Fujifilm X-A1 name trademarked ahead of camera’s announcement

Fujifilm has registered the X-A1 name at the South Korean Radio Research Agency (RRA), suggesting that the mirrorless camera is getting closer to its release.

Fujifilm has introduced a more entry-level X-Trans camera earlier this year. It is called X-M1 and it features an X-Trans sensor, but it comes packed without a built-in viewfinder.

The X-M1 is placed just under the X-E1. However, the X-mount is not complete, yet, as it is totally lacking a true low-end camera for photographers ready to ditch their compact cameras or who are thinking about moving away from smartphone photography.

Fujifilm X-A1 name has just been trademarked in South Korea. The camera is rumored to be announced soon without an X-Trans sensor, in order to become the cheapest X-mount shooter.

Fujifilm X-A1 name registered at the South Korean Radio Research Agency

According to the rumor mill, the Fujifilm X-A1 will be a dealbreaker for these people, as the camera will not have an X-Trans sensor, which will make it inherently much cheaper.

This codename has been leaked by inside sources on a previous basis, but Fuji fans have been longing for a more official confirmation.

Good things come for those who wait, so we can safely assume that the X-A1 is coming soon, considering the fact that the company has just registered this trademark at the Radio Research Agency in South Korea.

Fujifilm X-A1 might feature WiFi connectivity just like the X-M1

Product manufacturers have to go through an approval process, in order to be allowed to sell a device in a specific country.

It is a bit weird to see the Fujifilm X-A1 name appear in Korea’s RRA, but the camera might feature WiFi. The application reveals only that the shooter will feature “specific low power wireless” technology.

Although the X-M1 packs WiFi, it does not mean that the X-A1 will have it, too, therefore do no get your hopes high yet.

X-A1 will not borrow its image sensor from the X100

Other leaked information says that the X-A1 will be manufactured in the same country as the X-M1. The latter is made in Thailand, meaning that the former will also be produced in the Asian country.

On the other hand, people familiar with the matter say that Fuji will not put the X100 sensor into the X-A1. This means that a new sensor is coming along with the camera. The price tag for body-only is expected to fall somewhere between $400 and $500.

Fujifilm X-A1 will be launched alongside a new lens, the XC 50-230mm f/4.5-6.7. Both products will be revealed during the third quarter of this year, but they will be released in Q4 2013.

The X-M1 can be pre-ordered at Amazon and B&H Photo Video for $699.95 and $699, respectively.