After years of anticipation, Canon has formally announced the EOS R1 camera, the first flagship model in their EOS R family of mirrorless cameras and lenses, and is hoping to release it sometime later in 2024.
With the EOS R1, Canon aims to fulfill the demanding requirements of professionals across diverse fields such as sports, news reporting, and video production with hopes of redefining industry standards with its blend of cutting-edge technology, including a brand new image processor and deep-learning technologies offering unprecedented AF tracking and image quality.
The announcement came as a bit of a surprise given that Canon has a tendency to keep product developments under wraps until closer to their release.
Frustratingly, it also doesn’t contain a lot of information, although there are tidbits of its potential including mention of an Advanced Image Processing System that incorporates a newly developed DIGIC Accelerator alongside Canon’s existing DIGIC X processor, as well as a newly developed CMOS sensor that will be at the heart of the EOS R1.
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Deep learning technology integration with the new image processing system will allow the EOS R1 to achieve high-speed and high-accuracy subject recognition and a unique AF “Action Priority” Function will allow the camera to rapidly analyze and prioritize subjects in motion, helping to ensure that crucial moments are captured with sharp focus.
Canon also mentions that the EOS R1’s robust image processing system and advanced deep learning technology will not only enhance autofocus features but also help to significantly improve image quality with the incorporation of an in-camera image noise reduction function that was previously only available as PC software.
While there is no mention of an official release date, Canon states that they are actively engaged in rigorous field tests of the EOS R1, and given their historical track record of timing flagship releases around major international sporting events such as the Olympic games, it might not be off the mark to speculate that it could be released around the upcoming Paris Olympics later this summer.
