OM Digital Solutions Introduces OM-1 Flagship

OM Digital Solutions, formerly known as Olympus, has unveiled its first camera under the new OM SYSTEM brand. Though the Olympus name remains on the OM-1, the company states that this is a nod to the company’s history and that future OM SYSTEM cameras will not include Olympus branding.

The OM-1 is an advancement of the Olympus OM-D E-M1 series cameras, similar to the E-M1 Mark III and E-M1X in design but with enhanced capabilities. The 20-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor is a new Stacked BSI (backside-illuminated) type and is paired with the latest TruePix X image processor that’s three times faster than its predecessor. The combination enables an increase in maximum ISO to 102,400 and improved dynamic range compared to previous models. Sensor-shift image stabilization is built in, providing up to 7 stops of correction with the camera alone and up to 8 stops with select lenses.

Another highlight of the OM-1 made possible with the new processor is an evolution of the system’s computational photography technologies, which make possible features like in-camera focus stacking, HDR and hi-res composites up to 80 megapixels.

The OM-1’s AF system is also new, with 1,053 cross-type focus points and the ability to calculate focus and exposure fast enough for 50 fps continuous shooting with full AF/AE tracking. With the focus and exposure locked on the first frame, the camera’s burst shooting increases to an incredibly fast 120 fps at the camera’s full resolution.

Availability of the OM-1 is expected in March at a list price of $2,199 for the body only, or in a kit with the M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm F2.8 PRO II, also introduced today, for $2,799.

The M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm F2.8 PRO II kit lens is one of two lenses announced along with the OM-1. With its fast constant aperture of ƒ/2.8 and a 35mm equivalent focal length range of 24-80mm, it’s a great value as a kit lens for just $600 more when purchased with the camera. Bought separately, it’s priced at $999.

The other new lens is the M.Zuiko Digital ED 40-150mm F4.0 PRO. Equivalent to 80-300mm and priced at $899, it’s an excellent companion to the kit lens. Together they cover an impressive wide to tele range for under $2,000. 

Both lenses include extensive weather sealing to match the OM-1 camera. For additional details on the OM-1 and new lenses, see the press releases below.

###

Introducing the OM SYSTEM OM-1 Interchangeable Lens Camera with a New Stacked BSI Live MOS Sensor and Cross Quad Pixel AF

The New OM SYSTEM Flagship Model Revolutionizes Emerging Technology and Newly Developed Devices

Bethlehem, PA, February 15, 2022 – OM Digital Solutions is pleased to announce the introduction of the OM SYSTEM OM-1: This Micro Four Thirds System standard interchangeable lens camera features a compact, lightweight design for superior mobility along with high image quality. It is scheduled to go on sale in early March 2022. As the OM SYSTEM flagship camera, this model will deliver a one-of-a-kind experience to customers, driving the desire for photographers to create. This interchangeable lens camera delivers inspiration in a lightweight design that users can take along anywhere to capture the precise photos they have in mind.

The OM SYSTEM OM-1 is the culmination of new devices and cutting-edge digital technologies, delivering high image quality that goes beyond the expectation of the sensor size. It also features autofocus and sequential shooting performance that far surpasses conventional models, and dramatically improves basic performance. Computational photography technology has been incorporated, empowering the photographer to utilize such features as Live Composite and High Res Shot mode, without the need for advanced shooting techniques, special equipment, or skills, delivering a rich variety of expressive power for more photographic opportunities than ever before.

Thanks to the superb mobility of the Micro Four Thirds system, the OM SYSTEM OM-1 can be taken anywhere at any time, allowing anyone to take advantage of its high performance to capture versatile images with high image quality. This is the next generation Micro Four Thirds camera brought to you by OM SYSTEM.

