The Sony a7 series has been a mainstay in the full-frame mirrorless camera market since its introduction in 2013. Now on its fifth generation with the a7 IV, rumors are swirling about what we can expect from the upcoming Sony a7V. As Sony’s mid-range full-frame option, the a7 V will likely continue the tradition of offering strong video and imaging capabilities in a more compact form factor. According to latest rumors, the Sony a7 V is expected to be released in late 2024 to early 2025. Here are some key things we may see in the Sony a7 V based on technology trends and previous Sony releases:
Improved Sensor and Processor
The current a7 IV features a 33MP sensor paired with the latest Bionz XR processor. Given Sony’s pattern of updating these components each generation, we can expect to see at least a modest jump in megapixels along with processing gains. A 36-40MP backside-illuminated sensor is plausible, along with at least a generational upgrade to the Bionz processor. This should translate to noticeable improvements in dynamic range, low light performance, and processing speed.
Enhanced Video Capabilities
Video has been an area of focus for Sony, and the a7 IV upped capabilities to oversampled 4K 30p and 120p in 10-bit 4:2:2. The a7 V will likely take this further with features like 6K oversampling for higher resolution 4K as well as improved codec options like All-I compression for editing. Higher frame rates up to 240fps in 1080p are also likely. Sony has been touting real-time tracking autofocus powered by AI, so expect advancements there for both stills and video capturing fast-moving subjects.
Faster Shooting and Tracking Autofocus
Sony has made big strides in improving autofocus speed and accuracy in the a7 III and a7 IV. The a7 V will no doubt see refinements to both real-time tracking autofocus along with overall focusing computational power. This will translate into reliable subject tracking at up to 30 fps bursts when using the electronic shutter. Expect coverage to expand as well, along with AI smarts to identify and stay locked on subjects.
Better OLED Viewfinder and Rear LCD
The a7 IV saw resolution bumps on both the viewfinder and rear touchscreen LCD. For the a7 V, Sony will likely implement even higher resolution panels and possibly increase the rear LCD size from 3.0 to 3.2 or 3.5 inches. This would put it on par with the best mirrorless viewfinders and displays for critical image and video review. Refresh rates could also improve to make action shooting and playback smoother.
Improved Body Design
Ergonomics on the a7 IV got subtle tweaks from previous generations, but retained largely the same form factor. For the a7V, expect more significant changes to the body layout and controls to enhance handling, particularly for video shooters. The grip size may increase, and improved weather-sealing is also likely. Lens mount redesign is improbable given compatibility requirements, but inside could see improved dust resistance.
Dual Card Slots with CFexpress Type A Support
The a7 IV offers two SD card slots, but only one supports the faster UHS-II standard. Sony will likely add UHS-II support to both slots on the a7 V while potentially adding support for CFexpress Type A cards as well. This would provide an option for blazing fast write speeds to take advantage of the higher burst shooting rates and video bitrates.
USB 4.0 Connectivity
Faster wired connectivity will almost certainly come to the a7 V by implementing the latest USB 4.0 standard. This would enable rapid file transfers and charging compared to USB 3.2 in the a7 IV. Wireless connectivity is also likely to be enhanced with Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 radios.
Refined User Experience
Sony’s menu system is functional but complex. For the a7 V, expect refinements to settings organization and menu structure for more intuitive control and adjustment of the camera’s plethora of features. There could also be updates to the mobile app integration and transfer protocols to enhance the remote shooting and sharing experience.
New Lenses to Complement Release
Sony will likely timed the launch of the a7 V with some new lens introductions as well. Given the resolution boost, premium prime lenses like a 20mm f/1.4 G and 50mm f/1.2 G Master would make logical companions. Wider f/2.8 zooms as well as telephoto primes like a 135mm f/1.8 G Master would also keep with Sony’s recent lens strategy.
Pricing in the $2500 Range
Sony has staggered pricing across its three full-frame lines, so expect the a7 V to come in right between the $1999 a7 IV and $3499 a7R IV. A $2500 MSRP fits well given the expected feature improvements while leaving room for the higher megapixel a7R V. Discounts should bring the a7 V down closer to $2200 shortly after launch.
With its history of innovation and emphasis on speed, resolution, and versatility, Sony is well-positioned to deliver an exceptional all-around performer in the a7 V. Assuming development and supply chain challenges are avoided, the a7 V should reinforce Sony’s commitment to pushing the mirrorless market forward for both photographers and videographers alike. Incremental but meaningful improvements across sensor, processor, autofocus, video, and design should make the a7 V a compelling option in the competitive full-frame category.