distinct Roles for Each Camera
Hiroki Koyama, OM System’s director of product planning, along with Kazuhiro Togashi, the VP for brand strategy and product planning, emphasized that the newly launched OM-3 is not intended to replace the Pen series. They clearly articulated that both types of cameras serve distinct purposes. According to them, the Pen is meant for “ultimate beauty and ultimate craftsmanship,” while the OM-3 focuses on “capturing authentic and great creative photos.”
This distinction is similar to the difference between Fujifilm’s X-Pro and X-T series, which, while sharing capabilities, have different objectives.
“There’s a different philosophy between the OM-3 and Pen-F series,” Koyama explained, adding, “the Pen-F series emphasizes ultimate beauty and craftsmanship, while the OM-3 is all about taking genuine and creatively great photos.”
A Bright Future Ahead
The encouraging news is that OM System intends to launch a new Pen camera at some point in the future. It seems they are committed to maintaining the original compact design that made the Pen series a favorite among enthusiasts.
The two executives also discussed the challenges of the rising power of smartphone cameras. They suggested there remains a significant demand for dedicated cameras among photographers who seek a specific shooting experience and desire better performance than what smartphones can provide.
Since the OM System Pen camera is still in the early development stages, it may take two to three years before we see the compact Micro Four Thirds camera hit the market. During that time, Canon will likely have released several new models based on the PowerShot V1, and other brands, like Panasonic, may have rolled out updated versions of their Lumix GX series. For now, fans of the Micro Four Thirds system and retro-style compact cameras will have to settle for options like the Olympus OM-D E-M10 IV (currently $699.99 on Amazon with a kit lens) and the OM System OM-5 (currently $999.99 on Amazon).
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Tags: Micro Four Thirds, Olympus Pen, OM System
March 11, 2025
OM System Develops New M43 Compact Camera as PEN Series Successor
Key Takeaways
1. OM System is actively developing an upgraded version of the Olympus Pen-F camera, indicating its importance in their product lineup.
2. The new Pen camera will likely continue to utilize the Micro Four Thirds system.
3. OM System aims to appeal to a wide audience, particularly those new to standalone cameras who may currently prefer smartphones.
4. The upcoming Pen camera will compete with compact models like the Canon PowerShot V1, PowerShot V3, and Sony ZV-E10 II, targeting social media users.
5. Potential features may include simpler controls to attract smartphone users, similar to existing models like the Fujifilm X-T50.
Olympus, now known as OM System, has fans of the Micro Four Thirds community eagerly awaiting an upgraded version of the Olympus Pen-F camera. This camera was a pioneer in the compact Micro Four Thirds category. When OM System revealed the OM System OM-3, a compact interchangeable-lens M43 camera with retro design, many believed it would take the place of the Pen F.
Updates on the Pen Camera
However, Kazuhiro Togashi, the Vice President of Brand Planning and Product Strategy at OM System, stated (through PetaPixel) that the company is looking into ways to create an updated Pen camera. PetaPixel also mentioned in the comments section that OM System has confirmed the Pen camera is “in active development.” While this doesn’t clarify a specific release date, it’s certainly positive news for those who appreciate the Pen series.
Togashi shared, “We think the Pen series is a key part of our lineup. We’re examining how successful the Pen series has been, but the OM-3 is not a replacement for the Pen. The Pen series continues to be vital to our offerings, and we are actively thinking about what new Pen model we can provide as OM System.”
Future Directions for the Pen Series
This indicates that any upcoming compact Pen camera will likely still utilize the Micro Four Thirds system. Additional comments from the same interview imply that OM System plans to appeal to a broad audience with the next Pen camera.
“We want to ensure that photographers find joy in using the camera. We’re really looking into what kind of product may be more appealing for new users. Some might still prefer their smartphones, but might have a budding interest in standalone cameras.”