MAIN FEATURES:

1. High image quality that goes beyond the expectations of the sensor size

This model features a high-end compact, lightweight body unique to OM SYSTEM, including the new 20 Megapixel¹ Stacked BSI Live MOS sensor, and the latest TruePic X image processor, which is three times faster than previous models. The OM SYSTEM OM-1 delivers high image quality that goes beyond the expectations of the sensor size. Not only does it take full advantage of high-resolution M.Zuiko Digital lens performance, delivering our highest ever resolution², but new noise processing technology increases the maximum normal sensitivity to ISO 25600, and an expanded maximum sensitivity to ISO 102400. Furthermore, the dynamic range has been improved thanks to the latest image processing technology. These improvements deliver a richer range of tonal expressions than ever before, from shadows to highlights.

The high-performance image stabilization in the OM SYSTEM OM-1 delivers up to 8.0 steps3 of compensation with 5-axis sync IS, and up to 7 steps4 with the body alone. The new Handheld Assist feature makes it easy to capture slow shutter speed effects that previously required a tripod.

2. Computational photography functions that empower the photographer to further expand their imaging expressions

Photographic expressions that have traditionally required special equipment and a computer to composite images are available in the OM SYSTEM OM-1. Thanks to computational photography (advanced digital image processing) technology, these imaging features have been incorporated in this interchangeable lens camera at an early stage. The OM SYSTEM OM-1 uses a combination of the new TruePic X image processor, the new image sensor, and the latest digital technologies to make computational photography features better and even easier to use. When paired with high-performance M.Zuiko PRO lenses, the system makes it possible to capture a greater range of imaging expressions only possible with the OM SYSTEM OM-1.

• High-Res Shot

The processing time has been significantly reduced. Handheld High-Res Shot mode takes approximately five seconds to merge. Popular for landscape photos due to the ability to capture high-resolution approximately 50 Megapixel images by merging multiple images; and Tripod High-Res Shot, which creates ultra-high-resolution approximately 80 Megapixel images. Composite processing technology reduces noise by approximately two steps for amazingly high pixel count and low noise. A dedicated button is also included on the camera to quickly switch between normal shooting and Handheld High-Res Shot/Tripod High Res Shot for improved usability.

Create slow shutter speed effects as though you were using an ND filter up to ND64 (six steps) (ND2 – ND64). When LV Simulation is activated, you can check the slow shutter speed effects in the viewfinder and on the LCD monitor before shooting and create the same effects while using ultra-wide-angle lenses that cannot accommodate an ND filter.

• Live Composite

In this setting, Lighten Composite is used to add only the brighter sections to the composite image to prevent the common problem of images that are too bright overall when shooting long exposures, resulting in beautiful photos with plenty of variation. This feature is now compatible with image stabilization and can be used during handheld shooting.

• Focus Stacking

This feature alters the focus to capture and composite multiple shots for recording photos that are in focus from the foreground to background. The compositing time has been dramatically reduced for easier use.

• HDR Shooting

Multiple images at differing exposures are merged to create one shot with a wide dynamic range, including highlights and shadows.

3. High-speed performance of newly developed autofocus and dramatically improved performance for maximum 50 fps⁵ sequential shooting with AF/AE tracking

A quad-division photo diode configuration allows for On-chip Phase Detection in both vertical and horizontal directions. 1,053-point, all cross-type, Cross Quad Pixel AF is incorporated; designed to focus on various patterns of subjects across all pixels and the entire shooting range. The high-speed calculation capabilities of the new TruePic X processor and the new AF algorithm enable high-speed, high precision focusing on the subject no matter where it is in the frame. Furthermore, this model is equipped with AI Detection AF, which was developed using deep learning technology. In addition to greater than ever high-speed, high-precision subject recognition and tracking, this model can recognize formula cars, motorcycles, airplanes, helicopters, trains, and birds, as well as animals (dogs and cats). In addition to C-AF, this functionality is also supported with S-AF for shooting a wider variety of scenes. The detection precision, tracking performance, and responsiveness of Face Priority/Eye Priority AF have been improved significantly.

There have also been exponential improvements to sequential shooting performance, reaching up to 50 fps blackout free AF/AE tracking at approximately 20.37 Megapixel, and up to 120 fps AF/AE locked ultra-high-speed sequential shooting. When using Pro Capture, which is designed for capturing shots that are not possible during normal shooting, you can enjoy sequential shooting up to 50 fps (AF/AE tracking) and up to 120 fps (AF/AE locked).

