Fujifilm's X Half camera is rapidly gaining iconic status, yet it doesn't match the affordability of the X100VI. The nostalgic compact model is the one I fervently hope Fujifilm will resurrect from oblivion.
In the realm of photography, the Fujifilm X70 continues to be a topic of interest and speculation among enthusiasts and reviewers. Launched in 2016, the X70 was a unique budget-friendly option, featuring an APS-C sensor and a fixed f/2.8 lens, but lacking a viewfinder.
The X70 was perceived as a cheaper variant of the X100 series, offering many of the same features at a more affordable price point. However, Fujifilm has not announced any plans to bring back the X70 series as a budget alternative to the X100 series, although the photography community continues to express interest in such a revival.
If Fujifilm were to bring back the X70, the pricing would likely be higher than the original $700 due to inflation and tariffs. This is a sentiment shared by many, including Hillary K. Grigonis, a licensed drone pilot and a current Fujifilm user who leads the US coverage for Digital Camera World.
Meanwhile, Fujifilm seems more focused on continuing experimental and premium cameras like the X Half and GFX100RF. Meanwhile, competitors like Ricoh have released compact cameras like the GR IV that enjoy strong market success, highlighting a gap Fujifilm could fill with a new budget APS-C fixed-lens compact such as a hypothetical X80.
However, so far, Fujifilm has not acted on this opportunity. As of mid-2025, no official revival or successor to the X70 has been announced. The X100VI, on the other hand, has been topping best-seller lists and is hard to find in stock, more than a year after its launch.
The Fujifilm X Half, despite its retro focus, is not a budget alternative to the X100VI due to its smaller sensor, lack of RAW capabilities, and no burst mode. Instead, it is a concept camera and an experiment in mixing retro design with digital capabilities. It has a film mode that prevents photographers from looking at photos or swapping film profiles until an entire "roll" of film is finished.
In conclusion, while there is demand and calls for Fujifilm to revive the X70 or launch a similar model as a budget X100 alternative, no official revival or successor has been announced as of mid-2025. The photography world eagerly awaits any news from Fujifilm regarding the potential return of this popular compact camera.
[1] Inflation and Tariffs Impact Potential X70 Revival Prices - [Source] [2] Fujifilm's Missed Opportunity in the Compact Camera Market - [Source]
