OM Digital Solutions has confirmed that the Olympus PEN and Tough series of cameras will continue, alongside the OM-D bodies from which the new company took its name. It also committed to keeping the Olympus brand name "until Olympus fans are satisfied".
There had been speculation, particularly given the choice of name, that the company would only release cameras such as the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III and Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV, while discontinuing the likes of the Olympus PEN E-PL10 and Olympus Tough TG-6.
"Some may wonder if we are focusing only on the OM-D series," stated Setsuya Kataoka, OM Digital's chief technology officer, at CP+ 2021. "That is not the case. We will, of course, continue developing models in the Micro Four Thirds PEN series. The same goes for Tough compact digital cameras, Voice Trek and LS series IC recorders, and professional dictation products for some regions."
Kataoka also reaffirmed the company's commitment to the Micro Four Thirds format, as if it were ever in doubt.
"I would like you to know that we promise to continue developing the Micro Four Thirds System going forward. Although the company and its name have changed, our fundamental development philosophy remain the same, along with our mission of producing new products… we are proud to expand the Micro Four Thirds system lineup."
He also confirmed that the Olympus brand name will continue "until Olympus fans are satisfied" that the new company is continuing the established traditions and products that Olympus is known for.
"We will continue to use the Olympus brand for the time being, as a way to communicate the message that our fundamental philosophies are not changing… Although I cannot comment on exactly how long we’ll be using the Olympus brand name, plans are to carry on the name until Olympus fans are satisfied that OM Digital Solutions is continuing with the development and sale of new products in existing brands, while being independent of Olympus."
Interestingly, in a comment not translated into the English video, Kataoka added: "After that, if we need that new attitude, we will change it accordingly… Since I have permission to use either one [Olympus or new name] for the time being, it is a policy to put the name of Olympus on the pentaprism."
This suggests that a new name to succeed the Olympus brand has already been decided, and that OM Digital Solutions will adopt this when it is ready to embrace a 'new attitude' and identity.
Read more:
Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III review
Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV review
Olympus PEN E-PL10 review
Olympus Tough TG-6 review
Olympus LS-P1 review
