Yashica has announced the development of the Y16, a compact digital camera based closely on the design of the original Yashica Y16 film camera introduced in 1959. Rather than simply adopting a generic retro appearance, the new model reproduces the unusually thin rectangular shape and several visual elements of its 16mm-film predecessor.

The digital Y16 uses a 12-megapixel image sensor and can capture both still images and video, although Yashica has not yet disclosed the sensor size or detailed recording specifications. The specifications of the built-in lens also remain unknown. The original Y16 used 10 x 14mm negatives and a fixed-focus Yashinon 25mm lens, but there is currently no indication that the digital version will reproduce the same field of view.

One of the more unusual features is the integrated xenon flash: unlike the LED lights used by many inexpensive digital compact cameras, the Y16 uses a conventional photographic strobe, with three selectable output levels. The camera also includes an optical viewfinder, while a small rear display is provided for reviewing images. Yashica has additionally mentioned motion-sensing functionality associated with the viewfinder, although the company has not yet explained how the system operates.

The external design remains particularly close to the 1959 camera. The lens, flash and front viewfinder window occupy the narrow front surface, while the shutter release and a large control dial are positioned on top. Seven color variants are planned, all based on the same light-colored body with different accent colors, again referencing versions of the original model.