4. Camera body features enhanced dustproof and splashproof performance, along with a high-speed, high-resolution electronic viewfinder

The dustproof and splashproof performance is achieved by incorporating sealing materials at the appropriate locations on the tough, lightweight magnesium alloy body, ensuring IP53 dustproof and splashproof protection class⁶, and freezeproof performance to -10°C. Because this model is compact, lightweight, and features dustproof and splashproof performance, it makes for a powerful ally when shooting in punishing environments. The high-performance EVF is equipped with approximately 5.76 million dot resolution, a viewfinder magnification of up to 1.65x, a display delay of 0.005 seconds⁷, and 120 fps high-speed display, to ensure optimal shooting comfort. Not only does it feature all the best facets of an optical viewfinder, but it also offers the advantages of a digital viewfinder, making it possible to view subjects and check exposure, even in dark locations. The menu screen configuration has been completely redesigned on the OM SYSTEM OM-1. Items have been split, merged, and reclassified, and descriptions have been simplified to make it easier to find the desired functions, and make changing settings simpler for first-time users.

5. Enhanced video functions for creators (10bit 4K 60p, Full HD 240p)

Stable handheld video recording is possible thanks to a compact, lightweight body and industry-leading image stabilization. Creative video functions include 4K 60p for smooth, high-definition videos, and high-speed movie with Full HD videos at a maximum 240p. The camera also supports H.264 (8bit), H.265 (10bit), and Multi Frame Rate for recording video clips over 30 minutes in length. In addition to RAW data output up to 12 bit 4:4:4 to external devices for advanced post-production tasks, the OM SYSTEM OM-1 supports OM-Log for a greater level of freedom over imaging expressions thanks to color grading, which allows users to capture highlights and shadows without overexposing or underexposing shots. The new HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma)⁸ video picture mode has been added for easier HDR video recording.

Other Features

• Reliable SSWF (Supersonic Wave Filter) dust reduction system that vibrates at a speed of more than 30,000 times per second to instantly remove dirt and dust from the image sensor
• Highly durable shutter unit that clears 400,000 shutter actuations (according to in-house testing conditions)
• Staggered layout UHS-II compatible dual SD card slots make it easier to remove recording media
• Five rating categories in the on-camera rating system
• Night view mode makes it possible to view subjects even in dark environments
• Starry Sky AF makes focusing on stars easier than ever
• Record shooting location information with minimal power drain (smartphone connection)
• Equipped with an independent AEL button and AF-ON button

PRICING & AVAILABILITY

OM SYSTEM OM-1 (Body Only)

Pricing: $2,199.99 USD; $2,799.99 CAD

Approximate Availability date: Early March 2022

OM SYSTEM OM-1 Kit with M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm F2.8 PRO II

Pricing: $2,799.99 USD; $3,599.99 CAD

Approximate Availability date: Early March 2022

SEPARATELY AVAILABLE ACCESSORIES:

HLD-10, Power Battery Holder (sold separately)

This power battery holder designed exclusively for the OM SYSTEM OM-1 offers the same controls in the vertical position as the horizontal position. It offers IP53 dustproof and splashproof construction when paired with the OM SYSTEM OM-1. When two BLX-1 Lithium-Ion Rechargeable Batteries in the camera and the HLD-10 are used together, approximately 1,000 shots (based on CIPA tests) can be captured. When attached to the OM SYSTEM OM-1, the BLX-1 Lithium-Ion Rechargeable Battery can be charged⁹ inside the HLD-10.

