Another Panasonic CP+ interview: “we will develop and evolve the latest technologies common to both systems (L-mount and MFT)”

• 9 hours ago

Here is the recap of the OM SYSTEM interview at the 2025 CP+ show with Phototrend:

Q: In terms of investment and R&D, what share does Micro 4:3 represent today compared to full-frame? Is there still a long-term place for small sensors?

A: Our core strategy is to meet the diverse needs of creators with two mounts: full-frame and micro 4:3, each with distinct features. From an R&D and investment perspective, we will develop and evolve the latest technologies common to both systems, with the exception of the image sensor. We want to improve the development of both systems in the long term, offering full format for those looking for great expressiveness and 4:3″ for those looking for mobility and speed.

• Event and Interviewee: The interview took place at CP+ 2025 with Toshiyuki Tsumura, Executive Vice President and Director of Panasonic’s Imaging Business Unit.
• Panasonic’s Strategy for Videographers: Focused on supporting hybrid creators who work with both video and still images, with an emphasis on the full-frame range, including the upcoming S1R II and new Lumix optics.
• Product Releases: Last year, Panasonic launched the L-mount compact zoom lenses 28-200mm F4-7.1 and 100mm F2.8 Macro, which were well-received by hybrid creators for their balance of performance and size.
• Future Product Goals: Panasonic aims to continue developing compact and lightweight systems, prioritizing the best balance between performance and portability.
• Industry Trends: According to CIPA, global camera shipments in 2024 increased by 116% in value year-on-year, reflecting a thriving industry driven by demand for high-quality video and stills on social media.
• Compact Camera Plans: Panasonic introduced two lens-integrated compact cameras last year, the FZ82D (super telephoto zoom) and TZ99 (high magnification zoom), and plans to further explore user needs in this category.
• L-Mount Alliance: Leica, Panasonic, and Sigma are considering welcoming new members to the L-Mount Alliance, which could expand options for hybrid creators.
• Market Performance in France: Full-frame mirrorless cameras are leading in France, where Lumix has a strong market share and brand image, attributed to its history of launching innovative, high-quality products.
• Target Audience: Panasonic targets three types of hybrid creators: individual creators, professionals, and those in the fusion area of professional and amateur work (e.g., live streaming, professional video production).
• Technological Development: Continued investment in R&D to improve subject recognition and tracking, with the S1R II featuring AI-powered eye recognition and enhanced autofocus for fast-paced scenes like sports.
• System Development: Panasonic is working on both full-frame and Micro 4/3 systems, with full-frame catering to those seeking expressiveness and Micro 4/3 focusing on mobility and speed.
• User Experience Enhancements: Plans to expand scenarios with single lenses via hybrid zoom systems (optical + crop zoom) directly from the camera body, aiming to simplify workflows for creators.

Via Phototrend