OM System will then be going head-to-head with products like the Canon PowerShot V1, the recently revealed PowerShot V3, and the Sony ZV-E10 II (currently priced at $998 on Amazon). These models target a demographic that focuses on compact cameras for their social media needs. Although it’s still quite early in the process, any camera aimed at this audience will probably need to be priced reasonably — somewhere between $900 and $1,500 — to resonate with most buyers.
Potential Features and Controls
OM System’s remarks about attracting smartphone users hint that they may choose to have simpler controls, similar to the film simulation dial on the Fujifilm X-T50 (currently available for $1,399 at Best Buy).
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Tags: Micro Four Thirds, Olympus Pen-F, OM System
February 5, 2025
OM System OM-3 Leaked Images and Specs Reveal Sharp Design
We’ve been aware for several weeks that the OM System OM-3 is on its way, and the new camera is expected to sit between the OM-1 and OM-5 in terms of features and design. As we approach the launch of this Micro Four Thirds camera, numerous official marketing images and a lot of press release information have surfaced. While we don’t have a complete list of specifications yet, these new leaks offer a glimpse of what we can expect on February 6, the day the OM-3 is set to be released.
Sensor Specifications and Features
One of the most critical parts of the leaked press release (from 43rumors) focuses on the OM-3’s sensor details and its capabilities in computational photography and videos. As anticipated, the OM System OM-3 will come equipped with the same 20.37 MP stacked BSI Live MOS Micro Four Thirds sensor found in the flagship OM-1 II (currently priced at $1,999.99 on Amazon). This sensor works with the TruePic X image processor, suggesting we can expect similar or even improved autofocus performance compared to the OM-1 II.
Computational Photography Capabilities
Moreover, the OM-3 will be equipped with comparable computational photography options, which includes a handheld high-resolution mode, Live ND/GND, Focus Stacking, and Multi Exposure capabilities. These features will be easily accessible via a dedicated control dial and button on the camera, making them useful for smartphone users and social media influencers looking to upgrade from their phones.
Image Stabilisation and Video Specs
The OM-3 will also incorporate 5.5-stop, 5-axis in-body image stabilisation, which can be enhanced to 7.5 stops when paired with a Sync IS compatible lens. The leaks don’t go into great detail about the video specs, but they do mention noteworthy recording times: 30 minutes at 40° C and unlimited recording at 25° C. If these recording durations hold true, the OM-3 could serve as a fantastic all-rounder and video camera for various applications, including wedding photography, YouTube content creation, and travel and wildlife videography.
Design and Color Options
Images that leaked alongside the press release primarily showcase the front of the camera, presenting a distinct retro look that brings to mind the OM-5. However, the OM-3 boasts sleeker lines on its metal panels, and the addition of a color mode dial on the front distinguishes it from the OM-5. While these images only feature the front, a previous leak already revealed the back and control layout of the OM-3. The combination of these leaks also confirms that the camera will be available in both black and silver options.
Pricing and Availability
While the price remains unverified, leaks and speculation suggest it will be around $2,000, placing it just below the standard retail price of the OM-1 II (though the OM-1 II is currently on sale for $1,999.99). The launch date for the OM-3 is set for February 6, with availability expected shortly after the launch.
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Tags: Computational Photography, Micro Four Thirds, OM System OM-3
February 4, 2025
Wild Canon PowerShot V1 Rumored to Feature Micro Four Thirds Sensor
We just shared some buzz about the soon-to-be-released Canon PowerShot V1, rumored to be a tiny compact camera aimed at video enthusiasts and featuring a fixed zoom lens. Initially, we thought this new model would come equipped with a 1-inch sensor, like the iconic Canon PowerShot G7 X III, which is pretty common for compact cams. But now, fresh whispers suggest that the PowerShot V1 might actually utilize a Micro Four Thirds sensor instead.
