Nikon’s Future Z9II: What to Expect from the Next Flagship Mirrorless Camera
Nikon patented the design of a unique 85-135mm f/1.8-2.8 Full Frame lens
Nikon working on two new 18 and 85mm tilt shift lenses?
Exclusive: First Leaked Image of the Bokeh King – Sigma 135mm f/1.4

Nikon 2026 Predictions Cameras, Lenses, Firmware by Matt Irwin

Matt Irwin expects the following NIkon announcement in 2026:

Camera Bodies

  • Nikon Z9II (Flagship): Development announcement expected between March and September 2026. Features likely include “XP8” processing and RED technology integration.
  • Nikon Z500 / Z90: A high-end APS-C flagship with a stacked 26MP sensor aimed at the D500-legacy wildlife/sports market.
  • Nikon ZRC / Z30R: A professional-grade APS-C cinema camera, effectively an APS-C version of the current full-frame Nikon ZR.
  • Advanced Cine Body: A dedicated cinema camera positioned between the Red Komodo and the Nikon ZR.

Lenses

  • Z Cinema Lenses: A set of 3 to 6 autofocus-capable cinema lenses. The first 2 or 3 are expected by Q2 2026.
  • 70-200mm f/2.8 S Version 2: A redesigned professional workhorse featuring new AF protocols to unlock “hidden” focusing prowess.
  • 100-300mm (or 120-300mm): A high-end “tentpole” lens for sports and wildlife, potentially featuring a built-in teleconverter or Phase Fresnel (PF) technology.
  • Ultra-Wide Prime: A 14mm or 16mm f/1.8 S-line prime designed for astro, interiors, and gimbal work.
  • Exotic Primes: Possible development of ultra-fast glass, such as a 50mm f/1.0 with autofocus.

Firmware & Updates

  • Nikon ZR Major Updates: Version 1.5 expected mid-year and Version 2.0 by late 2026, likely addressing Log video concerns and adding anamorphic desqueeze.
  • Feature Trickle-down: New UI features (like red histogram lines and timecode improvements) moving across the Expeed 7 camera range.
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Weird rumors about a new Nikon ZR C coming soon

Nikon ZR C APS-C vlogging camera rumor on Weibo

Nikon ZR C rumor: entry-level APS-C vlogging camera expected in Q4 2026

Rumor alert: According to chatter on Weibo, the Nikon ZR C is expected to arrive in the fourth quarter of 2026. It’s said to target the entry‑level video/vlogging segment with a compact body similar to the Nikon Z30, omitting an electronic viewfinder and mechanical shutter to prioritize portability and price. The model reportedly aims to compete with the Canon EOS R50 V.

Release window and positioning

  • Timing: Rumored for Q4 2026
  • Format: APS‑C Nikon Z‑mount
  • Target user: Entry‑level video creators and vloggers
  • Design: Compact body similar to Z30
  • Notable omissions: No EVF and no mechanical shutter
  • Primary competitor: Canon EOS R50 V

Rumored specifications

  • 20‑megapixel APS‑C sensor (reportedly the same as the Nikon Z50 II)
  • EXPEED 7 image processor
  • Autofocus algorithm derived from Nikon Z9
  • No in‑body 5‑axis stabilization (IBIS)
  • Cropped 4K/60p video recording
  • 1080p/120 video recording

Who is this rumored camera for?

If accurate, the ZR C would appeal to beginners and mobile creators who prioritize 4K/60p capture, reliable autofocus, and a lightweight body over features like an EVF or IBIS. Pairing with stabilized Z‑mount lenses would help compensate for the lack of in‑body stabilization.

Important disclaimer

This information is unconfirmed and may change. Treat all details as rumor until Nikon provides an official announcement.

FAQ (rumored)

When is the Nikon ZR C expected to be released?

Q4 2026, according to current rumors.

Will the Nikon ZR C have an electronic viewfinder?

No EVF is rumored, similar to the Z30’s EVF‑less design.

Does the Nikon ZR C include in‑body image stabilization (IBIS)?

IBIS is not expected. Use stabilized lenses to reduce shake.

What video modes are rumored?

Cropped 4K/60p and 1080p/120 are said to be supported.

How does it compare to the Canon EOS R50 V?

Positioning appears similar—an affordable, compact APS‑C vlogging camera—suggesting Nikon is targeting the same audience as Canon’s R50 V.

Exclusive: First Leaked Image of the Bokeh King – Sigma 135mm f/1.4

For the first time ever, Sigma has built a lens that no one else dared to create — a true BOKEH King, designed to rule them all. Introducing the Sigma 135mm f/1.4 for Sony E and Leica L-mount and easily to adapt on Nikon Z mount cameras:

With a massive 105mm filter thread and weighing 1350g, this isn’t exactly a lightweight lens — yet it’s still 300g lighter while matching the size of Sigma’s other legendary 105mm prime.

Why choose this over a “classic” 85mm f/1.4?

  • Delivers nearly one-third the depth of field, creating dramatically stronger bokeh.
  • Makes background separation effortless for portraits.
  • If needed, you can shoot from farther away, making it less intrusive.
  • In crop mode, it transforms into a 200mm f/1.4, perfect for indoor concerts and even sports photography

Here is a quick size comparison with he Sigma 105mm f/1.4 and Sigma 85mm f/1.4:

Sure, it’s heavier and bulkier — but after seeing sample shots, I can confirm this lens delivers absolutely breathtaking results. And since most of the weight sits close to the mount, it’s surprisingly well-balanced and not tiring to handle over longer sessions. Stay tuned on Nikoneye.com — this one’s going to be exciting!

Sigma 135mm f/1.4 – Key Specs
  • Full-frame autofocus lens
  • 105mm filter thread
  • Weight: ~1320g
  • Classic black finish
  • Removable tripod collar
  • Available for Sony E and Leica L-mount
  • Announcement: September 9

Sigma 135mm f/1.4 preorder links (open on Sept 9): BHphoto, Adorama, Amazon, Fotoerhardt, Calumet, Fotokoch, WexUK.

Nikon Z9II rumored specs…

A series of specifications for the Nikon Z9II are making the rounds on Chinese social networks:

Nikon Z9II rumored parameters and specifications:
-45 million pixel stacked image sensor,
-EXPEED8 image processor,
-8K video recording: support up to 50/60fps,
-4K video recording: support up to 100/120fps. (Personally, I think it is unlikely to support 200/240fps)
-10bit internal recording
-Improved AI focus tracking algorithm
-Lightweight magnesium alloy body
-Dual CFexpress Type B card slots
-Support 5G wifi connection.

I don’t think we’ll see an announcement for the Z9II anytime soon. At best, we can expect an announcement by the end of 2025.

Nikon patented the design of a unique 85-135mm f/1.8-2.8 Full Frame lens

Nikon patented the design of a never seen before 85-135mm f/1.8-2.8 Full Frame lens. Nikon Japan writes:

Conventionally, variable magnification optical systems suitable for photo cameras, electronic still cameras, video cameras, etc. have been proposed (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In such variable magnification optical systems, it is difficult to obtain bright and good optical performance while making them compact.

So basically Nikon’s goal here is to offer an ultimate portrait zoom lens that still has reasonable size. In this design the lens of the length is 119.454mm up to 149.236mm when fully extended. That’s truly compact if you consider the 135mm f/1.8 S Plena Lens is 139.5mm long!

Of course, this is a patent and there is no guarantee that they will ever make this lens. But damn… I’m keeping my fingers crossed that this beast will be made!

–

via Asobinet

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