The new Ricoh GR IV is officially on the horizon, and compact camera fans have every reason to get hyped. Set to drop in autumn 2025, with a highlight diffusion filter (HDF) variant landing later that winter, the GR IV aims to be the boldest evolution of the legendary GR series yet. Ricoh promises a completely redesigned lens, image sensor, and imaging engine—core updates that hint at next-level image quality and performance. Long praised for its stealthy size and street-photography prowess, the GR line may now be stepping into a new era.

But this isn’t just about pixels and processors. Ricoh teases “more advanced communications functions” and an all-new smartphone app to enhance usability—key improvements for photographers looking to shoot, edit, and share seamlessly. There’s plenty to dream about for longtime GR users, like those still clinging to the GR IIIx: better autofocus, sturdier build quality, maybe even a tilt screen or built-in flash—all on the wishlist.

While the GR III will soon be phased out, the IIIx will stick around a bit longer, keeping Ricoh in the game as anticipation builds. Prototype units will be shown at GR Space showrooms in Tokyo, Beijing, and Shanghai later this month, giving the world a first look at what could be Ricoh’s most complete compact yet.

With sleek portability, professional-grade output, and a cult following already baked in, the Ricoh GR IV just might become the definitive camera for creatives on the go.

In related news, check out the Fujifilm X Half.