EOS R5 launched before Olympics, 1DX Mark III sales higher than expected

According to Nikkan Kogyo Shimbun (newswitch), Canon has decided to launch the EOS R5 and RF 100-400mm F4.5-7.1 as early as possible, before the Toyko Olympics that start on July 24th.  Canon states that the sales 1DX Mark III are higher than was expected for the camera.

The support, maintenance and service that Canon will have at the games is expected to the largest ever for any sporting event.   Canon always has the largest maintenance and service support during the Olympic games so it should be interesting to see how they accomplish this.  Usually, during past games, Canon would strip the various regional CPS's of equipment and personnel as they would all collect together for the games.  It could also mean that CPS coverage during the games will be significantly impacted.  Something to keep in mind if you are a CPS member. 

Canon's overall usage at the 2019 Rugby World Cup was approximately 70%, which is complete domination. However, Canon isn't satisfied with that number, thus the quick release of the EOS R5.  Canon feels that by adding the EOS R5 before the games, combined with strong sales of the 1DX Mark III, they can exceed the 70% usage at the Toyko Olympic games.

Going into the games, it appears as if Canon will be the only 8K player at the games with an actually released and publically available camera and not prototypes.  That will be a huge win for Canon.

Newswitch also mentions that the EOS R5 is intended for high amateurs but can withstand professional use.  This indicates to me, again, that Canon will have a professional camera sitting above the R5, the R1.

• via dclife.jp
• newswitch