Canon issues EOS R3 development announcement

Front view of the new Canon EOS R3 camera with no lens fitted. (Source: Canon.)

Slotting into Canon’s professional camera line-up above the EOS R5 but a little below the EOS-1DX Mark III, the EOS R3 has similar ergonomics and vertical grip to the EOS-1D models. Technical specifications for the new camera have not been released as yet so readers will have to wait to find out the resolution of the new camera (rumours suggest 45-megapixels like the EOS R5) as well as its size and weight. We also have no information on its video capabilities. In addition, no details have been released on the expected availability of the EOS R3 in Australia, or its local pricing. Canon summarises the key features of the EOS R3 as high speed, high sensitivity and high reliability. Here’s what has been revealed so far:

1. The EOS R3 will have a new Canon-developed 35mm full-frame, back illuminated, stacked CMOS sensor, which will be paired with a powerful DIGIC X image processor (which was introduced with the 1D X Mark III in February 2020). Note: as well as offering enhanced sharpness and noise-reduction processing, the DIGIC X processor can handle 4K videos recorded at up to 120 fps or 8K videos at up to 30 fps.
2. Its high speed electronic shutter will support frame rates of up to 30 fps with AF/AE tracking of fast-moving subjects. The camera is claimed to significantly reduce image warping – a common challenge with electronic shutters.
3. Next-generation Dual Pixel CMOS Auto Focus (AF) will be capable of tracking subjects’ eyes and heads as well as including a new capability to detect subject torsos. Detection is possible while subjects are travelling at speed, a valuable feature for sports photographers. Canon has also revealed development is underway to enable detection of additional subject types.
4. The EOS R3 will be the first Canon digital camera with an Eye Control Function, a feature pioneered in the EOS 5 film camera, which was launched in 1992. It allows users will to select and move the AF point by simply looking at different areas of the field of view in the viewfinder, reducing the time required to shift focus, which is usually done with a multi-controller/button.
5. Build quality will be similar to the EOS-1D series and the EOS R3’s body will include an integrated vertical handgrip. Users can also expect the same level of dust and moisture resistance as the EOS-1D series.
6. The EOS R3 will be compatible with Canon’s Mobile File Transfer smartphone app, which supports fast file transfer via 5G mobile devices without the need for wired LAN equipment. Version 1.2 of Canon’s Mobile File Transfer smartphone app for iOS will be available via the Apple App Store in June 2021, with an Android version to be added at a future (undisclosed) date.

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