We have already discussed the possibility of the Canon EOS R7 Mark II camera with a 40MP stacked BSI CMOS sensor in our previous post. We have already shared the latest leaked core specifications of the upcoming Canon R7 Mark II camera, which provided a strong hint that a 40MP BSI CMOS sensor will be included in the Canon flagship APS-C camera body.
Now, a fresh rumour is coming from the rumour mill, and according to that, the upcoming Canon R7 Mark II camera will use a 39-megapixel APS-C BSI CMOS sensor (with conflicting info on whether it’s stacked), and this rumour was published on CanonRumors.com. It has been mentioned that the sensor is 39 megapixels with BSI tech, but there’s uncertainty around stacking, and the information is coming from a new/unverified source. Canon Rumours has published a detailed report, and here are the specifications below. Note: These specs are unverified and subject to change, as per Canon Rumors.
We do know that camera makers test several prototypes of a camera before announcing their final product. Meanwhile, that’s why in the past, we have already received strong rumours related to a 40MP stacked BSI CMOS sensor. I personally believe Canon will use a stacked CMOS sensor, potentially around 40MP, for the upcoming Canon R7 Mark II camera.
Canon EOS R7 Mark II Price Rumours
No official pricing yet, but leaks suggest around $1,799 body-only—similar to the original R7’s launch price. Kits with RF-S lenses could range from $1,999 to $2,299. This positions it as an affordable pro-APS-C camera, undercutting full-frame models like the EOS R6 Mark III ($2,499).
These are the latest updates we have related to the Canon R7 II as of January 09, 2026. Bookmark this page for updates, and subscribe to TheNewCamera.com for the latest camera news, reviews, and deals.
What do you think of these Canon EOS R7 Mark II rumors? Share in the comments below!
We have two fresh images of the Avata 360 drone, and the best part is that these images reveal a lot about the drone’s functionality, which we will discuss in the latter part of the article. Other than that, we are already providing extensive coverage of the DJI Avata 360 here at TheNewCamera.com, and the price of the DJI Avata 360 has also recentlybeen revealed. Now, what is actually new in the latest leaked images, and what do they actually reveal? So, let’s jump into the details.
The leaked images, posted by trusted leaker Igor Bogdanov (@Quadro_News), leave us with no doubt about their integrity. At the very same time, the first image that we are discussing here, where the DJI RC 2 is active, reveals very fine details, which make us more excited.
The drone is connected to a DJI RC controller (resembling the RC 2) via cable, displaying a live feed. It features a gray cinewhoop-style frame with full spherical propeller guards for safe indoor and proximity flying. Labels indicate DJI branding and an advanced transmission module, likely O4, for enhanced range.
Interestingly, the camera module in the image clearly shows a tiltable camera module, so that one of the lenses points forward. This suggests that the Avata 360 is not only intended as a 360-degree camera drone, but can also be used as a regular FPV drone, similar to the Avata 2. In that scenario, the pilot can simply operate with a forward-facing view during flight, as with existing Avata models. DJI thus potentially combines two use cases in a single platform.
Now, the second image displays the entire kit, where we have the battery charging hub and spare batteries. It looks like someone who purchased a kit of the Avata 360 drone just unboxed it in front and captured the image.
Pricing and Bundles: China Leads, US Follows
Leaks confirm affordable China pricing, with US estimates adding a premium:
DJI Care ~$57. FCC pre-approval ensures US sales despite bans.
Arrival Time
As per the initial set of information, the Avata 360 will arrive in Q1 of 2026
These are the updates we have related to the Avata 360. As soon as we get a confirmed set of core specifications related to the upcoming drone, or any other updates, we will be publishing them here. Stay tuned for future updates.
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The article “DJI Pocket 4 Front View Leaked: Dual Camera Design Exposed” was written by thenewcamera.com team on 10:31 am, Wednesday, 7 January 2026, Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)) | You can also follow us on Our Official Social Media HandlesFACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM to get live news — > DJI Rumors
The DJI Pocket 4 rumors are heating up, as a fresh leak has been dropped. The new image gives us, for the first time, a front view of the upcoming DJI Osmo Pocket 4 camera. The innovative dual camera setup present inside the Pocket 4 is clearly visible, and the design of the camera looks very similar to the DJI Air 3 drone camera.
