Olympus’ recent financial reports have shown bad news for the imaging division, with a 17% year on year decrease in revenue and continued operating losses. As the mirrorless market continues to heat up and there is increased competition, rumors have emerged that Olympus may soon shut down its imaging division altogether.
Photo Rumors is reporting that Olympus may be shutting down its camera division in as little as eight months, with unrest within the company. Olympus has been all in on micro four thirds in the digital age, and as prices have dropped on APS-C and full frame cameras, the viability of the micro four thirds market has come into question for some time, as the price advantage has shrunk considerably or in some cases, been eliminated entirely. For example, while the E-M1X is highly capable, at around $3,000, many photographers were left wondering why someone wouldn’t put that money toward a camera with a larger sensor.
Olympus is celebrating its 100th year in operation this year, and while it is unlikely the entire company is in trouble, it would be very sad to see the imaging division and all its history come to an end.