The Nexus G1 modular box-style cinema camera has reached a major milestone, with the team confirming the camera is now fully operational and sharing the first test footage shot during field testing in the Australian rainforest.
For those who have been following this ambitious independent camera project (previous reports here and here), this latest update represents a significant leap forward. The Nexus G1, built around the Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera 6K imaging system but housed in a completely redesigned modular body, has been in development since January 2024. We last reported on the project when preorders opened earlier this year, and now Update #10 brings confirmation that the imaging system, cooling system, MaxDrive storage, and optical system are all complete and tested.
The accompanying short film, shot by the Nexus team with actor Logan Huffman, marks the first time we are seeing actual footage from the camera. Almost all footage was captured handheld using a mix of vintage lenses, affordable cine primes, and Sigma photo lenses, giving potential buyers a realistic sense of what the camera can deliver with widely available glass rather than exotic cinema optics.
Field testing in challenging conditions
The Nexus team has been putting the camera through its paces in the hot and humid Australian rainforest for several weeks. According to the update, the run-and-gun shooting experience has been exceptional, with the team noting they have developed a newfound appreciation for handheld shooting thanks to the camera’s raw versatility.
Beyond real-world field testing, the cooling system underwent stress testing in an environmental chamber at 57°C / 134°F, the highest temperature ever recorded on Earth (Death Valley, Nevada). The Nexus G1 filled an entire 1TB MaxDrive, recording for 1.5 hours straight without overheating. The team describes the cooling system as deliberately overpowered, keeping the sensor cool for minimal thermal noise while maintaining quiet fan operation.
Optical system refinements
One area that received more development time than originally planned was the optical system, specifically sensor stack height optimization. This often overlooked aspect of camera design ensures that lenses project their optical wavefront to the sensor as intended, maximizing edge MTF and reducing chromatic aberrations.
The team conducted precision spectral analysis of multiple IR-filter materials and the E-ND element to meet stack-height requirements while achieving target spectral response and effective IR suppression. Griffith University Brisbane supported this work by providing access to their lab and spectral analysis equipment.
Wireless connectivity solved
The magnesium alloy and carbon fiber construction presented significant challenges for implementing wireless systems, as these materials effectively block radio signals. After exploring numerous solutions, the team decided to include both internal and external antenna options rather than compromise on range or ergonomics.
By default, the Nexus G1 uses dual high-gain dual band internal antennas mounted flush with the body. For situations requiring extended range, two dedicated MMCX ports on top of the camera accept full-sized dual band external SMA or MMCX whip antennas for long-range camera control.
Flat lay photo of the Nexus disassembled. Image credit: Nexus CameraFull frame module and gimbal compatibility
The team has also designed a proprietary FF module that provides an effective full frame sensor size, optically optimized for the Nexus G1. Testing with T1.5 primes boosted to T1.0 is planned for future updates.
Gimbal integration has also been validated using the DJI RS3 Pro. According to the update, the camera transitions seamlessly from handheld, tripod, slider, or shoulder rig directly onto the gimbal without breaking down rigging or building a separate gimbal configuration. The Nexus can even power the gimbal directly for reduced weight.
Price and availability
First units are now planned for release in Q1 2026, a shift from the previously announced Q3 2025 timeline. The team acknowledges that complex technical issues caused delays but emphasizes that solving these challenges led to technical advancements beyond the original specifications. The Nexus G1 standard retail price remains $3,300, with preorders available at $2,980. All preorders receive the Founders Edition with custom markings and Lightning Strike carbon fiber side panels.
What do you think of the first footage from the Nexus G1? Does the handheld shooting style and choice of accessible lenses give you a better sense of the camera’s real-world capabilities? Don’t hesitate to let us know in the comments below!