The information has been shared by reliable leaker @Quadro_News on X (formerly Twitter). The image of the Osmo Pocket 4 camera has been captured from a real-world testing scenario. Possibly, the entire setup and the person testing the camera completely match the previous setup that was leaked earlier, but at that time, only the rear view was available.
In the blurry but revealing photo, a person (face pixelated for privacy) holds the device horizontally, showcasing two prominent camera housings on top. The primary lens sits alongside a secondary module, likely incorporating a wide-angle and telephoto (3x optical zoom) combo based on earlier rumors.
For the super ultra-wide shots, and for 2× and 3× telephoto, we now have a Dual dedicated sensor with improved low-light performance and enhanced zooming capability.
So it’s not normal that such a major design shift has been made from the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 to the Pocket 4. This design shift has been primarily done to improve the low-light performance of the camera, as well as to upgrade the zooming performance of the Pocket series camera.
But the big question is: will the DJI ban affect the Osmo Pocket 4 release in the United States of America? Well, we have already answered this. The Osmo Pocket 4 camera cleared its FCC registration back in November 2025, and since this was done before the December 23 ban, the Pocket 4 is eligible to be sold in the United States of America.
What Does the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 Dual Camera Leak Reveal?
From the image and surrounding rumors:
Dual Camera Configuration: One lens appears standard (wide-angle for everyday shooting), while the other could offer 2x optical zoom (around 40mm equivalent), reducing the need for digital cropping. This setup mirrors advancements in drone cameras like the DJI Air 3S
Design Upgrades: The body looks slimmer and more ergonomic than the Pocket 3, with a bulkier gimbal head for stability. Carbon-fiber-like textures on the camera shafts add a premium feel.
Additional Details: A horizontal bar (possibly a microphone or accessory mount) and a small display or control panel are visible below the cameras. The overall form factor remains pocketable, true to the series’ name.
DJI Osmo Pocket 4 Release Date and Price: Latest Updates
Initially, the DJI Pocket 4 was rumored to arrive on December 18, but yes, the announcement was postponed, and the exact reason stated was a lack of accessories that were supposed to arrive alongside the Osmo Pocket 4 announcement. The next expected announcement window was January, but now it looks like DJI is not in the mood to announce the Pocket 4 even in January. It is now expected to arrive sometime in mid-March, as per the fresh reports we are receiving.
Pricing is speculated to be around $599-$ 699 for the Pocket 4 model—competitive with the Pocket 3’s launch price.
Some of the Previous DJI Rumors and more here
DJI Pocket 4 already clreared the ICC listening and the details that we have already pro related to that registration back in November 2025 ( DJI Pocket 4 Spotted at FCC ID article):
Compared to past leaks on our site, like the unofficial teaser video showing the dual-cam in action, Yes, that was one of the first unofficial teaser videos shared by a reliable source, but at the very same time, in that video too, no front camera view was visible. For the first time, we have seen the front face of the DJI Osmo Pocket camera.DJIO
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The article “DJI Pocket 4 Front View Leaked: Dual Camera Design Exposed” was written by thenewcamera.com team on 10:31 am, Wednesday, 7 January 2026, Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)) | You can also follow us on Our Official Social Media HandlesFACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM to get live news — > DJI Rumors
As Nikon lovers, we are waiting for the Nikon Z9 II camera, but the fresh information coming related to the Z9 Mark II indicates a potential delay in its release date. Originally, the Nikon Z9 II camera development announcement was planned for late 2025 or early 2026, but the announcement may slip even further, not only missing the Olympics, but it may also miss the FIFA World Cup event, which is going to happen in June and July. For sure, we may see some glimpse of the camera in the hands of professionals during the FIFA World Cup, but still the official announcement is likely to happen in the fourth quarter of 2026.
The Nikon Z9, launched in 2021, set a high bar with its stacked CMOS sensor, blackout-free shooting, and pro-grade video capabilities. Its successor, the Z9 II, is expected to build on this foundation, incorporating advancements from Nikon’s recent RED acquisition and improved AI-driven features. However, according to a trusted source, while Nikon has been diligently working on the Z9 II with “bits and pieces of information trickling in,” key components are arriving later than planned. This could push the release beyond initial expectations, with some reports now eyeing a post-March 2026 debut.
