The sensor might not be the only disappointment for Leica M photographers, as Leica is also said to be changing the controls. While the menu buttons have always been positioned to the left of the display since the Leica M8, they are reportedly set to move to the right of the screen, similar to the Leica Q3. The reason for this change is that Leica allegedly wants to make room for a larger display.
Earlier rumors also suggested that Leica could return to the classic design with a removable bottom plate, or offer a version with a bottom plate as a "Heritage Edition". According to LeicaRumors, production of the Leica M12 has already begun, so nothing stands in the way of a launch in early 2027.