I wince at the prospect of the rumored Leica M11-V – here’s why

• Leica’s next M-series camera could be the first to have an EVF
• It could be the smallest, lightest and most versatile Leica M-series camera yet
• Leica Fotos app makes reference to ‘M11-V’

Leica appears to be on the brink of launching a new model in the legendary M-series, but the news is likely to be met with dismay from some diehard fans. Why? Well, it seems that the M11-V will be the first ever M-series camera to ditch the iconic optical rangefinder, replacing it with an electronic viewfinder (EVF).

The news comes courtesy of Leica Rumors, which points out that the latest beta version of Leica’s Fotos app contains references to an M11-V model. That suggests an official announcement is imminent – perhaps as soon as some time in the next few weeks. In the past, Leica Rumors has posted leaked images that appear to show an M-series camera with a large rear touchscreen, clean top plate, no ISO dial and an EVF. It also appears to be somewhat smaller than previous M-series models.

Leica has, of course, produced many cameras with EVFs in the past, such as its Q3 and Q3 43 premium compacts and its SL series of L-mount mirrorless cameras – the last of which, the Leica SL3-S, TechRadar reviewed only recent. But, until now, the M-series has remained staunchly rangefinder-only.

Home on the range?