Summary
- The Sony FX5 is rumored to support internal 16-bit RAW recording
- The available formats may include X-OCN LT and the new X-OCN C1 and C2
- X-OCN C2 is listed with a theoretical bitrate of 232 Mbps
- The camera may feature a 16.6-megapixel fully stacked sensor
- Rumored recording options include 5K 3:2 Open Gate
- The announcement is rumored to take place on July 22, 2026
The upcoming Sony FX5 is rumored to feature internal 16-bit RAW recording and two new, more efficient X-OCN formats.
According to a new unconfirmed leak, the Sony FX5 will be capable of recording internally in X-OCN LT, a format also used by the company’s more expensive cinema cameras, as well as the new X-OCN C1 and C2 formats.
The information is particularly significant because recording 16-bit RAW files with a smaller data footprint could provide greater flexibility in color grading without the extreme storage requirements associated with less compressed formats.
New X-OCN C1 and C2 formats
X-OCN C1 and C2 were reportedly developed to provide higher compression ratios than X-OCN LT. Their purpose is to preserve the quality and data depth of 16-bit files while reducing file sizes, transfer times and storage requirements.
In the leaked theoretical figures for 4096 x 2160 resolution at 24 frames per second, X-OCN LT corresponds to 389 Mbps, while the new C1 and C2 formats are estimated at 289 Mbps and 232 Mbps, respectively.
These figures are provided for comparison, as the report notes that models supporting C1 and C2 will not offer 4096 x 2160 recording at 24p.
Internal 16-bit RAW in a compact body
The FX5 is rumored to support X-OCN LT, C1 and C2 in several full-frame 5K modes, including 3:2 Open Gate, 17:9 and 16:9.
X-OCN LT is already used by the Sony VENICE 2 and BURANO, while the leaked information presents the new C1 and C2 options as exclusive to the upcoming FX camera. This could indicate that Sony plans to bring features from its professional Cinema Line models to a smaller and more affordable body.
XAVC HS and XAVC S recording options are also listed, with support varying according to the selected sensor mode and resolution.
The rumored specifications
The Sony FX5 is said to feature a 16.6-megapixel fully stacked sensor and a BIONZ XR 2 processor with integrated artificial intelligence-based autofocus functions.
Other reported features include 5K Open Gate recording in a 3:2 aspect ratio, three base ISO settings, False Color and in-body image stabilization with a removable stabilization mechanism.
The camera is also expected to use a menu system influenced by the VENICE, a fully articulating 3.5-inch display and two hybrid card slots supporting SD and CFexpress Type A media.
Its design is described as being similar to the FX3, although the body may be slightly thicker. A new removable and tilting electronic viewfinder is also mentioned, which will likely be offered as an external accessory.
When is the announcement expected?
The official Sony FX5 announcement is rumored to take place on July 22, 2026. Sony has not yet confirmed the camera’s name, specifications, announcement date or price.
The information should therefore be treated as unconfirmed until the product is officially introduced.
What we think
Internal 16-bit X-OCN recording could become the Sony FX5’s most important feature, especially if the new C1 and C2 formats deliver meaningfully smaller files without a major reduction in image quality. Should the leak prove accurate, Sony may have created a particularly interesting bridge between its compact Cinema Line cameras and its more expensive professional cinema systems.
Frequently asked questions
What is X-OCN?
X-OCN is a Sony recording format designed to preserve a large amount of sensor information while offering increased flexibility for post-production, exposure adjustments and color grading.
Will the Sony FX5 record RAW internally?
According to the leak, the camera will support internal 16-bit RAW recording in X-OCN LT, C1 and C2. Sony has not officially confirmed this capability.
What is the difference between X-OCN C1 and C2?
C1 and C2 are said to use higher compression than X-OCN LT. C2 is expected to produce the smallest files, while C1 sits between LT and C2 in terms of bitrate.
Will the FX5 offer Open Gate recording?
The unconfirmed information points to 5K Open Gate recording in a 3:2 aspect ratio, using a larger area of the image sensor.
When will the Sony FX5 be announced?
Its announcement is rumored for July 22, 2026, although Sony has not yet officially confirmed the date.
