Canon has unveiled the EOS R8 II, a 24-megapixel entry-level full-frame camera whose boxy new design deliberately echoes the classic EOS 650 SLR film camera, marking a departure from the rounded look of the original R8. The refresh addresses several criticisms levelled at the previous model, adding in-body stabilisation, a faster burst rate and an improved autofocus system, making it a more compelling option for photographers even as Canon's recent product focus has leaned towards vlogging-oriented gear.

The camera can shoot at up to 40fps in electronic shutter mode and captures significantly larger bursts than its predecessor, while its 5-axis in-body stabilisation—absent from the original R8—reduces shake by up to 7.5 stops and makes it the lightest full-frame camera with this feature at 546 grams. Autofocus now uses Canon's Dual Pixel CMOS AF II with 100% coverage and the ability to register specific people for tracking, a feature previously reserved for higher-end models. Video capabilities remain largely unchanged from the R8, including oversampled 4K 60p and uncropped 1080p at 180fps, but benefit from the same improved autofocus tracking. The EOS R8 II is available to pre-order for $1,899 (or $2,099 with a kit lens), shipping from late October.