Pricing: $349.99 USD; $449.99 CAD
Approximate Availability date: Early March 2022

RM-WR1, Wireless Remote Control (sold separately)

This wireless remote-control features IP57¹⁰ dustproof and splashproof construction, enabling remote shooting (communication range: within 5 m of the camera body) in any kind of environment, when paired with the OM SYSTEM OM-1. It enables remote shutter release, control of autofocus, image display control between still images and videos, as well as release lock during long exposures. This power saving design is achieved using Bluetooth^® Low Energy communication. It can be used to start and stop video recording and connects with the included cable for wired remote use. The RM-WR1 can also be used as a wired remote control when connected using the cable included with Micro Four Thirds camera models equipped with a compatible remote cable terminal, such as the Olympus OM-D E-M1X and the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III.

Pricing: $99.99 USD; $129.99 CAD

Approximate Availability date: Early March 2022

BLX-1 Lithium-Ion Rechargeable Battery (bundled/sold separately)

This is a high-capacity, 2,280 mAh lithium-ion battery. It can be recharged approximately 500 times.

Pricing: $99.99 USD; $129.99 CAD
Approximate Availability date: Early March 2022

BCX-1 Battery Charger (sold separately)¹¹

This dedicated charger can simultaneously charge two BLX-1 Lithium-Ion Rechargeable Batteries. Batteries are fully charged in approximately 150 minutes. Because the battery is compatible with the USB Power Delivery standard, it can be charged with a power bank (9V/3A output).

Pricing: $149.99 USD; $189.99 CAD
Approximate Availability date: Early March 2022

SBCX-1 Battery Charger (sold separately)

BCX-1 battery charger bundled with one BLX-1 lithium-ion battery.

Pricing: $219.99 USD; $279.99 CAD

Approximate Availability date: Early March 2022

APPLICATIONS/SOFTWARE FOR PHOTOGRAPHY AND EDITING SUPPORT

OM Image Share Smartphone App (OI.Share)

This smartphone app is used to connect to the camera via Wi-Fi, transfer images and shooting data, and perform remote operations. On the OM SYSTEM OM-1, OI.Share can be used to update the firmware on the camera body and backup/restore camera settings.

OM Workspace v2.0 Image Editing Software

This image editing software includes advanced RAW processing and editing features. It boosts the abilities of the USB RAW Data Edit feature on the OM SYSTEM OM-1 and enables editing such as tone curve and Dehaze adjustments in addition to processing settings that can be applied on the camera. AI Noise Reduction has been added for RAW processing. When applied to RAW files captured on a supported camera¹² for processing, it helps generate clearer images.

Company names and product names contained in this release are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies.

1. Number of effective pixels: Approx. 20.4 Megapixel. Total number of pixels: Approx. 22.9 Megapixel.

2. As of 15.02 2022. On a comparison with OMDS interchangeable lens cameras. According to our in-house research.

3. Lens used for 8.0 step image stabilization: M.Zuiko Digital ED 150-400mm F4.5 TC1.25x IS PRO, focal length: f=150mm (35mm equivalent focal length: f=300mm), halfway release image stabilization OFF, frame rate: high speed, CIPA standard compliant, when correction is carried out on two axes (yaw/pitch)

4. Lens used for body only 7.0 step image stabilization: M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm F2.8 PRO, focal length: f=40mm (35mm equivalent focal length: f=80mm), CIPA standard compliant, when correction is carried out on two axes (yaw/pitch)

5. When using a compatible lens. Please see product website for details.

6. When paired with a dustproof and splashproof lens (according to lens standard). This does not apply during charging or HDMI connection.

7. When 120 fps high-speed frame rate is selected.

8. An HLG-compatible monitor is required for HDR video playback.

9. The BLX-1 Lithium-Ion Rechargeable Battery cannot be charged in the HLD-10 alone.

10. When using wireless connection. IP51 when using wired connection via cable.

11. This product does not include F-7AC USB-AC Adapter, CB-USB13 USB Cable, or BLX-1 Lithium-Ion Rechargeable Battery. Please use the accessories included with the OM SYSTEM OM-1.

12. Supported cameras: OM SYSTEM OM-1, E-M1 Mark II, E-M1 Mark III, E-M1X, E-M5 Mark III. Additional programs and supported data must be downloaded.

