Originally posted by ffking They would be setting themselves quite a challenge if they went that route - all out action cameras, even from companies with a proven track record if CAF, are aroud 20 - 24 Mp
Pentax always stands out from the popular companies as she differentiates from the competition. A 26MP crop sensor with IQ even better than the KP would make a lot of sense as it would offer the best IQ in the APS-C market. A new AF module I think is necessary (maybe combined with a processor too) to close the gap with the Nikon D500, and sincerely I would be really surprised if Ricoh/Pentax can offer such an advanced AF performance. It would be a huge step!
So a new 24 or more MB sensor in fast APS-C body with a good FPS and buffer would surely put Pentax again on the top of the market!
I once wrote in here that Pentax should also make a prototype super-camera that incorporates their best technologies, just for advertising! Pentax cannot release a D5/1DX body as their marketshare is too small and they don't have the glass (at least yet) to attract pros or even enthousiasts like us to make such an investement. But such a prototype would show what the company is capable of, as what is finally released is very different to what could be released (the market/marketing policy dictate the products that are more likely to be profitable).
Since a totaly new AF system and maybe a new sensor and other innovations that Pentax includes in their cameras would require the new camera to be as expensive as their K-1II, it would be tough to sell it to us Pentaxians. What could be done IMHO is to offer a super APS-C action/wildlife camera with an advanced AF system in prices comparative to the competition and also release a downgraded less fast model with the existing AF-module but the same high IQ that would be offered in super competitive price, that would fit those who are not looking for an action/wildlife camera but mostly shoot landscapes, portraits etc...
Something like a K-3 and K-3II which were different but this time it would be more like the Nikon D7*** VS D500 cameras in the same body.