Ricoh GR 16.3-megapixel APS-C camera release date is May 2013?

Ricoh is rumored to unveil a new APS-C camera with a CMOS image sensor, as the shooter’s specs, release date, and price have been leaked on the web.

When Ricoh purchased Pentax, photography fans were sure that the company will release a new version of the GR Digital IV camera. However, late 2011 has been long gone and the GR Digital IV is almost two years old.

The new Ricoh GR camera will borrow plenty of features and traits from other shooters. For example, the design will be inspired by the original GR Digital apparatus, while the image sensor will be borrowed from the Pentax K-5 II / K-5 IIs.

Ricoh GR digital camera details leaked in bulk

Ricoh is looking to get back into the camera business. The company can only do so by releasing a new device. According to sources familiar with the matter, this is exactly what is going to happen in the near future, thanks to a shooter called “GR”.

An insider has revealed important information detailing the upcoming camera. It appears that Ricoh will remove both the Roman numerals and the “Digital” tag from the camera’s name, meaning that the apparatus will merely be called GR.

Pentax will lend its 16.3MP APS-C image sensor from the K-5 II / K-5 IIs to Ricoh

The Ricoh GR will feature the same sensor as the Pentax K-5 II and K-5 IIs cameras, measuring 16.3-megapixel. The APS-C CMOS image sensor will receive help from a 28mm f/2.8 lens without integrated image stabilization technology.

Its design will not be very different from the Ricoh GR1, as its form factor and color will be very similar. The camera will come packed in a bigger body than the GR Digital IV one, though tinier and more lightweight than the Nikon Coolpix A one.

Additionally, the Ricoh GR will employ a dedicated Fn button, as well as quicker autofocus speed. Nikon Coolpix A is seen as a rival for the GR, therefore Ricoh decided to bring faster AF technology to the market, surpassing most of its competitors. However, the GR will focus slower than the Fujifilm X100s.

Late April announcement is imminent, while release date is bound for May 2013

The Ricoh GR release date is scheduled for mid-May and the announcement date will occur later this month. The camera’s price tag will stand at 100,000 Japanese yens, which account for about $1,010.

These are all the details coming from Japan, but it is worth reminding that they are part of a rumor. Ricoh has not officially confirmed an event for late April. However, more information should be revealed soon.