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PhotoTrend, a french publication has posted an interview that they had with Canon executives and the topic of a Canon retro style camera came up. It's interesting how open Canon executives were this time.
We have reported that a Canon retro style camera would be coming to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Canon AE-1 in 2026. A late 2025 announcement would fit perfectly into those plans.
This is why we call it the Canon EOS RE-1. It's not an official name; we just think it makes sense.
Can we expect to see Canon release a retro style camera in the future?
Canon Executive Manabu Kato: I'm really glad to hear that you're an AE-1 enthusiast because I also like that camera.
Thanks for the question about the retro look, the style and the design. It’s not as simple as saying, “Okay, let’s develop this camera to look vintage.” In a camera like this [EOS R5 Mark II, editor’s note], we have the camera part, the lens part, and the accessories' part, and they all have to coordinate to form a camera.
That’s why we have to start the design by considering, “If we change the camera part, how will it affect the lens, how will it affect the accessories?” Those are the things we consider first in our designs.
And we really focus on the ergonomics of the grip, the positioning of the dials, the buttons and other elements. So if we were to do that with the design of the AE-1, would it really achieve the kind of ergonomics and usability that we need in a Canon camera? That's the big question.
I hear you, and there is indeed a lot of demand for vintage-looking cases, and that’s not something we’re ignoring. We’re listening. But those technological challenges, as well as the commercial viability challenges, are things we’ll also have to carefully consider before we can move forward with a vintage design.
https://phototrend.fr/2025/03/interview-canon-cp-plus-2025/This is an interesting answer from a Canon Executive. They are generally quite tight lipped about future product plans and provide the standard “We cannot comment on future products” answer.
Executives have been expanding their answers when asked about retro style camera designs, which is refreshing.
If you understand Canon speak, we're going to see such a camera, and yes, it will be to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Canon AE-1. We don't believe it will come to market as a repackaged EOS R5 Mark II, that price point would simply be too hight for the segment.
About The Future of the APS-C Line
Canon Executive, Manabu Kato also talks about the future of the APS-C lineup. The best part? He's suggesting Canon is going to bring us competitive cameras in 2025 and beyond. We already know that the Canon EOS RV is coming, which will be a new segment of the APS-C lineup.
Canon Executive Manabu Kato: Of course, APS-C is a very important aspect of our business, so we are putting a lot of effort into it. I can’t disclose any new product plans. We understand your expectations. Stay tuned—we are committed to meeting them, without disappointment.
https://phototrend.fr/2025/03/interview-canon-cp-plus-2025/It's worth heading over to PhotoTrend to read the full interview, they cover everything from the Canon EOS R1, Canon EOS R5 Mark II, PowerShot V1, APS-C cameras, and computational photography.
But knowing about the modern ergonomics I wouldn‘t buy one.
Only real comment is that if the sound they use for a simulated shutter is that of the original AE-1, it will sound like every iPhone in the world.
A blend of some analog and some modern digital interface might be neat, but I understand there is no making everyone happy with such a unicorn.
At least it will not be an R100 in a retro metal body…(suspenseful music) …or will it?
They said their source indicates it won't be "upmarket" which worries me that it likely will be an R8 sensor with the capabilites of the R50 or R100. Like what OM did with the OM-3 but more downmarket.
The world’s most popular camera* is…Canon
Although quite advanced in its electronics the cameras themselves were very cheaply made compared with the likes of Nikon, Pentax, Fujica etc. However, to be fair, many have stood the test of time.
The plastic bodies of the EOS 1 and 1n cameras were interesting; they went through a process of lacquering and baking to produce a rather nice, tough finish, that didn’t feel at all “plasticky”.
Its simple Nikon, if the dial is in "C" then you're in auto ISO with the exposure compensation dial activated. If you're in a designated ISO value on the ISO dial, then the exposure compensation dial is deactivated..is that so hard Nikon??? (Nikon Z F owners will understand what I'm getting at)
I have to admit that not doing a Canonet QL17 GIII style or Canon P style camera is the most disappointing aspect of this retro camera. Nothing wrong with the AE-1 (necessarily) but man, can you get any more predictable?.....I'm still totally going to buy it, but I'll look at it with contempt for all of its days. 😒
Hard to imagine Canon doing this. And too me seems like waste of resources. But I don't understand this retro thing in general either, so I might of course be totally wrong...