Panasonic Lumix S9 supply shortages complete Fujifilm X100VI impersonation act despite bad press

Since its launch earlier this year, the Panasonic Lumix S9 has been embroiled in controversy. Between the corners Panasonic cut to arrive at such a small body and the fuss certain camera reviewers kicked up on YouTube, it seemed like the Lumix S9 was doomed from the start.

According to a recent statement by Panasonic itself, however, this perception couldn't be more incorrect, apparently. In the statement, Panasonic once again acknowledges its error in using stock images from other manufacturers, but then goes on to confirm that there will be some delays when the Lumix S9 starts shipping on June 20.

Regarding the above, we have started accepting pre-orders for the new LUMIX DC-S9 full-frame mirrorless interchangeable-lens camera, which is scheduled to be released on June 20th, but we have received more pre-orders than we expected. Therefore, some customers who have pre-ordered may not be able to receive the product on the release date. –Panasonic (machine translation)

These supply shortages echo those faced by Fujifilm customers who attempted to buy the Fujifilm X100V and X100VI, adding credence to the idea that smaller camera bodies with larger full-frame and APS-C sensors may be the future of consumer cameras in the mirrorless age, despite the rise of smartphones.

How things play out regarding the Lumix S9 after long-term reviews drop and the camera becomes generally available remains to be seen, but if it's anything like the Fujifilm X100VI, supply shortages will likely continue well into the future.

If you're looking for a compact camera that's in stock, check out the OM System OM-5 on Amazon while it's discounted to $999.