RICOH is pleased to announce the launch of the RICOH GR III HDF and RICOH GR IIIx HDF digital compact cameras. Designed using the acclaimed RICOH GR III and RICOH GR IIIx as base models, these high-end models feature a newly developed HDF (Highlight Diffusion Filter).

While inheriting the fundamental merits of the base models -- exceptional image quality, flawless point-and-shoot operation and outstanding portability -- the new models allows the user instantly and with a single action to engage the newly developed, built-in HDF (Highlight Diffusion Filter), which is designed to deliver mellow, softened images with diffused highlight areas, in addition to the clear, sharply focused images made famous by the base models. This filter allows the user to add a totally different kind of visual expression to captured images, depending on the subject or creative intension.

Main features of the RICOH GR III HDF and RICOH GR IIIx HDF

Single-action switching to the new, built-in HDF to create mellow, softened images
The new models incorporate the newly developed HDF (Highlight Diffusion Filter) to emphasize highlights and produce mellow, softened images. Developed by taking advantage of RICOH's advanced inkjet technology cultivated over the years, this special-effect filter is designed to diffuse highlight areas and create a blurred effect along the image's edges, making it possible to capture somewhat nostalgic images resembling those captured in film photography or movies. Since the HDF can be instantly switched on and off with a single action, it lets the user effortlessly alternate between two completely different visual expressions -- clear, sharply focused images symbolic of the RICOH GR series, and mellow, softened images captured by the HDF -- depending on the subject or creative intention. This creative versatility expands the visual boundaries of snapshot photography.

The color of the shutter-release button has been changed to grayish silver to symbolize the easy shift of visual expression. The default setting of the Fn (Function) button has also been changed to the ON/OFF switching of the HDF.*

The user can preprogram up to three white-balance settings as the base white balance.** It is also possible to couple the base white balance with the White-balance Fine Adjustment function.

The new models feature Zone Select AF,*** which automatically sets the focus at the most appropriate point within the image area, after the user shifts the 3X3 focus area to the desired zone.

The user can also select another function as the default setting of the Fn button.

**This function can be added to all RICOH GR III- and GR IIIx-series models using function expansion firmware, which is scheduled to be released along with the market launch of these new models.
***The 3X3 focus area is identical in size to that of the Auto-area AF (Center) mode.
Note: Except for the availability of the ND (Neutral Density) filter, all other specifications of the new models are identical with those of the RICOH GR III/IIIx.