I still have no definitive confirmation that a new full frame fixed lens camera will be announced in 2025. All I know for sure is that Sony executives have stated several times that development of the RX line is not yet complete. And given the hype around compact cameras, I think there’s a good chance that Sony will release a new RX camera in 2025.

Based on Sony’s trends, advancements in camera technology, and market competition, here’s a speculative guess at what a potential Sony RX1R III might bring if announced in 2025:

Sony RX1R III – Predicted Features and Specs

Sensor and Image Quality
• Sensor: A 61MP full-frame BSI CMOS sensor, possibly derived from the Sony A7R V, offering outstanding detail and dynamic range.
• Processor: Next-generation BIONZ XR+ processor for faster performance and improved image quality.
• Dynamic Range: Expanded dynamic range, potentially up to 15 stops, for better shadow and highlight detail.

Lens
• Fixed Lens: Likely to retain a 35mm f/2 Zeiss Sonnar T lens*, praised for its sharpness and beautiful rendering.
• Improved lens design with better edge-to-edge sharpness and reduced chromatic aberration, potentially incorporating new lens coatings for better flare resistance.

Autofocus
• Autofocus System: Advanced hybrid autofocus with phase-detection points covering 90-95% of the frame, similar to Sony’s recent mirrorless cameras.
• Enhanced real-time Eye AF and Subject Recognition for humans, animals, and vehicles.
• Low-Light Performance: Autofocus capable of operating in even lower light conditions (down to -6 EV).

Body and Design
• Compact Form Factor: Slightly smaller and lighter than the RX1R II, maintaining its hallmark portability.
• Build Quality: Weather-sealed magnesium alloy body for professional durability.
• Improved grip ergonomics and button layout for easier handling.
• EVF: Pop-up 3.69M-dot OLED electronic viewfinder with faster refresh rates and higher magnification.
• LCD: Fully articulating 3-inch 2.1M-dot touchscreen, ideal for vlogging, waist-level shooting, and selfies.

Video Capabilities
• Video Resolution: 4K video at 60p and 120p with 10-bit 4:2:2 internal recording.
• HDR Support: HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma) and S-Log3 profiles for professional video grading.
• AI-Assisted Features: Enhanced stabilization and subject tracking powered by AI, adapted from the ZV-E1.

Connectivity
• Ports: USB-C with Power Delivery, 3.5mm mic and headphone jacks.
• Wireless: Improved Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 for faster file transfers and remote operation.
• Tethering: Expanded tethering options for studio work via wired or wireless connections.

Battery Life
• Likely to use the NP-FZ100 battery for significantly improved battery life, potentially supporting over 450 shots per charge.

Storage
• Dual Slots: Inclusion of dual card slots (CFexpress Type A and SD UHS-II), ensuring faster read/write speeds.
• Larger internal storage buffer for rapid continuous shooting.

Other Features
• IBIS (In-Body Image Stabilization): A compact 5-axis stabilization system to complement the fixed lens.
• Pixel Shift Multi Shooting: For creating ultra-high-resolution images by combining multiple shots.
• Improved ISO Performance: Native ISO range of 100–64,000, expandable to 50–204,800.

Software Enhancements
• AI-Based Autofocus Improvements: Enhanced tracking and recognition through AI algorithms.
• Post-Processing Options: Real-time LUT application for color grading.
• Advanced menu system similar to the Sony A7R V, with touch functionality and better organization.

Price and Target Audience
The RX1R III would likely aim at the premium compact camera market, targeting enthusiasts and professionals who value portability and uncompromised image quality. It may be priced around $3,499–$3,999, reflecting its flagship status and niche appeal.

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This is pure speculation…but would that be a camera that could repeat the success of the Leica Q3 and Fujifilm X100VI?

Valoi has announced the new Easy120. In this video you can see how they use a Sony camera with the new Tamron 90mm macro lens to scan medium format film. I own two Mamiya 7 cameras and a Pentax 67, which I still use fairly regularly. The only downside to this system is that I have to spend money on the Tamron. It’s an excellent lens, but I don’t usually shoot macro. Still, I think for all medium format film shooters out there this might be an interesting setup!

This is how you setup the system:

Nextorage has announced the new 4.0 generation Type A cards. They are now available for reorder at Amazon:

• 1024GB card for $538 at Amazon
• 512GB card for $225 at Amazon
• New 4.0 Type A card reader for $119 at Amazon

None of the current Sony cameras support speed 4.0, yet it makes a lot of sense to buy them because:

• Futureproof: They are backwards compatible (work with your Sony camera) and will also work with future Sony cameras with 4.0 support if you ever decide to upgrade.
• Faster workflow: If you use the card reader to transfer your data to your computer, you only need half the time!

Reminder: The 2.0 generation cards have a 25% discount for prime members on Amazon US (Click here):

VPG 400 class (minimum fo 400MB/s the card can write continuously). 

• $125 off on the Nextorage 640GB
• $60 off on the Nextorage 320GB
• $50 off on the Nextorage 160GB

VPG 200 class (minimum fo 200MB/s the card can write continuously).

• $40 off on the Nextorage 480GB

SD cards:

• $90 off on the 256GB V90 dual pack SD cards
• $30 off on the 64GB V90 dual pack SD cards

This week, Johnnie and Nino dare a long, hard look into the crystal ball to speculate and ponder about the cameras and lenses that they expect to be released in 2025. What are the big news we expect from Blackmagic Design, Canon, DJI, FUJIFILM, Nikon/RED, Panasonic, Sigma, and Sony?

Lexar announced the launch of an ‘indestructible’ SD card made entirely of stainless steel. Something like the Cybertruck of SD cards :)

The ARMOR GOLD SD Card with a stainless-steel construction that is 37x stronger than typical SD cards, it is designed to withstand grueling usage out in the wild while offering up to 210MB/s^[1] write speed and Video Speed Class 60 (V60) to seamlessly capture 6K footage.

There is yet no info about when those cards will be available to market.

Additional note: Lots of Lexar gear has big discounts on their Amazon page (Click here) and at BHphoto.