Panasonic AK-UBX100: a 4K multipurpose camera with AF

Panasonic will unveil at IBC 2025 the new AK-UBX100, a box-style 4K multipurpose camera compatible with the same 2/3″ bayonet lens mount platform as the AK-UCX100 4K studio camera launched last year. Thanks to the AF function via FWUP, the camera will allow fast and stable target acquisition regardless of the type of lens used.

In recent years, there have been a growing number of video production environments using LED walls, projectors and advanced lighting technologies, as well as a growing demand for high-quality live streaming, and in these environments, these sites must supply multiple types of content simultaneously.

There is also a growing need to maintain consistent quality so that it is accessible to users of all levels of shooting skill and experience.

To address this, Panasonic has introduced a range of intuitive innovations designed to simplify operation and improve versatility in various recording environments. These features allow creators to focus on capturing their vision, reducing configuration complexity and providing more time for creative expression. This will be the first time such a feature has been integrated into a studio camera or 4K system.

Same design and core as the AK-UCX100 4K studio camera

The AK-UBX100 box-type 4K multipurpose camera uses the same functional and original design, as well as the same shared menu interface, as the AK-UCX100 4K studio camera. This eliminates the complexity of color matching, a recurring problem, and unifies operability across devices.

Furthermore, when using a common remote operation panel (ROP), seamless integration is made possible with the AK-UCX100 4K studio camera and AW-UE160 4K PTZ camera, resulting in significant improvements in operational efficiency on location.

The AK-UBX100 is independently compatible with various IP protocols, such as SMPTE ST 2110, NDI and SRT, and its interfaces include two 12G-SDI ports and two SFP+/28 ports. In addition to basic moiré reduction designed for various production needs, the addition of an HD optical low-pass filter further enhances moiré suppression, allowing the camera to deliver great expressive power on its own.

In terms of design, this model presents a flat design on all four sides, an improvement over the previous model, the AK-UB300. Thanks to your compact and lightweight bodyAt only approximately 1.9 kilos, the new camera can be easily mounted on a robotic camera and used in a wide variety of recording environments. This increases flexibility when combined with lenses and camera heads, greatly improving maneuverability on the jobsite.

AF via FWUP

By incorporating the AF function through FWUP, the camera allows for fast and stable target acquisition regardless of the type of lens used or the skill level of the operator. By differentiating its use from the already equipped focus assist function, the camera can be used in an even wider range of photography situations. This AF function allows incremental adjustment of the position, size and speed of the target area, and even for experienced operators, the instant AF support provided by the One-Touch AF function allows a smooth transition to final manual adjustments, contributing to the realization of a focus angle of view.

This AF function is planned to be supported via FWUP for the AK-UCX100 4K studio camera before the AK-UBX100, with an update planned for December 2025.

Other notable features of the new camera are the low bias, the expansion of the Video Trunk function (supports 12G-SDI output on the Trunk In terminal, the Automatic correction for f-drop and peripheral light fall-off function or the remote back focus adjustment.