Sensor Details
According to 43addict, the Canon PowerShot V1 is expected to sport a 24 MP Micro Four Thirds sensor. It’s not entirely clear if this is about the effective sensor size or the actual sensor size, but if it is the effective size, it could mean it shares the same sensor as the $1,519.99 Panasonic Lumix G9 II. Just because it uses a Micro Four Thirds sensor doesn’t mean Canon will adopt the lens mount, though. There’s a good chance that Canon will maintain a compact design similar to the Canon PowerShot G7 X III, opting for a fixed lens like that found on the Panasonic Lumix LX100 II (currently priced at $1,199 on Amazon) or the Leica D-Lux 8.
Canon’s New Direction
This rumor is a bit surprising since it would mark Canon’s debut in the Micro Four Thirds sensor space, but it’s not outside the realm of possibility. The larger sensor could offer benefits that align with their intended audience. The Lumix LX100 II, along with its Leica counterpart, slightly crops the Micro Four Thirds sensor to keep a smaller design. While this might not be ideal for light gathering, it does open up the unique Multi-Aspect feature.
For users who are into social media, which is the main audience for cameras like the PowerShot V1, the Multi-Aspect feature would let them take full advantage of the sensor and lens to capture shots in various aspect ratios without needing to digitally crop. Canon has also mentioned in a recent investor call that they are refocusing on the compact camera market due to the rising popularity of these types of cameras among social media influencers.
Conclusion
So, while the details surrounding the Canon PowerShot V1 are still speculative, there’s a lot of interest in how this camera could reshape the compact camera landscape. As the market continues to evolve, it’s clear that Canon is paying close attention to what users want, especially in the realm of social media.
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Tags: Canon PowerShot V1, Micro Four Thirds, Panasonic Lumix G9 II
January 31, 2025
OM System OM-3 Leaked Impressions: Retro M43 Camera Updates
The OM System OM-3 is set to be released on February 6, and there’s been a fair amount of buzz around it. OM System hasn’t really tried to keep the retro-styled camera a secret. Early leaks have confirmed the launch date and a few basic details, while OM System itself has revealed most of the throwback design in a recent promotional video.
Insights from Early Testers
Recently, some early testers, including influencers, have shared their opinions with 43rumors about the OM-3. While the general feedback is mostly positive, there are a few concerning details that came to light. One tester indicated, “It has some minor new features over the OM-1II…so there are improvements especially in autofocus.”
Another tester mentioned that the OM-3 will be larger than the OM-5 (currently priced at $999.99 on Amazon), but it still remains lightweight. This implies that it will likely be positioned between the OM-1 II (currently $2,399.99 on Amazon) and the OM-5, which could suggest better battery life.
User Reactions on Design
“Yeah, it’s bigger than the OM-5 but it still feels light… What’s surprising are the colours and filters…like them more than the Fuji!” However, not everything is good news. One early reviewer pointed out that the hopes for a ~$1,500 flagship Micro Four Thirds camera with retro design might be unrealistic.
“The beautiful OM-3 contains all the last and the best technology currently available from OM System. But technology and high construction quality have a price, it is better to accept it (so start putting some money aside).”
Price Expectations
There has been confusion regarding the pricing, with some sources suggesting it might be around $1,500 while others hinted at a cost of $2,000 or more. It now appears that the higher estimate might be correct, indicating that the OM-3 could be more than double the price of the OM-5, which is OM System’s more affordable option with similar retro aesthetics.
The news about enhanced autofocus should be welcomed, especially since AF performance has been a weak spot for the M4/3 system overall. It also seems probable that the OM-3 will feature comparable computational photography capabilities as the OM-1 II, making it a compelling choice for those transitioning from smartphones.
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Tags: autofocus improvements, Micro Four Thirds, OM System OM-3
January 25, 2025
New OM System OM-3 MFT Camera Leak: Pricing and Images Inside
OM System has officially announced that a new product will be revealed on February 6. It is highly likely that this will be the much-rumored OM System OM-3, a Micro Four Thirds camera designed with a retro look and analog controls, all housed in a sturdy metal body.