###

Introducing A “New Classic” Standard Zoom Lens and the World’s Most Compact, Lightweight¹ Telephoto Zoom Lens

M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm F2.8 PRO II and M.Zuiko Digital ED 40-150mm F4.0 PRO

Bethlehem, PA, February 15, 2022 – OM Digital Solutions is pleased to announce two new Micro Four Thirds System standard compliant M.Zuiko PRO lenses: The M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm F2.8 PRO II (35mm equivalent: 24-80mm) is a high-performance, standard zoom lens featuring the brightness of F2.8 across the entire zoom range from wide-angle 24mm equivalent to mid-range telephoto 80mm equivalent¹. This is the successor to the popular classic Micro Four Thirds M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm F2.8 PRO standard zoom lens (released November 29, 2013) and offers improved image quality and weather-resistant performance thanks to the latest technologies.

The M.Zuiko Digital ED 40-150mm F4.0 PRO (35mm equivalent: 80-300mm) is a compact, lightweight telephoto zoom lens that covers a broad focal length range from mid-range 80mm equivalent² to telephoto 300mm equivalent². This high-performance M.Zuiko PRO lens is the world’s most compact, lightweight model¹, featuring a fixed maximum aperture value of F4.0.

AVAILABLE WITH BOTH LENSES

Reliable weather-resistant performance for stress-free shooting even in punishing environments 

• Advanced IP53 dustproof and splashproof performance, and freezeproof performance to 14°F

Both lenses clear the IPX3 and higher splashproof tests, far exceeding the conventional IPX1 rating, as well as dustproof tests. Both feature IP53 dustproof and splashproof performance for peace of mind in even more punishing conditions. They can also function in low-temperature environments down to 14°F, and pairing these lenses with a dustproof, splashproof, and freezeproof camera body makes it possible to continue shooting in punishing environments such as rain, snow, and even dusty environments with peace of mind.

• Fluorine coating added

In addition to water, oil, and dust repellent performance, the fluorine coating on the front-most lens reduces friction. Both lenses can easily be cleaned with a blower or cloth when dirty, allowing users to continue shooting immediately.

MAIN FEATURES: M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm F2.8 PRO II

1. Further improved high image quality and a compact, lightweight design in a standard zoom lens with a fixed maximum aperture of F2.8

• Optical design with 14 elements in nine groups for excellent resolution across the entire zoom range

This model uses an optical design with 14 elements in nine groups (one EDA lens, two aspherical lenses, one DSA lens, two ED lenses, one HD lens, two HR lenses) with four aspherical lenses including a DSA lens effectively placed to achieve a compact, lightweight form and superior depictive performance expected of an M.Zuiko PRO lens. Effectively compensating for aberrations that occur when zooming, results in high resolution from the center to the edges of the frame across the entire zoom range, from wide-angle 24mm equivalent to mid-telephoto 80mm equivalent¹. This high-performance lens fully utilizes the high image quality performance of the camera body when using High Res Shot mode.

• Clearer, sharper imaging than ever before

The latest manufacturing techniques suppress surface scattering on aspherical lenses, significantly reducing flares compared to conventional products, resulting in clearer depictive performance. Optimal placement of coating, including ZERO (Zuiko Extra-low Reflection Optical) coating, improves resistance in backlit situations.

2. Versatile features for a wide range of applications, including macro shooting

• Close-up shooting performance with a maximum image magnification of 0.6×1

This lens features a closest focusing distance of 20 cm across the entire zoom range. At the wide-angle end, users can enjoy macro shooting with an enhanced sense of perspective, and at the telephoto end a maximum image magnification of 0.6x that rivals half-macro lenses, for authentic close-up shooting. The lens is capable of various styles of macro shooting and includes support for Focus Stacking which is useful for close-up shooting.

• A MSC mechanism enables high-speed, silent AF

The compact, lightweight focusing unit consisting of two cemented lenses is powered by a linear motor driving MSC (Movie and Still Compatible) mechanism, resulting in high-speed, silent AF. This design makes shooting still images and videos easy. The lens is capable of approximately 50 fps (AF/AE tracking) sequential shooting when paired with the new OM SYSTEM OM-1, thanks to advanced camera control technology.

