Leica M12: Leica hints at upgrades and Heritage Edition for new full-frame camera
Rumors have been suggesting that the Leica M12 is expected to launch in the second half of 2026 or the first half of 2027. The compact full-frame rangefinder camera is said to get image stabilization for the first time, while the new sensor is expected to be developed by Leica and manufactured in Europe. As a reminder, the Leica M11 is equipped with a customized sensor from Sony.
Leica has now provided more hints about other changes and upgrades in a survey in which the company asks existing customers 17 questions solely about the underside of the camera. While the Leica M10 still had a baseplate that had to be completely removed in order to access the battery or memory card, the Leica M11 instead uses a battery that can be removed from the body via a slider, without any door or cover.
Leica hints at a new feature
This system saves space and, according to Leica, allows the company to fit a slightly larger battery. This design change was criticized at launch, since the design of the Leica M11 moved somewhat away from analog Leica M cameras. With this survey, Leica wants to find out which design customers prefer. It’s quite interesting that the depiction of the underside that is supposed to show the new design does not come from the Leica M11. Instead, it is a combination of the design of the Leica M11 and the Leica Q3.
The design in this picture has two advantages compared to the Leica M11. First, the slider that releases the battery from the body can be operated more easily in its new position while a quick-release plate is attached to the camera. Second, Leica adds three metallic contacts for accessories. On the Leica Q3, these are used for a handgrip that allows the camera to charge wirelessly on a Qi charging pad.
Baseplate could be exclusive for the Heritage Edition
In the survey, Leica also wants to know whether customers would be interested in a limited “Heritage Edition” that’s equipped with a classic baseplate. This suggests that the baseplate could make a comeback, but only in a limited edition and not as part of the regular Leica M12. The survey also suggests that such a design could result in a smaller battery.
Source(s)
Leica
Add as a preferred