Why the Nikon Z9 II Delay?
The Nikon Z9, announced back in 2021, already created a very high bar with the introduction of a stacked sensor and completely blackout-free shooting. Not only that, the Z9 camera also carries pro-grade video capabilities. Now, it is time for the Nikon Z9 Mark II. According to trusted sources, Nikon is working tirelessly on the Z9 Mark II camera, and if you keep this in mind, all the bits of information we are receiving suggest that the announcement date can be pushed beyond our initial expectations.
But what is the exact reason behind this delay, and why the announcement is being rescheduled, is still unclear. Industry whispers suggest that the Z9 II is “still moving forward,” but delays in procuring essential components—such as advanced sensors or processors—have slowed its progress.
According to the inside information we are receiving, the launch has been further delayed due to ongoing technological development. This is all we know so far from theinformation shared by the source.
Impact on 2026 Events: Olympics, World Cup, and Prototype Sightings
Nikon never announces any product in a hurry. They do intensive testing before the launch, and specifically if a major technological upgrade is coming inside a camera, they are going to take as much time as possible to ensure each and everything is working as perfectly as they want it to.
Now that said, we have to keep an eye on the prototypes, specifically during the FIFA World Cup, as that’s the best place for Nikon engineers to collect real-world data, and this is not new. This tactic has been used before, as we have already seen pre-launch Nikon Z9 testing at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
Stay tuned, browse more Nikon Rumors – We will post an update soon as we get it
The article “Nikon Z9 II Rumors: 2026 Release Date Delayed – Will It Miss the Winter Olympics and World Cup?” was written by thenewcamera.com team on 5:02 am, Wednesday, 7 January 2026, Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) | You can also follow us on Our Official Social Media HandlesFACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM > get live news + Nikon Rumors 24X7
Yes, the big question is: Will the DJI ban impact the Pocket 4 release? We are receiving a lot of questions in our mailbox. I decided to post an article related to this, which will clarify all the questions you may have regarding the Pocket 4 release and the recent DJI ban that occurred on December 23, 2025.
The good news is that one of the two models we have seen has already cleared the FCC benchmark test, so it is very clear that at least one Pocket 4 series camera will become available in the United States of America.
We are going to take a deeper dive into the details to help you understand why the next-generation Pocket series camera is still eligible for a 2026 release in the United States of America.
Understanding the DJI Ban: Implications for U.S. Market Access
In short, any Chinese device with wireless transmitting capabilities and the ability to connect to the internet is considered a potential threat for stealing and storing information on remote servers within China or any other country. That is why not only DJI, but many other manufacturers have been badly impacted.
The most concerning part is that no one is yet ready to scrutinise these products to confirm whether they are actually transmitting any kind of data to foreign servers or not. A federal security audit was mandated under the 2025 NDAA but not conducted by the deadline, leading to an automatic blacklist.
The ban has been implemented by accusing DJI and other companies of sharing user data. Specifically, if we talk about DJI, the company has been requesting official scrutiny to verify that its products do not share data with any international servers that could be a potential risk to the United States of America.
However, DJI failed to get that scrutiny, as none of the agencies were ready to examine the products. As a result, the December 23 deadline was reached, the ban was implemented, and now we are in 2026.
People—especially the DJI consumer base in the United States of America—are now confused about what will happen to the DJI product lineup in the future.
Creative Reconstruction of Original Image: Starting from Pocket 4 PRO, Stand Pocket 3, and Pocket 4 Stand
Does the DJI Ban Impact Osmo Pocket 4’s USA Release?
No, the DJI ban does not directly block the Osmo Pocket 4 standard model release in the USA. The big reason is that DJI proactively completed the FCC certification for the upcoming Pocket 4 camera, and with this quick step, they have secured the future Pocket series release in the United States of America.
If you are a Pocket 3 camera owner, don’t worry—the Pocket 4 camera is about to arrive soon. Initially, we expected a late January release, but sources are currently silent, and there is still a possibility that the announcement date may shift to February or mid-March of 2026.
However, since the DJI Pocket 4 has already received FCC approval, after its official announcement, it should become available on Amazon.com within a week or so.
