Ricoh GR IV Camera Launches This Fall with Key Upgrades

Ricoh has officially announced the upcoming release of its highly anticipated GR IV camera, scheduled for autumn 2025. This new model retains the compact and minimalist design that made the GR III popular among street photographers, but it introduces several noteworthy internal upgrades that enhance performance and usability.

The GR IV continues to feature the signature 28mm-equivalent f/2.8 lens, now redesigned with a new seven-element configuration including an additional aspherical element. This promises improved optical corrections and sharper images, a crucial upgrade for photographers who demand high-quality results in a compact form factor.

One of the most significant enhancements is the sensor upgrade. The GR IV sports a 26-megapixel APS-C sensor, a modest increase from the 24 megapixels in the GR III. This sensor also supports a much higher ISO range, reaching up to 204,800, enabling better low-light performance. Additionally, the camera now includes five-axis image stabilization, improving upon the previous three-axis system to reduce blur and enhance handheld shooting capabilities.

Autofocus capabilities have also been upgraded with the addition of face and eye detection, which helps maintain sharp focus on subjects in dynamic street photography scenarios. This feature is a welcome addition for users who rely on quick and accurate focusing in unpredictable environments.

In terms of storage, Ricoh has made a surprising shift by replacing full-size SD card support with microSD cards, but compensates with a substantial increase in onboard storage to 53GB, compared to just 2GB in the GR III. This change could appeal to photographers who value internal storage for quick shooting sessions without swapping cards.

The exterior design remains largely familiar, with subtle refinements such as redesigned buttons and a potentially improved adjustment dial, aimed at enhancing user ergonomics. However, the camera continues to omit an electronic or optical viewfinder, relying solely on its rear LCD for composition.

Ricoh has confirmed that the GR III will be discontinued in July 2025, while the GR IIIx remains available for now. A variant of the GR IV featuring a Highlight Diffusion Filter (HDF) is planned for release after winter 2025, catering to photographers seeking creative lens effects.

Why the GR IV Matters for Street Photographers

The Ricoh GR series has long been a favorite among street photographers for its pocketable size, fast lens, and image quality that punches well above its weight. The GR IV builds on this legacy by refining the core features that matter most: sharper optics, better low-light capability, and smarter autofocus. These improvements make it a compelling choice for photographers who want a discreet yet powerful tool to capture candid moments.

The move to microSD and expanded internal storage also suggests Ricoh is thinking about modern workflows, where quick access and ample storage can streamline shooting sessions. While the lack of a viewfinder might be a dealbreaker for some, the GR IV’s focus on simplicity and speed remains its defining characteristic.

Looking Ahead

As the GR IV prepares to hit the market, it’s poised to maintain Ricoh’s niche in the competitive compact camera segment. Its blend of portability, upgraded hardware, and thoughtful features will appeal to both longtime fans and new users seeking a reliable street photography companion. The upcoming Highlight Diffusion Filter variant also hints at Ricoh’s commitment to creative versatility.

For photographers and developers interested in the intersection of hardware and imaging software, the GR IV’s advancements offer exciting opportunities to explore new autofocus algorithms, sensor processing techniques, and user interface improvements. Ricoh’s continued innovation in this space underscores the evolving demands of modern photography.