Tokyo, Japan—Nikon Corporation, parent company of Nikon Inc., announced that sales of its DL premium, compact, point-and-shoot camera series will be canceled. Nikon had planned to launch the DL18–50 f/1.8–2.8, DL24–85 f/1.8–2.8 and DL24–500 f/2.8–5.6 models.
A June 2016 release was originally scheduled for the DL camera series. “However, with the identification of issues with the integrated circuit for image processing, release of the three cameras was delayed indeterminately,” the company said.
“Since then, everyone involved has worked very hard to develop products with which our customers will be satisfied. However, it has been decided that sales of the DL series will be canceled due to concerns regarding their profitability considering the increase in development costs, and the drop in the number of expected sales due to the slow-down of the market.
“We sincerely apologize to all those affected by this decision. Especially to those customers who waited so long for the cameras to be released, retailers and others whose business will be affected, for the inconvenience this decision may cause.”
Nikon DL Premium P&S Cameras
The three pocketable, high-end models were to offer various focal lengths optimized for different types of shooters. They were designed with Nikkor optics and a 20.8 megapixel (CX-format), 1-inch BSI CMOS sensor. They paired with a new Expeed 6A image processor.
The DL series was also to feature a high-speed hybrid autofocus (AF) system. The system employed 105 phase-detection focus areas (with 171 focus points in contrast-detection AF mode). Specs stated the cameras would produce 20-frames-per-sec continuous shooting for capturing fast action (60 fps with fixed AF), RAW capture, as well as 4K UHD video recording. Dual Detect Optical VR technology was incorporated to compensate for camera shake while shooting handheld or at slower shutter speeds.
Each DL compact was to employ a unique lens design to produce high resolution and pleasing background blur (bokeh) with fast apertures. The lens barrels sported manual focus rings to give users more control over focus. The lenses were also equipped with a fluorine coating to help repel dirt, water and oil. And for the first time in a Nikon compact camera, the DL18–50’s lens was to use Nano Crystal Coat. This technology reduces ghosting and flare.
The high-end line was to operate with the familiar Nikon DSLR menu design. This included an assortment of PSAM full manual controls and 20+ preset creative options. In addition, they were to have 1,037K-dot OLED touch displays. nikonusa.com
