Nikon has indicated a new professional mirrorless camera (8K?) to be launched in 2021. The hint was revealed by Mr. Satoshi Yamazaki, General Manager, 2nd Development Department at Nikon Optical Headquarters, during the “Senior Engineers Panel Discussion” held by CP + 2021 Online.

Nikon’s R&D is getting boosted to allow 8K resolution

In February, we’ve reported on a new stacked CMOS image sensor developed by Nikon, that is capable of shooting 4K at 1000 FPS (Frame Per Second). Yesterday, Nikon published an English version of this announcement that was presented at ISSCC (International Solid-State Circuits Conference) 2021. In the announcement, Nikon states that: “As an optical instrument manufacturer, Nikon is also engaged in research and development of cutting-edge image sensor technology. These efforts build upon Nikon’s optical technology, precision measurement/manufacturing technology, and material technology”. Explore one of the slides below that shows a scheme (taken from Nikon’s announcement) regarding Nikon’s roadmap to 8K image acquisition.

CP+ 2021 Senior Engineers Panel Discussion

At the “Senior Engineers Panel Discussion” held by CP + 2021 Online, Mr. Satoshi Yamazaki, General Manager, 2nd Development Department, Nikon Optical Headquarters, indicates the plan to release many new products this year (2021). These are his words (Google translated): “We are still getting challenged on the development of mirrorless cameras. Among them, the Z mount system is considered to be a system with great potential for new creation. Taking advantage of this mounting system, we would like to evolve the body and lens and develop products that will impress our customers. As such, we plan to release many new products this year, and want you to look forward to it”. Check out the video of the discussion panel below (in Japanese):

New 8K flagship?

Since the “Z 7 II” and “Z 6 II” have just been released, the possibility of successors is low this year. However, on the other hand, Nikon needs to keep it up, as Sony and Canon are booming with their mirrorless. Thus, most probably we’ll see the rumored Z9 being released at the end of the year. The Z9 is expected to be armed with a 45MP- 60MP sensor, that can output 8K at 30P, and 4K at 120P. Also, the rumors indicate on new EXPEED processor designed for 8K acquisition, improved AF, and more goodies for filmmakers. The estimated price is $6,000- $7,000. We’ll continue to keep you posted about this, so stay tuned.