Pricing Expectations
Earlier speculations suggested that the new camera might be priced around $1,500. However, fresh leaks from prominent camera insider Andrea Pizzini suggest that the OM-3 may actually debut at a price closer to $2,000. There remains a chance that a version of the OM-3 could still be available at the initially rumored price of $1,500, with the $2,000 tag potentially indicating a lens kit.
Lens Updates Coming Soon
OM System has also announced plans to release two new lenses in 2025, which means the OM-3 might be launched alongside one of those lenses. It seems improbable that the OM-3, which is categorized below the OM-1 II in the lineup, would be priced less than $400 lower than the flagship model, which is currently priced at $2,399.99 on Amazon.
Leaked Footage and Insights
Pizzini’s price leak comes with additional authentic images and videos showing the OM-3 held by what looks like influencers or test photographers. The leaked footage shows the OM-3 in a snowy environment, hinting that it could have some weather sealing, which would justify the higher price. Meanwhile, the OM System OM-5, which also has weather sealing, is priced at a more accessible $999.99 on Amazon. It’s uncertain, but it seems unlikely that OM System would create such a big price gap between the mid-range OM-5 and the premium OM-1 II, especially considering the mid-range’s success with Fujifilm.
A Sneak Peek from OM System
The latest leaked video includes a subtle reveal from OM System itself on a YouTube channel, giving viewers a glimpse of the OM-3’s rear design. About two seconds into the video, the OM-3 can be spotted on a table with other photography equipment. Initially, it appears to resemble the OM System OM-5, but the top control layout next to the EVF prism is noticeably different. The retro metal design continues to the back of the camera, although there is a sizable articulating touchscreen located just below the centrally positioned EVF. The right back panel seems to have a small grip lip, which is also reminiscent of the OM-5. It might be reasonable for OM System to incorporate some components from the OM-5 into the OM-3, as doing so could significantly reduce manufacturing costs.
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Tags: camera pricing, Micro Four Thirds, OM System OM-3
January 24, 2025
OM System Announces February Launch of OM-3 Retro M43 Camera
The OM System OM-3 has recently been revealed as a retro-themed Micro Four Thirds camera expected to release sometime in 2025. Initial rumors suggested a launch around the end of February, but the official teaser from OM Systems on YouTube indicates that the OM-3 will actually be unveiled on February 6.
Teaser Details
Although this release date comes sooner than anticipated, it remains uncertain what the teaser event will fully involve—whether it will solely be a reveal or a complete launch. However, the new teaser video does provide some insightful information. Notably, the OM System OM-3, which is not its confirmed name but a designation from leaks, will bring back the color dial seen in the Olympus Pen F from 2016.
Features and Pricing
The inclusion of this color dial seems to be OM System’s way of appealing to beginners, similar to the film simulation dial found on cameras like the Fujifilm X-T50 and X-M5. The leaked price of about $1,500 hints that, even with the same internal components as the flagship OM-1 II (priced at $2,399.99 on Amazon), the OM-3 will directly compete with Fujifilm’s mid-range models.
From other shots of the camera body, we can observe that it offers a variety of analog controls, which is a nice feature, especially for a retro-designed camera, and it has what looks like a hot shoe for flashes or other accessories. This is what users would expect from a premium camera body, but it’s reassuring for those who wish to do more than just casual street photography.
Size and Competition
The final shot of the teaser video also provides insight into the size of the OM-3, confirming that it will maintain a compact design. This will likely be a refreshing change compared to other recent Micro Four Thirds releases, like the Panasonic Lumix GH7, which is almost the same size as several full-frame and APS-C cameras, undermining the advantages of the smaller sensor and lens system.
Given the reasonable pricing of small, lightweight Micro Four Thirds lenses and the impressive image quality offered by the current OM-1 II, the OM-3 might even challenge the compact Fujifilm X100VI in the street photography market.
