Picture credit: Richard Sibley

[article updated 1.35am GMT to include D4S photo and comment from Nikon UK]

Nikon says the D4S, which is in development, will feature a new image processing engine to boost picture quality, plus better AF.

In a statement, the firm added: ‘It is a model that offers a higher level of completion as a next-generation flagship camera, and expands the possibilities for professional photographers who always require the best possible performance in severe environments, particularly in the fields of sports, press and nature photography, as well as advanced amateur photographers looking for greater power of expression in their photographic works.’

When asked when professional photographers would be able to get their hands on the new Nikon D4S, Nikon UK’s group marketing manager Jeremy Gilbert told AP’s Richard Sibley: ‘Obviously 2014 is a big year for sport and we wanted to let photographers know of our intentions for the year ahead and what we have in development.

‘However, as of yet there is no planned release date.’

Full statement, as released by Nikon USA on 6 January:

MELVILLE, N.Y. – Nikon Corporation is preparing for the release of its next-generation flagship model, and has announced the development of the Nikon D4S HD-SLR. The camera will be on display, before its official release, at the Nikon booth (#14916, Central Hall) at the 2014 International CES show from January 7-10, 2014 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
 
As Nikon’s new flagship model, the D4S will offer advances over the Nikon D4 HD-SLR camera, including enhanced image quality enabled with adoption of a new image-processing engine. The new HD-SLR will also feature more advanced autofocusing performance, further solidifying it as the choice for professional sports, nature and event photographers as well as photojournalists.
 
The D4S represents a concentration of Nikon’s advanced camera development technologies and legacy as a leader in imaging. The D4S will further expand the possibilities for professional photographers who demand the best possible performance and image quality in challenging environments. The Nikon D4S will build upon the success of the acclaimed Nikon D4, a camera highly regarded for its speed, unrivaled low-light ability and amazing image quality that made it the choice of professionals and advanced amateurs around the world.
 
Further details regarding the Nikon D4S, including announcement date, availability and suggested retail price will be announced at a later date.