Samsung will not be introducing a new GX digital SLR camera for the foreseeable future, due to the pressures of researching and manufacturing the new Samsung NX series camera system, according to Seung Soo Park, vice president of the strategy marketing team of Samsung?s digital media business.
Speaking during a closed session for UK press at the IFA conference, Park indicated that the company?s GX series of DSLRs would be put on hold while the NX series of mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras is developed. While GX10 and GX20 cameras are still on sale across the globe the shift of concentration will appear a serious blow for those who have invested in the GX series already. Samsung Camera UK MD Robert King added that while the company will continues to support GX users with accessories and repairs it is unlikely that any new product will be launched while the NX is in development.
The move echoes that of Panasonic which has abandoned its SLR business in favour of growing a Micro Four Thirds mirror-less design, although the company?s official line is that another L series full Four Thirds camera cannot be ruled out.
Samsung stated at the launch of the GX10 in September 2006 that it aimed to produce professional level cameras and although still not specifically saying so, SS Park indicated that the company would remain interested in servicing the sector of the DSLR market not covered by the extended NX series. Only last year Samsung claimed that, within three years, it would be in the top three for DSLR manufacturers.
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