Next year is set to be a significant one, filled with major announcements. Nikon is diligently developing its inaugural movie camera in partnership with RED. Additionally, the Nikon Z7 III, Nikon Z30 II, and several other models are on the horizon.
Nikon is entering a particularly exciting and dynamic phase, as the company methodically ventures into the realm of professional video production. Following the introduction of firmware that enables 12-bit RAW video recording on the Nikon Z9, the acquisition of the American film camera manufacturer RED, and the upcoming launch of the Nikon Z6 III featuring the same N-RAW mode, Nikon is on the verge of unveiling a professional film camera along with dedicated film optics.
The manufacturer is also aiming to expand its presence in the “amateur” segment, specifically targeting cameras equipped with APS-C format sensors. According to sources, Nikon is expected to unveil the Nikon Z30 II model in 2025.
The Nikon Z30 II is anticipated to feature the same proprietary Expeed 7 image processing engine and the identical 20.9 MP sensor found in the earlier Nikon Z50 II model.
Possible specifications of Nikon Z30 II:
20.9-megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor
EXPEED 7 image processor
ISO 100-51200 sensitivity range
125-minute recording time limit in 4K
UHD 4K 60fps video recording (with additional cropping)
Full HD 120fps slow-motion shooting
60fps live streaming
Dedicated “product review” focus mode for vloggers
10-bit internal recording (via HDMI output to external recorder)
Continuous shooting at up to 11fps
Vlogging-friendly design with selfie controls
Hybrid AF with advanced face and eye detection
9-type subject recognition (animals, vehicles, etc.)
3.0-inch 1.04-megadot free-angle LCD touchscreen (tilts up to 180° for vlogging)
Built-in stereo microphone with wind noise reduction function
Standard 3.5mm external microphone input
Newly designed recording indicator lamp
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for seamless connectivity
The source indicates that the Nikon Z30 II camera is set to be released in either the fourth quarter of 2025 or the first quarter of 2026. Given the extended timeline before the announcement, it is likely that further enhancements will be incorporated into the model. This consideration is in response to the introduction of competing cameras and advancements in their features.
Notably, the source mentions that the camera will support 10-bit video output via HDMI, presumably for use with an external monitor. In contrast, the Sony ZV-E10 II and Fujifilm X-M5 cameras offer the capability to record 10-bit video directly onto a memory card. It appears that Nikon views the Nikon Z50 II as a primary competitor to these models.
Additionally, the source highlights that the Nikon Z30 II will feature a design tailored for vlog shooting, including specialized controls for selfie mode.
Another significant release anticipated from the company next year is the full-frame Nikon Z5 II camera, which is expected to be announced in the first quarter of 2025, according to the source.
This camera is set to feature a 24-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor and an Expeed 7 image processing engine, along with an enhanced intelligent autofocus system that was first introduced in the Nikon Z8 model. According to sources, this second-generation camera will show considerable advancements over the Nikon Z5.
Key Features of Nikon Z5 II:
24.5-megapixel full-frame BSI CMOS sensor
Expeed 7 image processor
4K UHD video recording at 30 fps, 60 fps with 1.5x crop
Supports Full HD video recording at 120 fps,
273-point Hybrid AF with Eye and Animal Detection
5-axis in-body image stabilization
Bright 3.69-million-dot OLED electronic viewfinder
3.2-inch tilting touchscreen LCD
Dual UHS-II SD card slots
Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities
Supports USB-C charging and power delivery
There is currently no information regarding whether the camera will incorporate the company’s advanced in-body stabilization (IBIS). The original Nikon Z5 shares the same stabilization system as the first-generation Nikon Z6. Regardless, the upcoming Nikon Z5 II is set to compete with the Canon EOS R8, which lacks in-body stabilization entirely.
Additionally, it remains uncertain if the camera will offer support for 10-bit video recording, although it is likely that it will.
The next anticipated announcement, which has yet to be verified by independent sources, is for the Nikon Z7 III. The launch of this model is projected for the period between August and November 2025.
Recent reports suggest that Nikon is set to unveil a new high-resolution sensor in the Z7 III series, potentially featuring either a 61-megapixel sensor from Sony or a 67-megapixel variant.
According to sources, Nikon has been developing prototypes of the 67-megapixel sensor for over two years, aiming to ensure that the upcoming model competes effectively with Sony’s high-megapixel A7R cameras while maintaining excellent dynamic range and image quality.
Nikon Z7 III Specifications :
61MP FX-format BSI CMOS sensor (or higher resolution sensor)
8K 30fps and 4K 60fps video,
10-bit video to memory card, ProRes RAW support (likely N-RAW too)
Maximum continuous shooting speed of up to 20 fps
AF with 493 AF points located almost across the entire frame
AI-based subject detection
3.2-inch LCD touchscreen with 4-axis tilt
SD UHS-II and CFexpress Type B memory card slots
5GHz Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
The source indicates that the Nikon Z7 II and Nikon Z5 cameras are considered the most “obsolete” within the current lineup based on their update timeline. Consequently, it is anticipated that the company will refresh these full-frame models in 2025.
