The retro Yashica name is coming to a new digital compact camera – and the upcoming camera looks like a cross between a keychain camera and a 1959 subminiature film camera. Teased on September 18, the Yashica Y16 Pocket Camera is a digital compact camera that blends modern viral trends with the look of a classic ultra-compact film point-and-shoot.
The upcoming Y16 takes inspiration from the camera by the same name that Yashica introduced in 1959. That original camera was a subminiature camera that used 16mm film loaded into a magazine and came with a tiny, colorful rectangular design.
As just a teaser, Yashica hasn’t shared full details on the new Y16 yet. But Yashica hasn’t been shy either, revealing that the upcoming camera will have a 12MP sensor and a built-in Xenon flash with three levels.
The camera will also have an optical viewfinder. But interestingly, Yashica says that the viewfinder will be “enhanced by motion-sensing technology.” That tech is typically used in electronic viewfinders to automatically switch from the LCD.
Yashica also says that the upcoming camera will be able to shoot videos as well as stills – something missing from two mini retro cameras announced earlier this week, the Instax Pal 2 and the Camp Snap 110D. All three cameras use a compact design, but one that’s more oblong than modern compact cameras – hinting at perhaps a new source of inspiration for retro camera designs.
Yashica says that the Y16 will launch in seven different color options.
“The camera preserves the compact size, approachable character, and timeless appeal that made the original Y16 memorable,” the company said in the teaser announcement. “It refines the experience through improvements in usability, portability, and image-making capabilities expected by today's users. Most importantly, it reimagines how a pocket camera fits into modern life, not only as a tool for capturing moments, but as a creative companion for self-expression, travel, social sharing, and everyday storytelling.”
While the company didn’t reveal full specifications, they did share a set of sample images that are all in a 16:9 aspect ratio.
The company says that full specifications and price will be shared sometime in early October, with pre-orders opening around the same time and shipping beginning in early November.
The modern Yashica isn’t the same company as the longstanding brand with a vivid history of film cameras. The Yashica trademark is now owned by a company based in Hong Kong. The brand’s latest launches tend to favor retro designs but at a more affordable price point, like the Yashica City, Yashica Tank, and Yashica FX-D series cameras.
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