@EspenB I wouldn't rule that out. However Panasonic has a history of throwing plans out the window and going back to the drawing board. All camera companies do this, and it's part of the production process. But Panasonic seems a bit trigger happy with announcements. Though to be fair it probably has served them well, as many will hang on for a year or more for the camera they feel is best for them. I think if we envision Panasonic wanting to be sure when the GH6 is released that it is on par with and in many regards exceeding performance of releases like the Z9 it makes sense why it is less likely a parts shortage, and more likely like yous said firmware, or possibly some hardware revisions (faster processor, Innovative LCD, EVF.. Modular wonderment, etc..). The guts are undoubtedly there, and have been housed in several versions. I don't think I've seen one yet, but I have seen more blacked out (not taped) cameras than usual in Japan this year.

Most likely we are looking at some revisions to keep up with what's being released by others. Shortages could be another aspect. I spoke with someone from one of the big camera companies recently who is in charge of securing supply chains. I don't really want to say which company (not Panasonic), but it seemed they were reaching their needs, but only with allot of leg work to various countries and "creative thinking" to ensure things were on track. This was several months ago, so Panasonic may be further back in the cue, or simply cut off from some of the suppliers.

Panasonic announced on December 16 that the commercialization of the Micro Four Thirds standard mirrorless camera "LUMIX GH6" is expected to be delayed in early 2022.

Japanese translation.

To be short - do not expect GH6 until Q2 or even Q3 2022.

I wish for a kit which bundles the GH6 with the 10-25 mm f1.7 lens. :-)

GH6 hardware is done, firmware is still under developement.

Release at CES in january.

Panasonic should really learn some stuff from GoPro and release the camera before the firmware is done. :-p

@EspenB Probably. Panasonic traditionally doesn't seem to concerned with getting cameras out in time for christmas.

@mee So we had the developement announcement in may and is now waiting for the pre announcement before christmas.

I expect the announcement relatively soon. This is not a source thing, but a general feeling based on sources moods. I'm not talking release date. It is unlikely they will announce it so close on the heals of Nikon's flagship. Different market, but many will draw comparisons nonetheless. If I was going to just guess I would guess 3rd quarter of November announcement.

@yaz72

Aside from the AF and available lenses, Panasonic is better for image and build quality,

The Panasonic market share in the FF mirrorless sector is really minuscule, so I don't have much faith in the Lumix future. Neither MFT or FF.

I'm currently just at the GH4, being strained for cash for the GH5 heyday. My finances has improved immensely this year so after the may GH5II/GH6 announcement I have been holding out for the GH6. Hoping for a solid upgrade on my GH4.

I guess the options here besides abandoning M43 is getting either a "cheap" GH5 these days, a even more cheap photocentric G9 (which is like 100 USD cheaper than the GH5) or a GH5II (to expensive really if I want the GH6 later on) if will I continue to hold out for the GH6 (Spring 2022? Autumn 2022? Before the end of 2022?). Or just use the GH4 for another period - but cash is burning in my pocket for a upgrade :-p

In my view the problem here is that the GH6 has no commited date for finalizing after the "before the end of the year" announcement from may 2021 has fallen.

Rant off.

Ya know, Panasonic never said they were going to release the camera or anything really today. That was fabricated out of thin hope. From my understanding Panasonic is not sure themselves when the release will be. I think what is very likely is that a small number of prototypes are out, 3 to 6 in Japan only. Beyond dialing in auto focus, firmware versions are being tested, modified, and a keen eye is being kept on what is being released by others. Say what you will about Panasonic's auto focus history, but they were the first to have many things we now consider standard, and have always had great menu's and usability. Designing a whole new camera to replace one that stood the test of time (GH5/s) is not a linear timeline even in the best of times. The GH5II should have been a sign to many that the GH6 is slow cooking and won't be released till they have it right. Like most I was hopeful to see more info, but sorta suspected very little to be added. All companies here have been working hard to secure supply chains not just for the moment, but for the long run, and marketing/pr strategies have to adjust accordingly. In a way this can be beneficial as it allows companies to test prototypes and fine tune them longer since there is no sense setting a hard release date until production materials can be secured.