FCC Certification Obtained: The DJI Osmo Pocket 4 received FCC approval in November 2025, before the December 23, 2025, deadline for new restrictions on DJI products.
FCC ID Details: The device’s FCC ID is listed as 2ANDR-OP041 (or variations like 2ANDR-OP04 in some reports), confirming compliance with US radio frequency standards for wireless features.
Impact of US Ban: Since approval was granted before the ban’s effective date, the Osmo Pocket 4 is not directly blocked and remains eligible for release and sale in the US market.
Additional Certifications: The device also includes IC certification (23060-OP041) for Canada, and complies with standards like CAN ICES-003 (B)/NMB-003 (B), ensuring broader North American compatibility
Final Thoughts: Osmo Pocket 4’s Path Forward in the USA
So, from the above, it is almost confirmed that the camera release in the United States of America is secured. As for when it is coming and its specifications, yes, we will discuss everything in detail in our upcoming post.
For now, based on the previous information, the Pocket 4 announcement was shifted from December to January. We are already crossing January, and no credible sources are sharing any additional details about the upcoming camera. As we have said earlier possibility that the announcement date may shift to February or mid-March of 2026.
Filed late November 2025; FCC often grants 180-day confidentiality for internal/external images and specs, with docs sealed until May 25, 2026. If not announced by then, details become public
We may have to wait a little longer, but rest assured, since the FCC registration surfaced in late November, DJI roughly gets 180 days from the date of registration to officially reveal the product. Otherwise, all the details, including internal and external images and complete product vitals, would become publicly accessible.
Based on historical patterns, we have seen that DJI usually takes around 111 days (approximately) from the date of FCC registration to announce a product. though 111 days from November 26 lands around mid-March
The DJI ban won’t halt the Osmo Pocket 4’s standard model release in the USA, thanks to timely FCC approval
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The article “Will the DJI Ban Affect the Osmo Pocket 4 Release in the USA? In-Depth Analysis and 2026 Updates” was written by thenewcamera.com team on 12:18 pm, Tuesday, 6 January 2026, Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) | You can also follow us on Our Official Social Media HandlesFACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM to get live news — > DJI Rumors
The FCC has expanded its Covered List. Now, the blanket covers all foreign-made drones, and, as you were expecting, it is slamming the doors on all new approvals after December 23, 2025.
So now, as per the rule, the FCC has shut down all new registrations from foreign manufacturers, not only DJI or Autel. It includes all other brands manufactured outside the USA or assembled using parts sourced from multiple countries. All such drones are now blocked from future registrations.
Now, if you are searching heavily using keywords or phrases like “DJI drone ban 2026” or wondering “which DJI drones are still legal in the US,” this guide has it all.
What Is the FCC Covered List, and Why Does It Matter for DJI Drones in 2026?
Before we begin, I am going to explain what the FCC Covered List actually is and why it does not matter specifically for DJI alone.
The FCC Covered List stems from national security mandates under Section 889 of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This rule blacklists all foreign-made drones, not only China-specific manufacturers.
So, any drone manufactured in the USA is allowed after December 23, while all other drones that are manufactured outside the USA or assembled using foreign-sourced components fall under the blacklist category.
The Ban’s Core Impact on DJI
To make this easier to grasp at a glance, here’s a quick breakdown:
Impact Area
What It Means for DJI Users
Timeline
No New Approvals
Drones announced after Dec 22, 2025, can’t get FCC certification—illegal to import/sell in US.
Immediate (2026+)
Existing Models Safe
Pre-ban approved drones remain legal to buy, fly, and repair—no retroactive bans.
Indefinite
Ripple Effects
Prices may rise 20-30%; shift to US alternatives like Skydio for pros/farmers.
Short-term shortages
Why it ‘does not matter specifically for DJI alone’: Blocking all foreign UAS imports/sales of new models, unleashing “American drone dominance.
The big issue is that, as we have discussed earlier, no drone under $500 is U.S.-made. All drones in this price segment—even those offering some of the best video quality in the market—are affordable because they are manufactured outside the USA, specifically in mainland China or Thailand.
Popular models like the DJI Mini series, Holy Stone HS720, or Potensic ATOM, are all produced in China. A 2025 Drone U report on American-made drones lists no entries below $1,000, and a December 2025 analysis from The New Camera explicitly states: “There is no U.S.-made drone close to the $300 price range or even under $500 that we can realistically expect.”
