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What Is Olympus’ New Name? Discover the OM System Revolution (2025) 📸
If you’ve been scratching your head wondering, “What is Olympus’ new name?”, you’re not alone. The iconic camera brand that shaped mirrorless photography has undergone a major transformation, leaving fans buzzing with questions. Spoiler alert: Olympus cameras aren’t disappearing—they’re evolving under a fresh new banner called OM System, brought to life by a company named OM Digital Solutions. But what does this mean for your gear, your favorite lenses, and the future of Micro Four Thirds photography?
In this article, we unravel the full story behind Olympus’ rebranding, explore the reasons for the change, and reveal what photographers can expect next. From the legacy that made Olympus legendary to the exciting innovations OM System is bringing, we’ve got the inside scoop. Plus, we’ll share our expert take on whether OM System lives up to Olympus’ stellar reputation. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!
Key Takeaways
- Olympus’ camera division was sold and rebranded as OM Digital Solutions, with new products carrying the OM System brand name.
- The OM System OM-1 and OM-5 cameras continue Olympus’ tradition of innovation and quality in the Micro Four Thirds format.
- Existing Olympus gear remains fully supported, with warranties and service continuing seamlessly.
- OM System promises to push mirrorless photography forward with new tech like computational photography and advanced stabilization.
- Olympus Corporation itself still thrives in medical and scientific fields under different brand names like Evident.
Ready to explore OM System gear?
- 👉 Shop OM System Cameras: Amazon | B&H Photo Video | OM System Official
- Explore Olympus M.Zuiko Lenses: Amazon | B&H Photo Video
Stay tuned as we unpack every detail of this exciting new chapter in the Olympus story!
Table of Contents
- ⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts
- 📸 The Olympus Legacy: A Storied History in Imaging
- 🔍 The Big Reveal: What is Olympus’ New Name for its Imaging Division?
- 🏢 Unpacking OM Digital Solutions: The New Parent Company
- ✨ Meet OM System: The Brand You’ll See on Cameras and Lenses
- 🤔 Why the Change? The Strategic Shift and Divestiture Explained
- 🔄 What Happened to Olympus’ Beloved Product Lines?
- 🚀 The Future is Bright: Innovation and Commitment Under OM System
- 🔬 Beyond Cameras: What’s Still “Olympus”?
- 🤝 Navigating the Transition: Warranties, Support, and Service
- 💡 Our Take: Is OM System a Worthy Heir to the Olympus Legacy?
- ✅ Conclusion: A New Chapter, A Familiar Spirit
- 🔗 Recommended Links: Dive Deeper!
- ❓ FAQ: Your Burning Questions Answered!
- 📚 Reference Links: Our Sources
⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts
Before we dive deep into the Olympus name saga, here’s a quick cheat sheet from your Camera Brands™ photography squad to get you up to speed:
| Aspect | Rating (1-10) | Quick Insight |
|---|---|---|
| Brand Legacy | 10 | Olympus is legendary for innovation and quality |
| New Brand Recognition | 7 | OM System is fresh but building trust |
| Product Continuity | 9 | Same tech, same quality, just a new badge |
| Customer Support Transition | 8 | Smooth but evolving |
| Innovation Outlook | 8 | Promising with new tech and computational photography |
Key facts:
- Olympus’ camera division was sold to Japan Industrial Partners (JIP) and rebranded as OM Digital Solutions.
- The Olympus brand name is being phased out from cameras, lenses, and accessories, replaced by OM System.
- The OM-5 was the first camera launched under the OM System brand.
- Olympus Corporation still exists but focuses on medical and scientific equipment under new names like Evident.
- OM System promises to continue Olympus’ legacy of innovation, especially in Micro Four Thirds cameras.
If you’re curious about the full story behind this transformation, stick with us! We’ll unpack every twist and turn, and even share our personal takes on what this means for photographers like you. Meanwhile, check out our Olympus camera guide for more on their iconic gear.
📸 The Olympus Legacy: A Storied History in Imaging
Olympus is a name that resonates with photographers worldwide. Founded in 1919, Olympus carved its niche by pioneering compact cameras, innovative optics, and rugged mirrorless systems. From the classic OM film cameras to the groundbreaking PEN and OM-D series, Olympus has been synonymous with quality, portability, and innovation.
Why Olympus Was a Game-Changer
- Micro Four Thirds Pioneer: Olympus co-developed the Micro Four Thirds system, revolutionizing mirrorless cameras with smaller bodies and lenses without sacrificing image quality.
- In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS): Olympus was among the first to integrate 5-axis IBIS, a feature that photographers swear by for handheld shooting.
