Sony a7R VI and 100-400mm F4.5 GM II Leak Suggests May 13 Announcement
Sony may be gearing up for a major product launch on May 13, 2026. Multiple sources point to that date for the simultaneous announcement of the Sony a7R VI and the FE 100-400mm F4.5 GM II lens. An Alphauniverse event is already confirmed for May 14-15 in the USA, which lines up neatly with the rumored reveal.
This timeline matches earlier reports. The 100-400mm GM II was first rumored in late April with internal zoom and a price comparable to the FE 50-150mm F2 GM. Now we have a specific date and the first real-world image of the lens.
First leaked image confirms internal zoom design
A leaked image published on April 27 shows the new 100-400mm GM II from an angled front view. The lens adopts the white barrel finish typical of Sony’s G Master telephoto lineup. The leaked photo confirms the internal zoom mechanism. Unlike the current 100-400mm GM, which extends the barrel when zooming, the new model maintains a fixed length similar to the FE 200-600mm G.
The internal zoom design improves dust and moisture resistance and provides better balance on tripods and gimbals. It also makes the lens more practical for use in adverse weather conditions, a key concern for wildlife and sports photographers.
Sony a7R VI: 67MP sensor and new body
The a7R VI is expected to pack a new 67MP sensor, a meaningful step up from the 61MP sensor in the a7R V. Sources describe a new body design, though specific changes have not been detailed. A redesigned body could mean improvements to the grip, viewfinder, or cooling system, all of which would benefit the high-resolution, long-shooting-day audience the r series attracts.
The combination of a 67MP body and a 100-400mm lens opens up significant cropping flexibility for wildlife and landscape photographers. Even a moderate crop would retain resolution well above standard full-frame sensors.
Pricing and positioning
The 100-400mm F4.5 GM II is expected to carry a price comparable to the FE 50-150mm F2 GM, which launched at around $3,000. That represents a premium over the current 100-400mm GM, which typically sells for $2,500. The price increase reflects the internal zoom mechanism, updated optics, and the GM II optical formula.
What to watch for
The May 13 date has not been confirmed by Sony. But the combination of source tips and a registered Alphauniverse event makes it the strongest signal yet. If the timeline holds, Sony will kick off its summer product cycle with two major releases: a high-resolution body for detail-oriented shooters and a telephoto zoom built for mobility and weather resistance.
The first leaked image and confirmed specs suggest a polished product that is ready for announcement. Now it is just a matter of waiting for the official word.