If someone were to manufacture the same type of drone in the United States of America, they would have to pay approximately 3× to 4× higher manufacturing costs, which would result in sky-high prices.
Which DJI Drones Are Still Legal to Buy and Fly in the US After the 2026 Ban?
So, why are DJI drones still available in the USA, and why are other Chinese-manufactured drones also still allowed? The straightforward answer is that right now, the authorities have no other practical option than allowing already FCC-approved drones.
If they were to ban drones retroactively, there would be no existing drones that consumers could legally fly under $700. Everything would be affected, and this would create massive chaos among consumers, drone users, cinematographers, and especially professionals who rely on drones for their daily workflow.
No sub-$700 U.S.-made consumer drones exist in 2026—Skydio’s entry-level (2+) starts at $950+, and enterprise options climb from there (e.g., BRINC LEMUR 2 at $15K). A retroactive ban could theoretically un-approve existing models (FCC voted authority in October 2025), but it hasn’t happened and isn’t planned
By choosing to ban only new approvals after December 23, 2025, this becomes a win-win situation for the FCC and related agencies. On one side, they can promote United States–based drone manufacturers, and on the other side, they can keep users calm by leaving at least some options available, instead of enforcing a complete shutdown.
In the next 1–3 years, U.S.-based drone makers will have a clear and protected market to overtake DJI by introducing their own solutions. Since no new foreign-made drones will receive approval after December 23, 2025, over the next 2–4 years, existing DJI and other foreign drones will naturally start to feel outdated. As a result, users will gradually shift toward newer, domestically approved alternatives.
This is a very clever and strategic move, and consumers need to understand it clearly. For now, we still have some of the best drone options available, and there is no need to panic or immediately switch focus to another brand.
FCC Approved DJI Drones 2026
NEO Series (Newly Added) – All these models are allowed to be sold, re-sold, and fly
All Inspire Series Drones starting from Inspire Series 1 to Inspire Series 3 are allowed
All Matrice Series Drone starting from DJI Matrice 100 to DJI Matrice 400/400A are allowed
the extensive list of already FCC-approved DJI products that are eligible to be sold in the United States of America.
And the best part is that the DJI Avata 360 and the Osmo Pocket 4 camera, along with other products like the Mobile 8p, Lito X1, the DJI Power 1000 Mini, are already pre-approved by the FCC.
So, in the next 6 to 8 months, we are going to see a bunch of drone, camera, and gimbal announcements from DJI that were already approved earlier, and we will be able to enjoy all of them in the United States of America as well.
Sources: FCC filings, DJI.com, and verified retailer listings as of Jan 5, 2026. Note: Accessories like batteries and props are grandfathered if tied to approved models, but new foreign-sourced parts could hit snags.
Future Releases (FCC-Approved Pre-Ban)
These hustled through certification—expect U.S. availability:
Model
Expected Launch
Key Features
Price (USD)
Why It’s a Win
DJI Avata 360 (or Avata 3)
Q1 2026
5.7K 360° video, 30-min flight, immersive goggles
~$1,099 (kit)
Action sports revolution; full-circle views.
DJI Osmo Pocket 4
Jan 2026
1-inch sensor, 4K/120fps gimbal (drone-adjacent)
~$599
Portable cine tool; pairs with approved drones.
Red-Flagged: Future Drones That Won’t Get U.S. Approval
Yes, that’s true. Some future UPCOMING models, such as the DJI Neo 3, the DJI Air 4, and the DJI Mini 5, are not approved. The same applies to action cameras, such as the DJI Action 6, which is expected to arrive sometime in late 2026 or 2027. These products are not going to be officially announced in the United States of America, and they will not be available for sale.
This is because all the products mentioned here are future releases, scheduled for the later part of 2026 or 2027, and they are not FCC-approved. So yes, these will not appear on US market
Model
Expected Announcement
Key Features
Price (USD)
Why It’s Blocked
DJI Neo 3
Q3 2026 (July-Aug)
Modular mini with swappable cams, AR integration
Sub-$300
No pre-ban filing; U.S. misses AI innovation.
