Originally posted by Fenwoodian Poit, from what I've read, some photographers say that Pentax auto focus cameras/lenses are a bit slower then their main competitors. Given that, why would Pentax go with a 24mp sensor built for action/sports that's historically not been their specialty?
I think that with the 24mp K3II with pixel shift they've shown that they are the best in the APS-C class when it comes to resolution. So, why would not the full frame play to that strength? Therefore, I think they'll go with the biggest mega pixel sensor they can get (36mp or 42mp), equip it with pixel shift, and have the resolution equivalent (in pixel shift mode) of an 80MP sensor and be the new king of full frame resolution mountain.
To answer your first question, perhaps they would like to remedy that 'historical' deficiency, and become competitive on all fronts (including action/sports). The pre-announcement of two premium long-range lenses (with no mention of wide-angle or normal zooms) might indicate they are looking for interest from that sector. Or maybe they just believe there are more 'birders' in the market to be woo-ed (which, as we all know, APS-C is better suited to and more affordable).
The sports/action segment is the one obvious 'gap' remaining in the Pentax/Ricoh offering....worth considering?
And why have a super-duper high-res pixel-shift FF that would compete directly with their MF range? Good business?
But you're quite right, their AF has been historically slower, and their recent releases have shown a trend towards high-res stills. So on the balance of probabilities you're speculation is probably more on the money than mine.
Just throwing an idea out there (I've thrown the same idea out a few times actually). Asahi Man has also previously suggested a super-fast 24MP FF....but I think he took that back (either plans changed or he was told to shut up).
OR...as someone recently suggested....maybe there will be more than one option....