• Superb controls for quick setting changes

Pull the focus ring toward you to instantly switch to manual focus with the Manual Focus Clutch mechanism and use the L-Fn (lens function) button to control the lens with a single finger. These features allow users to quickly switch settings as needed to continue shooting without delay.

PRICING & AVAILABILITY:

M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm F2.8 PRO II

$999.99 USD; $1,299.99 CAD

Availability date: Early March 2022

BUNDLED ACCESSORIES:

LH-66D Lens Hood

This lens hood is designed exclusively for the M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm F2.8 PRO and M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm F2.8 PRO II. It reduces unwanted light entering the lens in backlit scenes and protects the lens.

MAIN FEATURES: M.Zuiko Digital ED 40-150mm F4.0 PRO

1. The world’s most compact, lightweight¹ and high image quality telephoto zoom lens

• Excellent resolution across the entire zoom range from 80mm to 300mm

This lens uses the same fundamental structure as the M.Zuiko Digital ED 40-150mm F2.8 PRO, which is well known for its high resolution, and incorporates an optical design with 15 elements in nine groups (two ED lenses, one Super ED lens, one HR lens and two aspherical lenses). An effective layout of special lenses helps to thoroughly suppress chromatic aberration, which tends to occur with telephoto lenses, and delivers high-resolution imaging from the maximum aperture value across the entire zoom range and frame while maintaining a compact and lightweight form. The lens also features ZERO (Zuiko Extra-low Reflection Optical) coating, thoroughly eliminating ghosts and flares for clear depictive performance even in difficult conditions such as backlit scenes. This high-performance lens fully utilizes the high image quality performance of the camera body even when using High Res Shot mode.

• The world’s most compact, lightweight model¹ delivers unrivaled portability, and an inner zoom system improves usability

A retracting mechanism makes this the world’s most compact, lightweight model as a fixed aperture value, 300mm equivalent (35mm equivalent) telephoto zoom lens, measuring approximately 99.4 mm long (124 mm long when in use) and weighing approximately 382 g, making it amazingly compact and lightweight. The lens was designed with a focus on ease of use when shooting and is equipped with a mechanism that makes it possible to retract and store the lens simply by turning the zoom ring. It also uses an inner zoom system that keeps the lens length the same across the entire focal length, suppressing center of gravity changes while zooming. Using compact, lightweight lenses in the front drastically reduces the feeling of heaviness, eliminating the long lens barrel and weight at the front of the lens, which is common to telephoto lenses, making shooting easier and more well-balanced.

2. Closest focusing distance of 70 cm (at all focal distances), and macro capabilities with a maximum image magnification of 0.41x²

This model features a closest focusing distance of 70 cm across the entire zoom range, just like the M.Zuiko Digital ED 40-150mm F2.8 PRO. At the telephoto end, close-up shooting is possible up to a maximum image magnification of 0.41x. Despite being a telephoto zoom, this lens also possesses superior close-up shooting performance for a wide range of applications. Focus Stacking3 is also supported, which captures multiple shots at different focal positions, and then automatically composites the shot. When paired with a compatible camera, this mode allows you take macro photos that are completely in focus from the front to the back of the image.

PRICING & AVAILABILITY:

M.Zuiko Digital ED 40-150mm F4.0 PRO

$899.99 USD; $1,149.99 CAD

Availability date: Early March 2022

BUNDLED ACCESSORIES:

LH-66E Lens Hood

This lens hood is specifically designed for the M.Zuiko Digital ED 40-150mm F4.0 PRO. It reduces unwanted light entering the lens in backlit scenes and protects the lens.

LC-62G Lens Cap

Company names and product names contained in this release are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies.

1. As of February 15, 2022. The world’s most compact, lightweight model as a fixed aperture, 300mm equivalent (35mm equivalent) telephoto zoom lens. Our in-house research.

2. 35mm equivalent.

3. The camera firmware may need to be updated to use this feature. See the website for information on supported cameras and firmware versions.

###