Leica on the future of the M-System (PK 2010 Meeting )

Here's the translation of a few salient points:

Re Kompaktkameras - compact cameras

Development is focusing on the successor of the X1. The cooperation with Panasonic is set to continue.

The large echo in the media to the announcement of Fuji's X100 proves that the X1 has set the right trend. Currently, the X100 is an early prototype, whose specifications aren't final yet. Dr. Kaufmann views the X100 as 'publicity for the X1'.

Re X1 hyperfocal mode

Leica is planning a new X1 firmware which is to be released at the end of 2010, featuring a function similar to hyperfocal mode.

Further topics touched
  • The R system - no digital solution planned; the DMR - problems with a spares manufacturer/subcontractor; S system - 120mm lens presented @ Photokina, plans for additional S series lenses (24mm, 30mm superwide w/ optional leaf shutter and 30-90mm zoom, no decision yet on a tilt/shift lens)
  • Role of M9Ti: 'concept car' camera, no AF confirmation tool in the works because the 2 frames/s readout speed of the CCD sensor would make this impractical; electronicalm function would only be possible using a CMOS sensor which could possibly be used in future camera generations.
  • Demand for M9 chrome: M9 success surpasses expectations, results in increased demand for lenses.
  • Lens delivery situation: Lens production cannot be scaled up easily, resulting in delivery times in excess of 6 months for some lenses w/ exotic glass types.
 
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... and they say they are in the process of evaluating whether a chrome M9 does make sense financially. Which goes well with their other statements :rolleyes:

Is a Silver chrome version planned?
No, this is not planned. Silver lenses match the control elements on the steel gray version.
Click to expand...

Thanks for posting the link. I think with each of their statements relating to future products, you have to add the phrase ... in the next month, or so :D

Ivo
 
The silver chrome M9 is not a question of aesthetics. For me it is about durability of the finish. Are they evaluating it? It is just an alternative finish!
 
Nemo said:
The silver chrome M9 is not a question of aesthetics. For me it is about durability of the finish. Are they evaluating it? It is just an alternative finish!
Click to expand...

[...] derzeit wird ausgewertet, ob eine Produktion lohnend wäre.
Click to expand...
That's what they said in the press conference. Wouldn't hold my breath, though.

Cheers
Ivo
 
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