Panasonic manager confesses: Compact fixed lens camera business is “going down”

Say goodby to the LX100 line :(

In an interview released by Imaging Resource Panasonic admitted the fixed lens camera business is no more:

“this category is affected by the smartphone’s expansion. But still, there are people who continue to use this model. But we have to admit that this category will be going down. And so as a camera business, we have to decide the priority of the development resources, which category is the most important. We have to study for the future.”

They also said this about their system cameras:

  1. Micro Four Thirds will focus on hybrid shooters and telephoto segment
  2. They want L-mount to become the main platform for video shooters (and dethrone PL-mount)

It ain’t going to be easy. Canon and Sony are pushing hard in the video orld too!

JIP may kill the entry level mIcro Four Thirds products line in favour of high end OMD and PEN

43rumors got the following info from an Olympus source:

I have recently been told by a Olympus representative that JIP is most likely to continue developing the PRO segment of their MFT system, and possibly there will be a re-branding without the Olympus name. It is also likely that they will discontinue the volume cameras, such as the E-PL series. Non of this is officially confirmed, but it is said that they are working on a press release that will be released within approximately one month from today.

to me it makes sense to focus on high end only. There is no way to make money with uninteresting $500 PEN cameras.

LEAKED press text: Panasonic S5 will cost $1999

The Panasonic S5 will be priced at$1997.99 and $2297.99 with the kit lens. ISO sensitivity is 50, to 102400 with an extended ISO of 204800.

Leaked press text:

LUMIX S5 full-frame mirrorless camera is designed especially for content creators. Latest advances in image resolution, image stabilization, and autofocus all in this compact camera that is the signature of LUMIX.
Experience extraordinary video recording in 4K 60p, 4:2:2 10-bit. It also offers a Full HD 180fps Slow Motion option as well as 4:3 Anamorphic support. This is what makes S5 perfect for use when talking still photos or as a vlog camera.L-rumors

With 24.2MP 35mm full-frame CMOS sensor, the LUMIX S5 boasts a wide dynamic range and high sensitivity performance. The adopted Dual Native ISO technology enables the LUMIX S5 to record maximum ISO 51200 crystal-clear high sensitivity video. Dual Native ISO minimizes noise in high sensitivity. V-Log/V-Gamut compatibility offers a 14+ stop dynamic range to sensitivity. V-Log/V-Gamut compatibility offers a 14+ stop dynamic range to capture every detail.

The improved autofocus detects head as well as eyes, face and body. The powerful Dual Image Stabilization with 5-axis enables 6.5-stop slower shutter speed.

The compact nature of the S5 is one of the signature features of the LUMIX series. To make sure that your camera withstands tough field use, the S5 comes with a dust and splash resistant construction. Optimized heat dispersion ensures a stable, continuous video recording without interruption.

One of the expanded features of LUMIX S5 is the Live View Composite mode which instantly creates a stunning image out of several live shots; the shutter releases at designated intervals of exposure time to merge the bright parts into a single image. Useful for shooting fireworks or a starry sky.

via Nokishita