Will Canon Launch a New Sony RX1R Competitor Soon?

The year 2025 has been all about smaller cameras. From Powershot V1 to X Half to the recently launched RX1R III, we have seen a variety of point-and-shoot cameras for different needs and users. In fact, the rise of compact cameras has further led one to believe that smartphone photography is not the same as it once was. While Canon has already created one fixed-lens device for beginners, the question of whether the company will launch another one looms in the air. It now appears we may have some answer to the question.

According to Canon Rumors, the company has never created a full-frame fixed lens camera in its history. And that is true. Most Canon cameras have a 1-inch sensor, with exceptions like the G1X Mark III, which has an APS-C sensor like the Ricoh GR series. While companies like Fujifilm, Leica, and Sony are focusing on catering to the full-frame camera users who prefer compactness, it appears that Canon is not thinking the same. While the idea is quite exciting, it won’t become a reality because the market is very niche.

The question, especially regarding the Leica Q series doing so well, has been asked of Canon. And it appears that the answer has been a firm no. It’s something the company does not even really think about. While there are reports of a new retro-style Canon camera, the chances of it being a full-frame compact camera are quite low. The retro design could be like Zf, a full-frame interchangeable camera, but there has been no confirmation yet about the same.

Canon has always been driven by market share, and that’s one of the reasons why it is so famous today. The company is looking to increase lens and camera manufacturing through automation, which can give it an upper hand over other countries. So, if the market for full-frame compacts is lower, there is no point for Canon to invest in it.

But honestly, just because the market is smaller does not dissuade them from trying to step out of their shadows. Canon has been neglecting a photographer’s needs with its latest launches, with some stating that the brand is more focused on content creators and videographers over image-makers. The anger stems from the launches of R5 II and R1, both of which have not been received well. But perhaps, maybe it’s time for Canon to try something else, allowing more compact designs to take the lead. There isn’t any harm in changing one’s strategy.

While Canon will launch more PowerShot cameras, they will be for beginners and casual shooters. As for professionals, they will have to work with offerings from competing brands, if they want a full frame device. How does Powershot fare, we will only know in the future. For now, its safe to say that Canon needs to reinvent itself, if it wishes to build a new legacy.