After nearly a decade, Sony has finally launched the successor to its compact full-frame camera, the RX1R III.

The RX1R III brings a significant leap in imaging power with a 61MP Exmor R CMOS sensor, AI autofocus, and a compact, premium build targeted at advanced shooters and street photography enthusiasts.

Set for release in August, the RX1R III undercuts Leica’s Q3 and Fujifilm’s GFX100RF in price at A$7,999.

Fitted with a fixed Zeiss Sonnar T 35mm f/2* lens, the RX1R III is powered by Sony’s latest BIONZ XR image processor and includes an AI-powered tracking system inherited from the Alpha line-up.

The camera features 693 phase-detection AF points, covering approximately 78% of the frame, and introduces “Step Crop Shooting” which enables in-camera focal length switching between 35mm, 50mm, and 70mm via sensor cropping.

Despite its compact form, the RX1R III supports 4K video at 30fps with 10-bit 4:2:2 colour and includes 12 built-in Creative Looks, catering to both stills and video creators.

The macro mode lets users focus as close as 20cm, while the 2.36-million-dot OLED EVF offers high contrast viewing with 0.70x magnification.

Weighing just 483 grams, the magnesium alloy body houses a USB-C port, single SDXC UHS-II slot, and a battery rated for up to 300 shots. It lacks in-body stabilisation and a tilting screen, prioritising portability and clean design.