Canon EOS R8 II said to keep 24MP sensor, add IBIS and retro design

Canon is preparing the budget full-frame mirrorless EOS R8 Mark II for a September launch, but insiders already call its sensor disappointing. According to CanonRumors, the new model will feature a 24-megapixel sensor, just like its predecessor — contrary to earlier expectations that it would inherit the 32.5MP CMOS from the EOS R6 Mark III.

It remains unclear whether this is the same sensor as in the original EOS R8 or a new 24MP chip with improved dynamic range and less noise at high ISO settings. CanonRumors' sources reaffirm a "retro design" for the camera, but it is unknown whether Canon will fully adopt the look of the coveted AE-1, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, or merely incorporate subtle retro accents.

On the technical side, at least two major upgrades over the older model are reportedly planned. First, the full-frame sensor in the EOS R8 Mark II is said to feature image stabilization (IBIS), allowing handheld shots to stay sharp even with relatively long exposure times. Second, Canon is said to add a second SD card slot, enabling photos to be saved to two memory cards so they aren't lost if one card fails.

The price is expected to remain in the affordable range: the current EOS R8 sells for $1,499 on Amazon. Canon has not officially confirmed any of this — all details come from leaks and rumors, which the company does not comment on.