The Canon EOS R7 has long been touted as the camera giant's next big release, with the latest rumors suggesting a March launch. But not only will it miss that date, we haven't heard anything about the camera in the two months since these rumors first surfaced, with Canon seemingly focusing on higher priorities.
The rumored release dates are, of course, far from concrete, and the Canon Rumors post predicting a March release for the hobbyist camera correctly contained the warning that "product announcement dates may be seen affected by today's manufacturing challenges.
But what's less common is the complete absence of any leaks or speculation as to why such a huge release may have missed a release window that was predicted, according to Canon Rumors, a "pretty solid source." Instead, this month Canon unveiled business strategy plans with some very revealing comments about its plans for the EOS R system.
The Canon EOS R7 should be a landmark release as the Canon EOS R system, including cameras and lenses, is currently of very high quality. With the expected inclusion of an APS-C sensor, the EOS R7 will act (on paper) as the spiritual successor to the Canon EOS 7D Mark II DSLR, and likely mark the end of its EOS-M series as well.
But according to Canon's 2022 strategy report, that's not where the sales are. The report concludes that "although the overall market continues to contract, this primarily reflects lower sales of entry-level models. On the other hand, demand from professionals and discerning hobbyists seeking high-quality image expression remains strong."
This explains why Canon has focused on cameras like the Canon EOS R5 and EOS R6 and expanded its range of high-end RF lenses. Canon was keen to emphasize that it plans to expand its RF lens range "at the same pace", which would mean an additional eight new lenses this year and, by 2025, around 58 lenses across the system.
On that topic, we recently saw Canon announce the world's longest lens for mirrorless cameras, the RF 1200mm f/8L IS USM, along with the RF 800mm f/5.6 L IS USM, all so expensive. The latest Canon rumors are lens-based, too, with the camera giant testing prototypes of some new 'DO' super-telephoto lenses that offer great reach in compact, lightweight packages.
And the Canon EOS R7? Whether due to chip shortages, supply chain issues, or other priorities, its launch appears to have been delayed until later in the year. Given the six-month delivery delays for cameras like the Canon EOS R3, let's hope it will be available for purchase before 2023.
Analysis: Thrown out of the way, instead of derailing
We recently argued that a perfect storm has swept away affordable mirrorless cameras, and similar forces are likely to be behind the apparent delay of the Canon EOS R7.
Most camera manufacturers don't know when to release new models as stocks are so low. For Canon, the continued success of more expensive models like the Canon EOS R5 will likely also lessen the urgency to offer more affordable options like the rumored EOS R7; after all, some impatient photographers can bend over backwards for a high-end camera.
The problem is that Canon's strategy of focusing on more high-end EOS R cameras and lenses predates the global cost-of-living crisis, which means demand for affordable successors to the Canon EOS R and Canon EOS RP is increasing. growing strongly among non-professionals. Alternatively, it could evaporate during the year as enthusiasts browse second-hand deals.
Either way, it looks like Canon will build out its EOS R range with new models later this year. In his recent strategy report, he states that he believes the camera market is "bottoming out" and that "going forward, we will continue to expand our lineup in response to user feedback, to secure the No. 1 market share position." of the world on mirrorless cameras. cameras, maintain the level of sales and further increase profitability through the development of automation".
The latest speculation suggests that Canon plans to launch three EOS R cameras in the second half of 2022, including the Canon EOS R7 and a successor to the old Canon EOS RP. It's been a long wait for anyone looking for a modern and affordable entry point to Canon's excellent mirrorless camera system. But 2022 should finally reward that patience, despite the inevitable delays.