EOS 70D
Canon's Masaya Maeda let it be know that a Canon EOS 70D would be coming “some day in the future. Without fail.” I'd expect one to be announced in the next 45-90 days depending on which report we go with.
What to expect feature wise? I've been told two contrasting theories about the upcoming camera.
One, that it will be a relatively lateral upgrade to the EOS 60D, a few subtle improvements and priced around $1000.
The other reports that have leaked in, is the xxD line would return to where the 50D was in terms of build quality and size. We'd be going back to a more semi-professional style camera. If this happens, that would definitely change the EOS 7D's place in the lineup.
EOS 7D Mark II
There has been little talk about the next “pro” APS-C camera lately. I'm of the belief, if and when one comes, it will be a new segment for APS-C performance and features, and probably at a higher price point. If the 70D returns to its roots, is there room for a high performance $2000+ APS-C camera? That question could probably be debated for a while.
I don't see a return of APS-H, it needlessly raises the cost to manufacture the camera due to the larger sensor, and we'd still have the inability to get a true wide angle perspective with lenses.
If a pro APS-C camera comes, I can see it borrowing heavily from the EOS-1D X as far as framerate and AF performance go. Build quality would also be quite stellar.
Both Nikon and Canon must be hard at work trying to redefine the segment. The D300 came out in 2007, with a minor “s” upgrade in 2009. The EOS 7D came to us with a lot of fanfare in late 2009. We could be approaching 6 years and 4 years respectively before we get to see what both companies have up their sleeves.
The future is probably full frame across most of the EOS line, but we're not at that point yet.
*UPDATE*
During my current travels, I missed an interview Masaya Maeda gave in Japan about the 7D's successor. Below is a translated part of the interview that talks about the EOS 7D Mark II. It does reaffirm our thoughts that the 7D Mark II will enter new territory.
DKW: As for the readers of DigiKame Watch, there are many who are waiting for the EOS 7D’s sucessor. Up through the release of last year’s major firmware update, there were many who felt that a new model with even better specs would be released shortly…
MM: Yes, they would be correct. For us, it’s about looking at what the camera has the potential to be and then adding that to what it can currently do. I do think the current model is still very attractive to buyers. And while we are, of course, developing its successor, it’ll be one that incorporates a certain number of innovative technologies. We will not be putting out a product with merely better specs, but one that has evolved into new territory. But then again, we’re not talking about something a long time from now either.
Thanks Dave C for this update
Source: [DPR]
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