Today, Nikon has announced that its forthcoming flagship, the Nikon D6, is delayed as a result of delays in the procurement of parts and components from a third-party due to Coronavirus (COVID-19) manufacturing complications.

The D6: Nikon’s flagship is delayed due to Coronavirus (COVID-19)

The Nikon D6 is the successor of the four-year-old D5. Both of them are analog to the Canon’s 1D series, which means there are powerful still camera that own impressive video capabilities. Basically, the D6 is Nikon’s answer to the new Canon 1D X Mark III. Furthermore, both cameras share the same price point ($6,500). Nikon planned to ship the D6 in March 2020, to be available for the Olympics Games. However, things have changed as the Coronavirus acts as force majeure in this delicate situation.

That is Nikon’s press release from today: “As a result of delays in the procurement of parts and components from a third-party cooperating company due to measures implemented in response to the spread of COVID-19, the release of the new Nikon D6 digital SLR camera, originally planned for March 2020, will be delayed. We sincerely apologize to our customers and all those concerned for any inconvenience this may cause. We are now planning to release the Nikon D6 in May 2020 and will announce the new release date once it has been determined. We will continue to closely monitor the situation and do our utmost to deliver this new camera as soon as possible. Thank you for your understanding and patience in this matter”.

As a result of delays in the procurement of parts and components from a third-party cooperating company due to measures implemented in response to the spread of COVID-19, the release of the new Nikon D6 digital SLR camera, originally planned for March 2020, will be delayed

Nikon

The Nikon D6 can be preordered from the B&H website. 

Canon’s complications due to COVID-19

Canon also is being affected by supply issues as a result of the Coronavirus uncertain situation and difficulties regarding production. Canon has announced that it will be temporarily closing five of its factories due to supply shortages caused by the COVID-19 Coronavirus outbreak.

Canon has announced that it will be temporarily closing five of its factories due to supply shortages caused by the COVID-19 Coronavirus outbreak

NAB Show 2020 remains uncertain

The big question is if the major conference of the industry will be canceled due to Coronavirus panic. Till today, the following companies have skipped the show a result of COVID-19 outbreak: AJA Video Systems, Nikon, Fox, TVU Networks, and Zaxcom. According to today, the 2020 NAB Show is proceeding as planned. However, it might be changed as more and more Coronavirus cases are confirmed in Nevada. It worths noting that the SXSW, which is the annual tech, music, and film meet-up held in downtown Austin canceled. The SXSW is the latest major conference to be canceled due to the coronavirus outbreak. We’ll update you regarding the situation of the upcoming NAB Show.

According to today, the 2020 NAB Show is proceeding as planned

What’s next?

That is the question nobody can answer. Most probably, there will be issues regarding the production of new releases of cameras. Let’s see if it will affect the release of the anticipated RED Komodo. Finally, let’s hope that this panic will be vanished quickly and surely.