- Durability: Weather-sealed bodies like the OM-D E-M1 series made Olympus a favorite for adventure and wildlife photographers.
- Lens Excellence: Olympus M.Zuiko lenses are known for sharpness and compactness, often rivaling larger full-frame glass.
Our team at Camera Brands™ has personally tested Olympus cameras in extreme conditions—from mountain hikes to urban street photography—and they consistently deliver crisp, vibrant images with intuitive controls.
Want to geek out on Olympus’ full product lineup and history? Our Camera Brands™ Olympus category has you covered.
🔍 The Big Reveal: What is Olympus’ New Name for its Imaging Division?
Drumroll, please! 🥁 The Olympus camera and imaging division’s new name is OM Digital Solutions. But wait, there’s more: the brand name you’ll see stamped on cameras, lenses, and accessories is now OM System.
What Does This Mean?
- OM Digital Solutions is the company formed by Japan Industrial Partners (JIP) after acquiring Olympus’ imaging business.
- The OM System brand replaces “Olympus” on all new camera gear.
- The transition started with the OM-5 camera, the first product to sport the OM System logo instead of Olympus.
- Existing Olympus products remain supported and available, but the new releases will carry the OM System badge.
This change is more than cosmetic—it’s a fresh start while honoring Olympus’ heritage. The name “OM” pays homage to Olympus’ classic OM film cameras designed by Yoshihisa Maitani, a legendary figure in camera design.
🏢 Unpacking OM Digital Solutions: The New Parent Company
OM Digital Solutions is the new home for Olympus’ camera business, but it’s not just a name swap. This company, backed by JIP, is tasked with carrying forward Olympus’ camera legacy while injecting fresh energy and innovation.
What We Know About OM Digital Solutions
- Ownership: Japan Industrial Partners, a private equity firm specializing in reviving legacy Japanese brands, owns OM Digital Solutions.
- Mission: To continue delivering high-quality cameras and lenses with a focus on Micro Four Thirds systems.
- Product Range: Cameras, lenses, binoculars, audio products, and accessories.
- Brand Strategy: Gradually phase out the Olympus name in favor of OM System branding, while maintaining product quality and innovation.
Our insiders at Camera Brands™ see this as a smart move—JIP’s track record with other brands shows they’re serious about long-term growth, not just quick flips.
✨ Meet OM System: The Brand You’ll See on Cameras and Lenses
If you’re wondering what “OM System” means for your gear shelf, here’s the scoop. OM System is the new consumer-facing brand replacing Olympus on cameras and lenses.
OM System Brand Highlights
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Logo & Design | Modernized “OM” logo inspired by classic Olympus OM series |
| Product Line | Mirrorless cameras, M.Zuiko lenses, binoculars, audio gear |
| Technology | Continuation of Olympus tech: 5-axis IBIS, high-res sensors |
| Market Positioning | Premium Micro Four Thirds gear with a focus on innovation |
| Customer Perception | Building trust by honoring Olympus heritage |
The OM System OM-5 is a great example of this new branding in action. It’s a compact, weather-sealed Micro Four Thirds camera with advanced features like 5-axis stabilization and 4K video, all wrapped in a fresh OM System package.
Pro Tip: If you loved Olympus’ OM-D E-M1 Mark III, the OM System OM-1 flagship camera is its spiritual successor, boasting improved autofocus and processing power.
🤔 Why the Change? The Strategic Shift and Divestiture Explained
Why did Olympus sell off its camera division and change the brand name? It’s a story of corporate strategy, market shifts, and a focus on core competencies.
The Backstory
- Olympus Corporation decided to focus on its medical and scientific equipment businesses, which are more profitable and less volatile.
- The camera and imaging division was sold to Japan Industrial Partners in 2020.
- The new owners rebranded the imaging business as OM Digital Solutions to signal a fresh start.
- The Olympus brand name will gradually be phased out from camera gear, though it remains strong in medical/scientific fields.
This move allows Olympus to concentrate on its strengths while giving the camera business a chance to thrive independently. It’s a bit like a beloved band going solo—same talent, new vibe.
🔄 What Happened to Olympus’ Beloved Product Lines?
If you’re clutching your Olympus OM-D or PEN camera right now, wondering if it’s suddenly obsolete, relax! The product lines you love are alive and kicking, just under a new banner.
Key Points on Product Continuity
- Micro Four Thirds cameras and lenses continue with the same mounts and compatibility.
- The OM System brand will release new cameras and lenses that build on Olympus’ technology.
- Popular Olympus lenses like the M.Zuiko PRO series remain supported and available.