DJI Air 4
Summer 2026
Liquid-cooled sensors, 4K/200fps
~$1,199
Unfiled upgrade; pro video dreams deferred.
DJI Mini 5
Fall 2026
Lightweight with 48MP stills
~$699
Hobby staple sidelined; stock Mini 4 Pro now.
Final Thoughts: Navigate the DJI Ban 2026 Like a Pro
As I always say, as a consumer, you have to make a smart move for yourself, because it’s your money, and you must decide where to invest in the best possible solution for your work.
For now, drones are not banned. Yes, future models that do not receive approval are effectively banned, but all the drones we have mentioned in our list are green-flagged and FCC-approved, and you can buy them as long as inventory is available.
That said, customs is creating some trouble for DJI shipments, and even though DJI drones are not banned inside the United States, FCC-approved models are still facing delays while entering the country.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) continues detaining DJI shipments under UFLPA (forced labor concerns in Xinjiang), independent of FCC rules—e.g., holds at Port of LA for approved models like Air 3S, lasting weeks/months. This escalated in late 2025 and persists into 2026, per DroneXL and UAV Coach
So yes, there are many green-flag, approved drones available, and you can buy them without any legal trouble—as long as stock lasts.
Disclosure: Affiliate links may apply. All info verified Jan 5, 2026—regs evolve, so check FCC.gov.
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The article “FCC Covered List for DJI Drones 2026: Read This Before Buying a DJI Drone in the US” was written by thenewcamera.com team on 4:14 pm, Monday, 5 January 2026, Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)| You can also follow us on Our Official Social Media HandlesFACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM to get live news — > DJI Rumors
Nikon is expected to introduce a 26-megapixel partially stacked APS-C sensor alongside the Nikon ZRC camera in 2026. Following this, Nikon is likely to roll out models such as the Nikon Zfc Mark II, the Nikon Z500, and finally the Nikon Z30 II, all powered by the same Res 26MP, but different variations of APS-C sensor architecture. According to Matt, a professional Nikon user and content creator
In this article, we are going to discuss theNikon ZRC, Z500 Nikon Zfc II camera and Z30 II—its possible core specifications as well as the expected arrival timeline.
But before we dive into all these cameras, let’s first understand why we are suddenly discussing these models, and who raised this topic. So, let’s begin by learning more about Matt.
Why Trust Matt Irwin Specifically? He’s a Genuine Nikon Gear Guru—Here’s Why
Mḍ Why trust Matt specifically? Let’s dig into the facts: Matt Irwin isn’t just another YouTuber—he’s a pro photographer with a razor-sharp eye for what’s next in the Nikon world.
Matt Irwin has more than 100,000 subscribers on YouTube, and, most importantly, I am also one of his subscribers. You can even verify that TheNewCamera.com channel is subscribed to Matt Photography.
The best thing about Matt is that he never clicksbait—Straight facts only, no hype.. At the same time, when he discusses upcoming models, he is very clear that he is sharing what he is expecting from Nikon, not making wild claims.
And if something is coming from Matt, then there are certainlyreal facts behind it. He was one of the first people to discuss the development of RED-based Nikon Z cinema technology, long before the Nikon ZR (Z RED camera) was officially announced. In the same way, he discusses industry whispers, but always with context.
He clearly says “I am expecting”, but at the same time, he is deeply rooted and well-connected with Nikon. So whenever Matt talks, you can be confident that something is cooking inside Nikon regarding those models.
Whether these ideas become official products or not, the important thing is this: the concepts do exist inside Nikon, without a doubt.
The list starts with the expected cameras along with their core specifications, what we might think is coming inside them, and the possible arrival timeframe/date.
Introduction of a 26 MP APS-C Hybrid CMOS AF Sensor
According to Matt, first, we have to understand Nikon’s announcement pattern. First, Nikon is going to surprise the market with ZRC + 26MP APS-C, and then repeat a similar strategy that has happened in the past with the Nikon Z9 and Z8 cameras.
Later on, the same sensor of 26MP will be distributed among other top models like the Nikon Z500. Other than that, popular retro models like the Nikon Zfc Mark II, and finally, at the end, to make it available to everyone, there is a high probability that even the Nikon Z30 II may carry the same sensor, with obviously some limitations to protect the higher-end camera models and their sales.