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Tags: Fujifilm X-T50, Micro Four Thirds, OM System OM-3
January 21, 2025
Sony A7 V Full-Frame Camera Leak: 4K 120fps Launch in 2025?
2025 is shaping up to be quite an eventful year for camera releases. OM System seems to be ready to introduce a new Micro Four Thirds camera with a retro design at the beginning of the year. Following that, the much-anticipated Sony A7 V is expected to make its debut soon after the OM-3. A series of leaks and rumors, including an official listing from Indonesia (as reported by Photorumors), have revealed several details regarding the upcoming A7 V.
Certification Confirms Arrival
The Indonesian registration pretty much confirms that the A7 V will be launched within the next few months, at least by 2025. The model number noted on the site is WW277226, which aligns closely with existing cameras in the A7 series, such as the A7R IV and A7C R, both of which were released not long ago and won’t be getting updates this year. This leaves the A7S IV and A7 V as the only options left. Given the speculation that Sony has discontinued the A7S series in favor of more specialized video cameras, it seems that the A7 V is the most probable candidate for release.
Leaks Provide Insights
While the regulatory details don’t reveal much about the A7 V, leaks from sources like Andrea Pizzini and Sony Alpha Rumors give us a clearer view of what to expect from this new full-frame hybrid camera.
It appears that the A7 V is set to launch between March and April, with a March reveal looking more likely. Speculation suggests that the A7 V will boast a quicker 44 MP full-frame sensor and enhanced AI features compared to its predecessor. Many of these AI improvements are anticipated to enhance autofocus and tracking, which is a common highlight of Sony cameras. Additionally, video capabilities are expected to be upgraded, including 4K recording at 120 fps. The reported price is likely to be around $2,499, which is similar to the current cost of the Sony A7 IV (now discounted to $2,198 on Amazon).
A Competitive Landscape
Other than that, not much else has leaked about the Sony A7 V, and what has surfaced is not guaranteed, as is often the case. However, it seems that various camera manufacturers are preparing for new launches, which will certainly make 2025 an exciting year for photography enthusiasts, as the competition is expected to be fiercer than before.
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Tags: camera launch 2025, Micro Four Thirds, Sony A7 V
January 21, 2025
OM System OM-3 Leaks: OM-1 Internals, Retro Design, Mid-Range Price
Last week, we talked about the OM System OM-3, a retro-style Micro Four Thirds camera that’s expected to be compact and come out in 2025. Now, fresh rumors from 43addict seem to confirm the specs and the release date for this new M4/3 camera.
Expected Features
As per the rumors, which match our earlier guesses, the OM System OM-3 will use the same 20.4 MP M4/3 sensor found in the OM-1 (curr. $1,399.99 on Amazon) and the OM-1 II (curr. $2,399.99 on Amazon). It’s not yet clear if the new camera will include the AI features present in the OM-1 II, but the hardware from the OM-1 is certainly top-tier.
Pricing and Launch
In terms of cost, the OM-3 is likely to be priced around $1,500, which is a good bit lower than the OM-1 II and about the same as the OM-1’s frequent price. Sources also hint that the official unveiling might take place during Japan’s CP+ camera show, scheduled from February 27 to March 2.
Potential Impact
The OM System OM-3 is rumored to take inspiration from Fujifilm and Panasonic, featuring special color modes for video. This is akin to the film simulations found in Fujifilm models and the LUT Library option in the Panasonic Lumix S9.
A Micro Four Thirds camera packed with high-end features at a reasonable, yet still slightly elevated, price could be precisely what the system needs to revive it after a lengthy period of inactivity. The features of the OM-3, as we’ve learned so far, may also position it as an excellent hybrid camera suitable for both photography and video tasks, and its compact design could greatly appeal to the M4/3 community.
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Tags: camera release 2025, Micro Four Thirds, OM System OM-3