I must say that I have to disagree with the "closed systems are the only way" sentiments expressed by some on this board recently.
Please understand that I don't have a Hasselblad H system and am not coming from the perspective of a customer who feels like he has been abandoned (although I can empathize with those who feel that way).
I feel that Hasselblad (and Jenoptik's) closed strategy is a viable and reasonable approach to business, as long as they are clear with their customers about who can play and who can't. Sinar has been (mostly) clear and up-front about this. Hasselblad clearly surprised many with their recent moves with the H3 locking out other backs, and their HCD lenses not functioning on H1's and H2's. I think surprising your customers and potential customers in this way is not a good long-term business plan, and Hassy knows this.
Going forward, I think (and hope) we'll see a lot less of this, but I believe Hasselblad does intend to follow a more Canon/Nikon model for upgrades going forward (by providing a minimal trade-in value for older systems, they are encouraging buyers to sell on their own to upgrade to the latest bodies). It remains to be seen if a new, higher-resolution back will require upgrading the camera as well, or if it will be made available to any previous generations. It would be nice if Hasselblad would clarify this one way or another for all of us.
Regardless, as I have stated, I feel this is a fine and even reasonable business model, provided it is made clear up front. But I do not feel that this is the only way to be profitable in the MFDB market. It's just one way, and there are others. I suspect, if Phase and Mamiya do things right, we will see that demonstrated in the not too distant future. I do wish them luck, because personally, I prefer choice to the convenience of a closed package.
Some have cited the superiority of integrated offerings, but again, I question this. There were many reports of lock-ups in the early H systems, even with all Hasselblad components. Every new system has its growing pains, integrated or not. And once the teething pains are over, a well-designed open system can function every bit as effectively, efficiently and reliably as a closed one.
So, I'll get off my soapbox now, I just wanted to express the sentiment that just because an approach is working for some it doesn't mean there's not another way. Just the interest in this thread in such a short time is some indication that there is more than a little interest in Phase/Mamiya's plan. I hope they are also successful, so that the medium format marketplace is a vibrant, competitive industry with us, the photographers benefiting.
Best regards,
Brad