Malaysia’s photography community can look forward to a distinctive new addition with the upcoming RICOH GR IV Monochrome, a high-end compact digital camera designed exclusively for black and white photography. The camera will be distributed locally by Futuromic Photo AV Sdn Bhd, further strengthening Futuromic’s presence as a key distributor of premium imaging products in Malaysia.
Unlike conventional digital cameras that rely on software conversions to produce monochrome images, the RICOH GR IV Monochrome is engineered from the ground up for black and white expression. It is the first GR series camera to feature a dedicated monochrome image sensor, developed to deliver greater tonal depth, richer contrast and more nuanced grayscale detail. This marks a significant evolution for the GR series, which has long been associated with street photography, documentary work and photographers who value speed, discretion and image quality.
Futuromic Photo AV Sdn Bhd, known for bringing premium and niche photography solutions into the Malaysian market, will be responsible for introducing the GR IV Monochrome locally. With this launch, Futuromic continues to curate products that appeal to serious enthusiasts and professionals who appreciate specialised photographic tools rather than mass-market devices. The arrival of the GR IV Monochrome further reinforces Futuromic’s role in expanding creative choices for Malaysian photographers.
The GR IV Monochrome is based on the latest RICOH GR IV platform released in September 2025, but with a creative focus that sets it apart. It features an approximately 25.74-megapixel monochrome CMOS sensor paired with Image Control options specifically optimised for black and white photography. These controls allow photographers to fine-tune contrast, toning, grain and sharpness directly in-camera, producing expressive monochrome images without relying heavily on post-processing.
At its core is the classic GR lens configuration, an 18.3mm F2.8 lens equivalent to 28mm in full-frame terms. This focal length has long been favoured by street photographers for its natural perspective and versatility. Combined with 5-axis sensor-shift image stabilisation, Hybrid AF and the GR series’ renowned Snap Focus functionality, the GR IV Monochrome is designed for fast, intuitive shooting in real-world conditions.
Despite its advanced capabilities, the camera retains the GR philosophy of portability. Its compact body makes it easy to carry daily, aligning with the shooting style of photographers who prefer to work unobtrusively. Practical features such as approximately 53GB of internal memory, support for microSD cards, and RAW (DNG) recording further enhance its usability for extended shooting sessions.
The development of the GR IV Monochrome also coincides with important milestones in the GR series’ history. Nearly 30 years have passed since the launch of the original GR1 film camera in 1996, and 20 years since the introduction of the first GR DIGITAL in 2005. The Monochrome model represents both a celebration of this heritage and a bold step into a more specialised creative direction for the GR lineup.
For the Malaysian market, the introduction of the RICOH GR IV Monochrome through Futuromic Photo AV Sdn Bhd is particularly meaningful. It highlights Futuromic’s commitment to bringing globally sought-after, enthusiast-focused cameras to local photographers, ensuring Malaysia remains connected to the latest developments in the international photography scene.
Malaysia launch timing: 15th February 2026
Estimated retail price: RM 8,499
The RICOH GR IV Monochrome is positioned as a purpose-built camera for photographers who value the discipline and artistry of pure black and white photography. Designed with a dedicated monochrome image sensor and specialised Image Control options, it represents a return to photographic fundamentals focused on tonal depth, contrast and creative expression.
With Futuromic Photo AV Sdn Bhd set to bring the RICOH GR IV Monochrome to Malaysia, local photographers can look forward to a camera that is not merely capable of monochrome shooting, but purpose-built to master it from sensor to shutter.
ABOUT FUTUROMIC PHOTO AV SDN. BHD.
Futuromic Photo AV Sdn. Bhd. (“Futuromic”) is a leading distributor of photography, imaging, and audio-visual products in Malaysia, with over three decades of industry experience. Established in 1994, Futuromic has built a robust nationwide presence through an extensive network of authorised dealers, online marketplaces, and its own B2B platform. Futuromic operates across two core distribution segments, Photo Imaging, and IT to meet the evolving needs of professionals, content creators, and technology users alike. Futuromic is Malaysia’s only distributor for renowned global brands including DNP, Eureka, GR, Kodak PIXPRO, Nikon, Pentax, Tamron, SanDisk and Western Digital, and master distributor for FujiFilm imaging products. Guided by its tagline “Create Connect Inspire.”, Futuromic offers comprehensive product solutions, after-sales support, and community engagement initiatives such as its photography platform, GIVING FRAMES.
For more information, visit www.futuromic.com.
