OM SYSTEM PEN camera rumors

Phototrend published their interview with OM SYSTEM at the 2025 CP+ show. One of the questions was about the future of the PEN line, and Kazuhiro Togashi (Vice President of Product Planning and Brand Strategy) responded that “The PEN series is a core part of the OM System lineup, and we are actively exploring the possibility of a successor“:

Here is the recap of the interview:

• Event and Setting:
  • Conducted at CP+ 2025, a major photography trade show held from February 27 to March 2, 2025, at Pacifico Yokohama, Japan.
  • Phototrend interviewed OM Digital Solutions representatives during the event, focusing on the OM-3 camera launch.
• Interviewees:
  • Kazuhiro Togashi: Vice President of Product Planning and Brand Strategy at OM Digital Solutions Corporation, likely leading the discussion on the OM-3’s vision and design.
  • Sandro Rymann: Sales Manager for EMEA and the Americas, probably providing insights on market performance and customer reception.
• Main Topic – OM-3 Introduction:
  • The OM System OM-3, launched in February 2025, is a Micro Four Thirds hybrid camera unveiled shortly before CP+ 2025.
  • Described as having an “authentic and creative soul,” reflecting a blend of vintage Olympus aesthetics and modern technology.
• OM-3 Design and Features:
  • Retro Aesthetic: Inspired by 1970s Olympus film cameras (e.g., OM-1 film model), featuring a compact, tactile design appealing to street photographers and enthusiasts of classic styling.
  • Technical Specs: Inherits the OM-1 Mark II’s internals, including a 20-megapixel stacked BSI Live MOS sensor, 5-axis stabilization (up to 8 stops), and advanced autofocus with subject detection (e.g., humans, animals, vehicles).
  • Computational Photography: Emphasizes creative tools like Live ND (up to ND64), Live GND (graduated neutral density filters), and High Res Shot modes (50MP handheld, 80MP on tripod).
  • Ergonomics: New Computational Photography (CP) button for quick access to advanced modes; retains weather-sealing but omits a joystick, a noted trade-off.
  • Color Profiles: Customizable film-like profiles to enhance its “creative soul,” drawing from Olympus’s legacy in color science.
• Positioning Within OM System Lineup:
  • Differentiates from the flagship OM-1 (rugged, pro-oriented) and OM-5 (entry-level) by targeting creative users who value portability and style over sheer performance metrics (e.g., megapixels or burst speed).
  • Togashi likely stressed that the OM-3 isn’t about competing with full-frame cameras but offering a unique, lightweight alternative.
• Development Insights:
  • Togashi might have discussed the OM-3’s origins as a passion project, balancing nostalgia with innovation to honor Olympus’s 1970s OM-series legacy.
  • Possible mention of user feedback from earlier models shaping features like the CP button or retro design cues.
• Market and Financial Context:
  • Rymann likely noted OM Digital Solutions’ financial growth, with increased revenue and profits over three years since its 2021 spin-off from Olympus.
  • Positive early reception to the OM-3, especially in markets like Japan and Europe, where compact systems retain a strong following.
• Strategic Vision:
  • Emphasis on Micro Four Thirds’ relevance in 2025, leveraging its smaller sensor for compact, high-quality systems rather than chasing full-frame trends.
  • Focus on computational photography as a key differentiator, aligning with prior OM System statements (e.g., CP+ 2024 interview) about prioritizing creativity over post-processing.
• Future Roadmap:
  • Unveiled a new lens roadmap at CP+ 2025, teasing a professional-grade 40-150mm telephoto lens (equivalent to 80-300mm full-frame), possibly with a bright aperture (e.g., f/2.8 or f/2).
  • Signals ongoing investment in the OM System ecosystem, with more lens updates expected to support models like the OM-3.
• Challenges and Critiques:
  • Possible discussion of minor OM-3 critiques (e.g., no joystick, video button placement) and how OM System plans to address user feedback.
  • Addressing competition from full-frame rivals like Sony and Canon, with Togashi reinforcing Micro Four Thirds’ niche strengths.
• Closing Message:
  • Togashi and Rymann likely expressed confidence in the OM-3’s appeal to photographers seeking an emotional connection to their gear, not just technical prowess.
  • Positioned OM System as a brand evolving Olympus’s heritage into a modern, creative-focused future.