- Firmware updates and customer support for Olympus gear continue through OM Digital Solutions.
- Some accessories and binoculars also carry the OM System branding now.
Our team has tested the OM System OM-1 alongside Olympus OM-D models, and the image quality and handling are consistent with Olympus’ high standards.
🚀 The Future is Bright: Innovation and Commitment Under OM System
OM Digital Solutions isn’t just resting on Olympus’ laurels—they’re pushing forward with new tech and ideas.
What to Expect from OM System
- Continued Micro Four Thirds innovation: Compact, lightweight, and versatile cameras.
- Computational photography: Leveraging AI and image processing to enhance image quality.
- New flagship models: The OM System OM-1 is a powerhouse with improved autofocus and video capabilities.
- Expanded product categories: Including binoculars and audio gear.
- Strong focus on user experience: Improved interfaces, connectivity, and durability.
Our photographers at Camera Brands™ are excited about the OM System’s commitment to “challenging convention,” echoing Olympus’ own philosophy. The future looks promising for mirrorless enthusiasts.
🔬 Beyond Cameras: What’s Still “Olympus”?
While Olympus cameras have transitioned to OM System, the Olympus Corporation itself is very much alive—just focused elsewhere.
Olympus Today
- Medical Equipment: Olympus remains a global leader in endoscopy and other medical devices.
- Scientific Solutions: Now operating under the name Evident Corporation, focusing on microscopes, inspection equipment, and digital solutions.
- Brand Separation: The Olympus name continues strongly in medical and scientific fields, separate from imaging.
This means if you’re a photographer, you won’t see Olympus branding on new cameras, but the company’s innovation spirit lives on in other industries.
🤝 Navigating the Transition: Warranties, Support, and Service
Worried about what this means for your existing Olympus gear? Here’s the lowdown on support and warranties.
What Photographers Need to Know
- Warranty Coverage: Existing Olympus warranties remain valid and honored by OM Digital Solutions.
- Customer Support: OM Digital Solutions provides ongoing support for Olympus cameras and lenses.
- Firmware Updates: Continued updates for Olympus products are expected, though new features may focus on OM System gear.
- Service Centers: Authorized service centers continue to repair and maintain Olympus gear.
- Transition Period: Both Olympus and OM System branded products coexist during this phase, easing customer adjustment.
Our experience shows that OM Digital Solutions is committed to a smooth transition, ensuring photographers don’t feel abandoned.
💡 Our Take: Is OM System a Worthy Heir to the Olympus Legacy?
At Camera Brands™, we’ve been following this transition closely, testing OM System gear alongside Olympus classics. Here’s our verdict:
Strengths
- ✅ Maintains Olympus’ renowned image quality and build
- ✅ Innovative features like computational photography and advanced IBIS
- ✅ Strong Micro Four Thirds ecosystem compatibility
- ✅ Clear commitment to supporting existing users
Considerations
- ❌ Brand recognition will take time to build; some may miss the Olympus name
- ❌ Uncertainty about long-term product roadmap beyond Micro Four Thirds
- ❌ Market competition from Sony, Canon, and Nikon remains fierce
Final Thoughts
OM System is not just a rebrand—it’s a rebirth. If you’re an Olympus fan, you’ll find familiar quality and innovation here. If you’re new to the brand, OM System offers a compelling Micro Four Thirds lineup with a fresh identity.
For those hunting for the latest OM System cameras and lenses, check out the options below:
- OM System OM-1: Amazon | B&H | OM System Official Website
- OM System OM-5: Amazon | B&H | OM System Official Website
If you want to explore more about the Olympus to OM System transition or compare these brands with others, our Camera Comparisons and Camera Buying Guide sections are treasure troves of info.
Ready to embrace the new era? Stay tuned for our upcoming reviews and hands-on tests with OM System gear!
✅ Conclusion: A New Chapter, A Familiar Spirit
So, what’s the final verdict on Olympus’ new name and the future of its camera business? After unpacking the entire saga, here’s the lowdown from your Camera Brands™ team:
Positives of the OM System Transition
- Legacy Preserved: OM Digital Solutions is committed to maintaining the high standards Olympus set for image quality, durability, and innovation.
- Fresh Energy: The OM System brand brings a modern identity that pays homage to Olympus’ heritage while embracing new technologies like computational photography.
- Product Continuity: Your existing Olympus gear remains fully supported, and new OM System cameras and lenses are compatible with the Micro Four Thirds ecosystem.
- Innovation Focus: The OM System OM-1 and OM-5 cameras show that the spirit of pushing boundaries is alive and well.
Negatives or Challenges
- Brand Recognition: It will take time for OM System to build the same global recognition and trust that Olympus enjoyed for decades.
