Nikon Sues Viltrox, Leica's Future & OM System Travel

The Nikon vs. Viltrox Dispute

Legal Implications for Z-Mount

The most significant industry news is that Nikon has filed a lawsuit against Viltrox in China regarding Z-mount patent infringement. Key takeaways include:
• The dispute centers on royalties for the period during which Nikon's Z-mount patent was pending.
• It remains unclear if Nikon seeks a ban on Viltrox lenses or simply financial restitution.
• There is concern regarding the resale value of existing Viltrox lenses and potential firmware updates that could break compatibility.

"If these start bricking your lenses you've paid for, that's going to really suck."

OM System and Costa Rica Photography

The hosts discussed their recent trip to Costa Rica, emphasizing the utility of Micro Four Thirds gear in wildlife photography.
• Weight Advantage: The ability to handhold 1000mm equivalent lenses without a monopod was a game-changer for agility in humid, dense environments.
• The OM System Contest: OM System is currently running a street and travel photo contest. Participants can enter by using the hashtag #travelwithOMSystem on Instagram through February 16th.

Leica Business Outlook

Leica is exploring the possibility of selling a majority stake in its business. While reports suggest private equity interest, the hosts stress:
• The brand is currently in a very strong financial position.
• Niche Passion: The hope is that any new majority stakeholder maintains the company's photography-first culture rather than shifting to bean-counting management.

Technical Updates and Innovations

• Nikon Z8 Firmware: The latest update adds wired time code, a visual clipping point indicator on waveforms, and extends record times to six hours.
• Global Shutter Sensors: Sony has unveiled new global shutter image sensors. Chris Nichols mused about the potential for a digital twin-lens reflex (TLR) camera, though acknowledged the likely prohibitive cost.
• Film Distribution: Kodak is now bringing Ektar and Tri-X under their direct distribution, rebranding the boxes and moving closer to selling consumer and professional tiers under one umbrella.