Conflicting information has emerged regarding the Nikon Z7 III camera. Some reports suggest that it may feature the highest resolution of any mirrorless camera from Nikon, potentially utilizing a 90 MP sensor developed with technology first seen in the newly announced Nikon Z6 III, which incorporates a partially folded sensor. Prototypes of this camera have reportedly achieved a resolution of 88 MP.
Additionally, there are updates concerning the Nikon Z9 II camera. While the exact model name remains uncertain—some sources propose it may be referred to as the Nikon Z9s—this article will refer to the next iteration of the Z9 series as the Nikon Z9 II.
The Nikon Z9 II is expected to be equipped with a new generation Expeed 8 processor, which will enhance computing power compared to the Nikon Z9. This upgrade is likely to improve autofocus algorithms, particularly in areas such as 3D object tracking, continuous shooting speed, video recording resolution, and frame rate.
As a result, we can anticipate a substantial enhancement in the camera’s core specifications, with a projected release in Q4 2025.
Another potential release in 2025 is the Nikon Z90. Recent rumors suggest that a prototype 33 MP sensor is on track for production approval, and it is likely that this sensor will be featured in the upcoming camera.
The source has not provided information regarding the possible release timeframe. This camera is expected to rival high-end APS-C models, such as the Fujifilm X-T50.
Latest Nikon Z90 specs rumors :
33.4-megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor
EXPEED 7 image processor
UHD 4K60p/Full HD 180fps video recording
5-axis in-body stabilization (IBIS)
AI AF, advanced 3D AF, 9-subject recognition
15 fps continuous shooting (with mechanical shutter)
Dual UHS-II SD slots
5 GHz Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
Nikon is actively lowering the prices of its full-frame Z cameras, beginning with the Z5, Z6 II, and ZF models. These cameras are positioned within an accessible price range, reflecting the brand’s commitment to making photography equipment available to users across various budgets. The upcoming Nikon Z90 aligns with this pricing strategy.
Currently, the camera is undergoing testing by Nikon’s engineering team. While a release is anticipated in 2025, confirmation of this timeline has yet to be provided.
The forthcoming announcement will mark Nikon’s entry into the cinema camera market.
Nikon is confident that the extensive development experience gained from RED will result in a high-quality and high-performance cinema camera. This new offering will integrate Nikon’s advanced autofocus and Z-mount features with RED’s renowned color science and codecs.
In the past, RED has collaborated with TowerJazz, an Israeli manufacturer of sensors, to develop its 20-megapixel global shutter Super 35mm cameras, which feature enhanced video functionalities. This alliance has enabled RED to maintain a competitive edge over other consumer and mid-range camera offerings.
The partnership between Nikon and TowerJazz is well-established, with TowerJazz depending on Nikon for its equipment while Nikon incorporates TowerJazz sensors into its DSLR and mirrorless camera lines. This collaboration is reflected in the joint presentation materials produced by both companies.
The forthcoming RED Komodo Z movie camera is expected to feature support for the active Z-mount, which will enable autofocus capabilities with real-time face detection. It remains unclear whether this camera will be positioned in the budget category or priced at a premium.
To bring these features to fruition, the company has already revealed plans for its inaugural cinema lens: the Nikkor 28-135mm F/4 PZ.
The designation “PZ” in this lens name refers to Power Zoom. Consequently, the Nikkor 28-135mm F/4 PZ will incorporate an internal motor designed for seamless zooming. Nikon has confirmed that this upcoming product will be compatible with full-frame and mirrorless Nikon Z-mount/FX-format cameras, offering both autofocus and manual focus options.
Now, let’s discuss other potential announcements from Nikon. The details regarding the camera models listed below remain unverified. One such model is the Nikon Z80.
Positioned between the Nikon Z90 and Nikon Z50 II, this camera is anticipated to feature a 24-megapixel DX partially stacked BSI CMOS sensor, along with active pixel image stabilization and the capability to record 4K video at 60 fps without any cropping.
However, information regarding the Z80 camera concept is still quite limited.
The source has provided an image, a sketch from a patent document that may be associated with the Nikon Z4 camera.
Judging by the drawing, this is a compact case made in a minimalist style. It is somewhat reminiscent of the Sony FX3/FX30 model.
The absence of an electronic viewfinder on the rear is notable. This patent clearly indicates that Nikon is concentrating on creating an affordable full-frame camera, enabling users to access full-frame technology at a remarkably low price point.
