Apart from the hint about the ICOM X60, I have not heard rumours of new radios on the horizon from the likes of Yaesu and Kenwood. If my thoughts are correct (I hope I am wrong!) both these are having thoughts of getting out of the amateur radio market.
Personally, it is my view that Yaesu has lost its way. Nearly a quarter of a century after the launch of the FT817 the world is still waiting!! Personally I think they have, sadly, missed the boat again.
On John's blog he mentions a new concept radio from ICOM called the X60. This is on show at the Dayton Hamvention this weekend. The main unveiling will be at the Tokyo Ham Fair later this summer.
The Dayton Hamvention is probably the biggest amateur radio show in the world.
I have not yet heard if Yaesu will announce anything. Personally, I think they are in a total muddle and it would not surprise me if Yaesu and Kenwood leave the amateur radio market within 5 years.
This is a reminder that the Dayton Hamvention is this coming weekend. Dayton is in Ohio, USA 🇺🇸.
As far as I know, it is the biggest amateur radio gathering on the planet. It particularly attracts visitors in the USA, but is also a meeting place for overseas visitors too.
It is often the place where new products are announced. I am still waiting for the FT817 true successor, although I fear it is now too late!
This is probably the biggest ham gathering in the world. Many (who can afford it!) like to go there to see the gear and meet old friends. It is on this weekend.
It is often the place where new rigs are launched. You can imagine the panic in many labs in the run-up! As yet, I have not (yet) seen any major announcements, but this is the place to do it.
See https://hamvention.org/ .
In my honest view, this is a last chance for some manufacturers including Yaesu. If they "miss the boat" they may never, ever, get another chance. As the average age of radio amateurs increases and many become SK, the outcome could be bleak for many manufacturers and dealers.
UPDATE 2010z: Well Dayton has been running for several hours and I have not yet heard any announcements about new rigs.
This is mid-May in Ohio USA. It is one of the biggest amateur radio gatherings in the world. It is often the place where major manufacturers announce new products, even if they are still some way off. I have never been. Let's hope Yaesu do not miss the boat again, or I fear curtains.
See https://hamvention.org/ .
Mid may sees the Dayton Hamvention in the USA. This is probably the biggest amateur radio gathering on the planet. Often, the big manufacturers use it to announce new products, even if they are still in development.
I really hope Yaesu announces a real successor to the FT817/818, both of which are no longer in production because of component shortages. This is their very last chance. Otherwise I fear they will leave the amateur market. The impression you get is of a floundering market strategy in which they cannot tell their a*e from their elbow.
What do we want?
None of this is rocket science. Yaesu - pull your finger out!! Do it NOW!
The Dayton Hamvention is usually one of the biggest amateur events on the planet. People usually travel there from all over the world. This year, like last, it is a virtual event sadly. These days will end.
Often, the big manufacturers announce new products here. It is an important date in the diary. If you want to attend virtually, there is a link below.
See https://hamvention.org .
They are already selling tickets for 2022, which hopefully will not be virtual.
This is the place where many manufacturers announce new products.
Every few weeks I take a peek at the narrowband activity on Oscar 100, the geosynchronous satellite. My own view is activity is patheticall...
