Hasselblad X2D II Press Release Spills out Early Across the Internet

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One of the more intriguing rumors was the Hasselblad X2D II, and the press announcement does give us some more details that make the system a little clearer. It does indeed appear as if the Hasselblad X2D II will have some form of LiDAR built into the camera, but only to assist with focus, not as the primary focus method. This is somewhat what I suspected, that LiDAR couldn't do everything normal phase detection could do. It will be interesting to see how this works, and if the position of the LiDAR sensor was accurate, how it works with all of Hasselblad's lenses.

We discussed the Hasselblad rumor with the X2D II having LiDAR a few weeks ago. Give it a read. I don't think I messed it up too badly, but Craig will certainly take great joy in telling me if I did.

Also being released is a new kit zoom, the 35-100mm F2.8-4 (which is 28-75mm equivalent in full frame)

We'll have far more details when this is released. Now that we have received the press announcement, I suspect we'll see an official announcement soon – rumor has it that the official release is on August 26th.

Rumored Features

Integrated LiDAR AF system with performance on par with Sony
New joystick and additional customizable buttons on the back of the camera
Monitors with improved resolution
The monitor can be tilted downwards
Improved User Interface

I would show the leaked images, but the watermarks annoy me – so much that I'm tempted to AI out the watermarks just for spite. Craig and I both agree on this – if it's official images (leaked or not) from the vendor, watermarking them is simply wrong.

The above image is the X2D 100C – the new one looks close to this, and I love the image.

Leaked Press Announcement

Hasselblad Unveils X2D II 100C and New Zoom Lens
Hasselblad launches 100MP HDR medium format with new zoom

Hasselblad has announced the X2D II 100C, an update to the highly respected X2D 100C. This new 100-megapixel medium format camera will be the first to offer true end-to-end high dynamic range (HDR). As well as the new camera body, Hasselblad has also launched the XCD 2,8–4/35–100E, a compact standard zoom lens designed to deliver flagship optical performance across a wide focal range.

The X2D II 100C builds on the original X2D 100C, introducing several key innovations. Chief among them is AF-C continuous autofocus, a first for Hasselblad, powered by deep learning algorithms to deliver faster, more reliable subject detection and tracking. Its Phase Detection Autofocus system now covers 425 zones, supported by LiDAR-assisted focusing and a new AF illuminator for improved performance in low light.

In terms of image quality, the X2D II 100C features Hasselblad Natural Colour Solution with High Dynamic Range (HNCS HDR), bringing real life colours, greater highlight retention, and richer tonal detail even in difficult lighting. HDR files can be saved as HDR HEIF or Ultra HDR JPEG and can be reviewed on the new 3.6-inch OLED screen, which is now 75% brighter than its predecessor.

At its heart is an enhanced 100MP BSI CMOS sensor with 16-bit colour depth and a dynamic range of 15.3 stops. Combined with a new 10-stop, 5-axis stabilisation system, the camera offers even greater control for hand-held shooting, including the ability to capture long exposures without a tripod. Phocus Mobile 2 expands the workflow further, enabling editing, remote control, and HDR RAW processing directly from an iOS device.

The X2D II 100C features 1TB of internal storage and a CFexpress Type B slot for expansion, so there should be no worries about running out of storage space even with those high-resolution files. The X2D II 100C design has also been refined over the previous release and now features a lighter body, new graphite grey matte finish, tilting OLED screen, 5D joystick, and customisable controls for improved ergonomics.

Complementing the new body is the XCD 2,8–4/35–100E lens, a versatile standard zoom covering 28–76mm full-frame equivalent. With an aperture range of f/2,8 to f/4, it offers strong low-light performance and smooth bokeh, while maintaining edge-to-edge sharpness. The optical formula includes 16 elements in 13 groups, with three aspherical and five ED elements. This makes it fully capable of meeting the demands of a 100MP sensor.

The lens employs the fastest stepping motor in the XCD lineup boosts the autofocus. One of the features that Hasselblad cameras are known for is the integrated leaf shutter that supports full flash synchronisation up to 1/4000 second, while the compact 894g body ensures handling remains balanced on the new X2D II 100C.

Hasselblad is also releasing accessories, including the Vandra Camera Backpack, inspired by Sweden’s Freedom to Roam, and three new 86mm filters: UV, ND8, and CPL.

Hasselblad X2D