Getting executives of major Japanese camera and lens makers to commit to specifics when it comes to forthcoming product releases can be a challenge, but Nikon has confirmed that a new mirrorless flagship is in the offing.

“A new flagship Nikon Z-series mirrorless camera can be expected within the year, and is being developed with the goal of surpassing the D6,” said Keiji Oishi, the Department Manager of Nikon’s Imaging Business Unit, in a recent interview with DP Review.

Nikon’s Keiji Oishi

While specific details were not forthcoming, high-end video features do seem to be on the menu – not surprising when you consider how these are a big selling point in top-of-the-range mirrorless models from Sony and Canon. Oishi added that “we consider 8K to be an important feature, in that the high resolution and high definition required in still photography is also important for video.”

As for recent news stories speculating about Nikon’s future in the camera and lens business, fuelled by the company’s recent financial results, Oishi had the following to say.

“In the last quarter, we reported record mirrorless sales, which was helped by strong performance of the Z7 II and Z6 II. We observed strong sales of new products, both mirrorless cameras and lenses; our shift to models for professionals and hobbyists progressed smoothly.

Nikon’s Z 7II – you ain’t seen nothing yet, apparently

The cameras are being reviewed very well, and the customer response has been extremely positive… While the Z7 II and Z6 II are products that soundly reflect the voices of users, and have been well received for addressing points of dissatisfaction users had with the first generation, I understand that there is a call for more excitement and technological advancements. The Z7 II and Z6 II are the forerunners of our second chapter, which continues to unfold.”

Further reading
Nikon shutting two Japanese factories

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