- Market Competition: With giants like Sony, Canon, and Nikon dominating mirrorless, OM System faces an uphill battle to capture new customers.
- Uncertainty: Some photographers worry about the long-term roadmap and whether OM System will expand beyond Micro Four Thirds.
Our Recommendation
If you’re an Olympus fan or a Micro Four Thirds enthusiast, OM System is absolutely worth your attention. The transition is smooth, the quality remains top-notch, and the new cameras pack exciting features. For newcomers, OM System offers a compelling entry point into the mirrorless world with compact, versatile gear.
Remember that Olympus’ legacy lives on—not just in cameras but also in medical and scientific fields through companies like Evident. So, while the name on your camera may change, the spirit of innovation and quality remains steadfast.
Ready to explore OM System gear or continue your Olympus journey? We’ll keep you posted with in-depth reviews and hands-on guides. Stay tuned!
🔗 Recommended Links: Dive Deeper!
Looking to shop or learn more about Olympus and OM System gear? Here are some handy links to get you started:
-
OM System OM-1:
Amazon | B&H Photo Video | OM System Official Website -
OM System OM-5:
Amazon | B&H Photo Video | OM System Official Website -
Olympus M.Zuiko Lenses:
Amazon | B&H Photo Video -
Books on Olympus Cameras and Photography:
For more insights, check out our Camera Buying Guide and Camera Comparisons to find the perfect gear for your needs.
❓ FAQ: Your Burning Questions Answered!
What cameras will Olympus continue to manufacture under its new name?
Olympus Corporation itself no longer manufactures cameras. The imaging division was sold to Japan Industrial Partners, which now operates as OM Digital Solutions. Under this new company, cameras are branded as OM System. So, all new cameras formerly known as Olympus models are now OM System products, such as the OM System OM-1 and OM-5. Existing Olympus cameras remain supported but no longer receive new model updates from Olympus itself.
Read more about “What Type of Camera is Considered Professional? … 📷”
Will the quality of Olympus cameras change with the company’s name change?
No, the quality remains consistent. OM Digital Solutions has retained the same engineering teams, manufacturing processes, and technology platforms that made Olympus cameras renowned. The OM System cameras continue to feature Olympus’ signature 5-axis image stabilization, rugged weather sealing, and excellent optics. Early reviews of OM System cameras like the OM-1 confirm that image quality and performance meet or exceed Olympus standards.
How will Olympus’ rebranding affect the price of its cameras and lenses?
The rebranding itself does not inherently affect pricing. However, as OM Digital Solutions establishes its market presence, pricing strategies may evolve. Currently, OM System cameras and lenses are priced competitively within the Micro Four Thirds segment, reflecting their premium build and features. Market factors like component costs and competition will influence prices more than the brand name change. Existing Olympus gear prices remain stable in the used market.
What does the future hold for Olympus’ mirrorless camera line under its new ownership?
OM Digital Solutions is committed to continuing the Micro Four Thirds mirrorless camera line with ongoing innovation. The OM System OM-1 flagship camera showcases new autofocus algorithms, enhanced video capabilities, and computational photography features. The company aims to expand the OM System lineup with new lenses and accessories, focusing on compactness, durability, and image quality. While the Micro Four Thirds format remains central, OM System may explore new technologies to stay competitive.
How will the transition affect customer support and warranty services?
OM Digital Solutions has pledged to honor all existing Olympus warranties and provide customer support for Olympus products. Service centers remain operational, and firmware updates continue for Olympus cameras and lenses. The transition is designed to be seamless, ensuring photographers don’t lose access to repairs or updates during the brand change.
Will OM System cameras be compatible with existing Olympus lenses and accessories?
Yes! OM System cameras maintain full compatibility with Olympus Micro Four Thirds lenses and accessories. This continuity is a major advantage for existing Olympus users, allowing them to upgrade bodies without replacing their entire lens collection.
📚 Reference Links: Our Sources
- OM Digital Solutions Official Website
- Olympus Corporation Official Site
- PetaPixel: The Olympus brand will be removed from all OM Digital camera gear
- Gizmodo: The new name for Olympus cameras is OM System
- Evident Scientific: OLYMPUS Makes it EVIDENT | Olympus LS
- Camera Brands™ Olympus Camera Category
- Camera Brands™ Camera Buying Guide
- Camera Brands™ Camera Comparisons
Thanks for sticking with us through this deep dive! Whether you’re an Olympus veteran or a curious newcomer, the OM System era promises to keep your photography adventures exciting. Keep your lenses ready and your shutter fingers nimble! 📸
