Sony FX5 Camcorder Delayed to Late October

Sony has delayed the release of its professional FX5 camcorder until at least the end of October, a slip from its originally announced August 21 launch date. The postponement, attributed to production reasons, also affects related accessories. The delay was announced by Sony Japan, which updated its notice to specify shipping will begin "from the end of October," marking a second postponement after an earlier slip into September. Sony has not explained the cause, and North American dealers have not received units, with some still listing an October 15 shipping date. Speculation about the delay includes quality control issues or the July 28 earthquake in Kumamoto, though Sony has not confirmed. High demand for the camera, which exceeds expectations, means fulfilling pre-orders will likely take additional time even after shipping begins.