That’s a weird news, not even a rumor. Nikon is said to withdraw from SLR camera development.

Reported by Nihon Keizai Shimbun, here are the main points (machine translated):

• Nikon withdraws from development of single-lens reflex camera
• Existing models will continue to be produced and sold for the time being
• Introducing artificial intelligence (AI) and image processing technology and concentrating on the development of mirrorless cameras that are becoming mainstream in the market
• Canon also plans to end the development of the flagship model of SLR cameras within a few years
• Nikon directs development resources to mirrorless cameras, which are expected to grow
• It is easy for mirrorless cameras to be equipped with digital technology, and there is a large margin for expansion of shooting functions.
• Mirrorless cameras are cheaper than single-lens reflex cameras, which have the same functions as the price of less than 100,000 yen.
• By improving the performance of image sensors and processing engines, it is becoming possible to use it like a single-lens reflex camera without any discomfort.

Uh, I do not know what to think here. But given that Canon seems also set to abandon SLR development, it might be plausible that Nikon will too. Any ideas? The future present is mirrorless, I guess.

[via asobinet]