Nikon ZRc: The Budget and the PROs
Before we discuss Matt’s Nikon Z RC model, let me explain. The Nikon Z RC is actually said to be an APS-C version of the ultra-popular Nikon Z R camera. We have already posted an expected set of core specifications of the Nikon Z RC earlier, but our expectations were limited to a budget, entry-level cinema camera that would have better core specifications than the existing Canon R50 V and could compete against the Sony ZV-E10 Mark II. So, somewhere around that, we were expecting a 20 MP sensor-based specification, but as per the sensor readout limits, we already know that 4K 60p without crop is not possible with the existing 20 MP sensor range.
Now, Matt thinks differently, and according to him, a partially 26 MP stacked sensor will appear inside the Nikon Z RC camera, enabling state-of-the-art performance inside a camera body competing not only with entry-level or mid-range models, but also higher-end models like the Sony FX30 and the anticipated Canon R7 Mark II video offerings.
So, let’s have a look at what Matt actually thinks about his vision of the Nikon Z RC camera.
Nikon ZRC: Compact Cinema Powerhouse for Video Creators
Let’s have a look at what Matt actually thinks about his vision of the Nikon Z RC camera.
18 months we may well see a ZRC with from my perspective a partially stacked sensor that’s the same sort of pixel density as the Fujifilm 26 megapixel fully stacked sensor that we find in the XH2S. Basically, it would be the same tech, almost identical, probably the same body as the ZR, but just with a change in the sensor. I think the price point could come down significantly and it’s basically jumping into the same territory as the Sony FX30. It’s a solid idea and it allows people to get into
Matt’s most excited about the Nikon ZRC (Z6R Compact? Or APS-C variant), a “C for compact or C for APS-C” that could merge the Z30’s vlogging vibes with Z6R’s cinema chops. This could be Nikon’s affordable entry into pro video, priced to rival the Sony FX30.
Key Specs for Nikon ZRC
Sensor: 26MP partially stacked APS-C, borrowing from Fujifilm’s playbook for reduced rolling shutter and 4K/120p prowess. “A ZRC with… a partially stacked sensor that’s the same sort of pixel density as the Fujifilm 26 megapixel fully stacked sensor.”
Video Features: Internal RAW video and RED RAW support, like the Z6R. Flip screen, no EVF for that boxy, rig-friendly form. “It still shoots RAW and it still has the Red Raw capabilities… That would be a really killer camera.”
Body & Ergonomics: Slimmer than Z6R, shared Z30/Z6R chassis. “The form factor of the Z30 and the ZR… are a fairly simple box which has a flip screen and no EVF.”
Price Point: $1,200–$1,500 USD, a steal for cinema specs. Matt predicts: “I think you could see a camera like this coming in at something like 1,500, maybe a little bit less.”
Target Audience: Crash cams, A-cam hybrids for creators. “I’ve seen a video creator online recently saying that it is absolutely an A camera as well, which I totally agree with.”
High probability in late 2026, per Matt: “In the next I don’t know 12 to 18 months we may well see a ZRC.” Paired with Nikon’s teased cinema lenses, this could flood the Z ecosystem with APS-C video magic.
Nikon Z500: The APS-C Speed King for Sports & Wildlife
Before we start talking about the Nikon Z500 camera, let me clarify that Matt is talking about a partially stacked sensor introduction inside the Nikon ZRC camera, and he is talking about a fully stacked sensor, similar to what we have seen inside the Fujifilm X-H2S, for the upcoming Nikon Z500 camera.
So, don’t get confused: the ZRC is expected to have a partially stacked sensor, while the Z500 is expected to feature a fully stacked sensor. Entry-level cameras like the Nikon Z30 Mark II are expected to use a hybrid 26MP non-stacked APS-C sensor.
Kicking off with a fake-out (“the Nikon Z500 is the real deal, but it’s not”), Matt circles back to this enthusiast dream: a D500 successor in Z-mount, optimized for action over megapixels.
Rumored Nikon Z500 Specifications
Sensor: 26MP fully stacked APS-C, aping the X-H2S for blackout-free bursts. “That to me is the sensor that you would put in a Nikon Z500… a good balance of extra resolution.”
