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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.

Firmware update version 1.10 for NikonZR has been officially released

Firmware update version 1.10 for NikonZR has been officially released! The update includes:
➡ Extension of maximum continuous recording time to approximately 360 minutes, accommodating long-duration shooting scenarios.
➡ Support for timecode input via wired connection; introduction of a file naming convention similar to RED cinema cameras, facilitating multi-camera video shoots.
➡ Addition of a brightness information display warning line feature; increase in LUT import limit from storage cards to up to 50.

Source: Weibo

First leaked image of this new super compact Kase 150mm f/5.6 REFLEX Z-mount autofocus lens

What you see here is a truly unique lens! Thanks to its unique REFLEX design, it is the most compact 150 mm lens I have ever seen. It also supports full autofocus…which, in my opinion, is also a world first? Correct me if I am wrong.

Here are the know specs:

Kase 150mm f/5.6

  • Full Frame
  • Autofocus
  • 67mm filter size
  • AF/MF switch
  • Z-mount, E-mount

Of course we all know that REFLEX lenses have inherently a slightly worse optical performance that lenses with a “regular” design. But int this case you might be willing to accept the compromise because no other lens gives you that reach in such a small size. Kase made a bunch of regular E/Z-mount lenses and also some Reflex lenses you can find on those pages at Amazon and BHphoto.