PetaPixel’s Bold Camera Predictions for 2026: New Tough, new PEN and new GF/GM cameras

Here is Petapixel’s 2026 BOLD camera prediction list. With BOLD they mean a bit over the top and unlikely to happen. When it comes to OM Digital and Panasonic this is what they had to say:

Jordan: think there will be a new OM Tough camera. And I do think OM is definitely working on a successor but the camera isn’t extremely old yet (announced in 2023). I am not sure there will be a new model in 2026…2027 seems more likely.

Richard Butler: He want OM/Lumix to make a small MFT camera (New PEN or GF/GX or GM). Panasonic could save some money and reuse the Lumix S9 body to save costs. But don’t think that’s a good idea, I like the smaller size of the GM series!

My take that a new PEN and GM are unlikely to happen. Why? Because I saw no hint that makes me think the management understood what’s going on on the market. And this while the PEN-7is selling hot, used Lumix MFT compact cameras price is increasing and CIPA reports the compact camera market is booming.

Sorry if I sound pessimistic, I really hope to be proven wrong!