Realme has officially confirmed its long-rumored partnership with RICOH IMAGING, the legendary camera brand behind the iconic RICOH GR series. This collaboration will be unveiled on October 14, 2025, in Beijing, China, alongside the launch of the highly anticipated Realme GT 8 Pro.
This announcement puts an end to months of speculation and leaks that hinted at Realme’s bold move into the world of professional-grade smartphone photography.
Highlights of the Realme x RICOH Collaboration
- Official launch date: October 14, 2025, in Beijing.
- Four years of development: The project has been in the works since 2021.
- Inspired by RICOH GR: Known for its cult following among street photographers.
- Exclusive features: GR color algorithm, five classic film tones, and a GR-style camera interface.
- Target audience: Young users who prefer authentic, natural-looking photos over heavily processed images.
Four Years in the Making
Realme revealed that this collaboration is not a sudden decision. In fact, the two companies have been working together for over four years to bring the spirit of the RICOH GR camera into the smartphone world.
In a promotional video titled “4 Years in One Snap”, Realme’s CMO Chase Xu and RICOH IMAGING’s Kazunobu Saiki shared insights into the project. They explained that today’s younger generation values authenticity in photography—images that feel real, raw, and unique, rather than algorithm-driven perfection.
What to Expect from the Realme GT 8 Pro Camera
The Realme GT 8 Pro will debut with:
- GR Color Algorithm: Designed to replicate the distinctive tones of RICOH’s GR cameras.
- Classic Film Tones: Five film-inspired presets for a nostalgic photography experience.
- GR Camera Interface: A user-friendly design that mimics the GR’s iconic shooting style.
This collaboration aims to deliver a street photography experience on a smartphone, making it one of the most exciting partnerships in the mobile industry this year.
Expert Take – Why This Matters
According to Tech World info, this partnership could be a game-changer for Realme’s brand positioning. While competitors like Vivo (ZEISS), Xiaomi (Leica), and OPPO (Hasselblad) have already teamed up with camera giants, Realme’s choice of RICOH is unique.
Unlike others, RICOH brings a cult-like reputation in street photography, which could help Realme stand out in a crowded smartphone market. If executed well, the GT 8 Pro might attract not just tech enthusiasts but also serious photography lovers.