Performance: 20fps+ RAW bursts, minimal rolling shutter, superior low-light noise. “Speed and fidelity in low light is more important than slightly more megapixels… better noise, better dynamic range, less rolling shutter.”
Body Design: Z6III-inspired grip for telephoto stability, top-tier EVF (5.76M-dot), vari-angle screen like Sony A1 II. “It’s got Nikon’s best EVF… Fantastic EVF, good ergonomics, great weather sealing.”
Price & Use Cases: $1,800–$2,200 USD, aimed at sports, wildlife, birders. “It’s aimed at sports, action, wildlife, and birders… Gives me extra reach.”
Matt’s verdict: “All of the elements are there to put out this camera.” With APS-C trends booming (per Nikon’s Q&A: “market trends show increased popularity of APS-C products”)
Nikon Zfc Mark II: Retro Charm Meets Modern Tech
Yes, the replacement is quite expected. The camera was announced back in 2021.Z fc remains one of the most popular photographer cameras. Now in 2026, we do expect a second generation of the Z fc series camera that may have some updated set of core specifications, maybe similar to Nikon Z50 II’s camera, but Matt thinks it is a bit different. He believes the Z fc Mark II camera will have ground-breaking core specifications.Let’s look over that.
Expected Specs for Nikon ZFC 2
Sensor: A 26-megapixel APS-C stacked sensor, which we have already seen inside the Fujifilm X-H2S, could arrive inside the upcoming Nikon camera.
Stacking Tech: No full stack to keep costs down, but a partially stacked sensor like the Z6III could enhance readout speeds and dynamic range via dual-gain output. “We might not see partially stacked, but we could see perhaps an increase to something like 26 megapixels.”
Autofocus & Speed: Inherited EXPEED 7 processor for faster bursts (up to 11fps?) and improved low-light AF.
Build & Price: Retro dials intact, flip-out screen, and weather-sealing. Entry-level pricing around $900–$1,100 USD to undercut full-frame rivals.
Why It Matters: “The majority of people shooting with APS-C cameras don’t really need much beyond 21 megapixels,” Matt notes, emphasizing pixel density over raw count for everyday creators.
If the full-frame ZF stole some thunder, the ZFC 2 could reclaim the compact, stylish niche.
Nikon Z30 II: Vlogging Stalwart Gets a Refresh?
The Z30, now four years old and rocking outdated EXPEED 6, feels like it’s on borrowed time. Matt sees it as a “variable option,” potentially evolving into a Z32 or folding into the ZRC lineup.
Potential Nikon Z32 Specs
Sensor Upgrade: 26MP non-stacked APS-C for sharper 4K and better low-light. “A Z30 II, which is the same sensor that we might find in a ZFC just a standard 26 megapixel sensor.”
Video & Stills: Enhanced IBIS, 4K/60p, and mic jack. No EVF, keeping it lightweight at ~$800 USD.
Timeline: Lower priority than ZRC. “The Z30 I think, is a variable option… We could see a Z32… waiting in the wings.”
If Nikon prioritizes modularity, expect a Z32 trickle-down from higher-end tech. Vloggers, stay tuned—this could bridge the gap until ZRC steals the show.
Model
Sensor
Key Upgrade
Est. Price (USD)
Zfc Mark II
26MP Partially Stacked APS-C
Retro Dials + 11fps
$900–$1,100
Z30 Mark II
26MP APS-C
4k 60p Uncropped, RED Luts,
$800
Z500
26MP Fully Stacked APS-C
20fps + Pro Grip
$1,800–$2,200
ZRC
26MP Partially Stacked APS-C
6K Video + IBIS, RED RAW + Cinema Box
$1,200–$1,500
So that’s all we have related to the upcoming Nikon camera predictions from Matt, and obviously, all of these look very promising. We do hope and expect that 2026, in particular, will see the introduction of a 26MP APS-C sensor across the Nikon APS-C lineup.
The article “Nikon ZRc, Nikon Z500, Nikon ZFC II and Z30 II Specs & Release Rumors Revealed by Matt” was written by thenewcamera.com team on 12:59 pm, Sunday, 4 January 2026, Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) | You can also follow us on Our Official Social Media HandlesFACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM > get live news + Nikon Rumors 24X7
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