No flash on the D700 replacement?

[K1W1]

Nikon rumours and a couple of other sites are posting that the D800 (?) will be released in the March/April time frame but it may not have an on board flash.

If true is this an attempt by Nikon to push FX firmly into the pro category or a sign that a lower spec FX body may also be in the wind?

[Screenclutter]

If I read a recent D7000 review correctly, there was a comment about PC-E lenses not fitting very well onto cameras that had an on-board flash, and that it only fit comfortably on the D3 series of cameras, could this be a factor?

If one spends money on an FX body and related lenses, I guess buying an extra flash or wireless controller does not add much to the total cost of ownership

I am sure many are hoping for a lower spec FX body as you mentioned though.

[Turo]

Not that it applies to me because I will not be replacing my D700 aaaaanytime soon, but I guess that would mean no CLS without an external flash? I use my pop-up flash way too much to give it up (for triggering other flashes only, really).

[Rooz]

If I read a recent D7000 review correctly, there was a comment about PC-E lenses not fitting very well onto cameras that had an on-board flash, and that it only fit comfortably on the D3 series of cameras, could this be a favtor ?

No. The main reason is to be able to have a 100% viewfinder.

[photowerkz]

The same rumours says there's a 98% viewfinder.. If Nikon removes the flash and gives us less than 100%, you can bet that the only reason to remove the flash is to make the camera a bit cheaper to make, and get some added sales from people who want a flash.

[faisal]

How does the canon 7D manage to have a 100% viewfinder with a PUF then?? (unless this is a full frame issue i.e. bigger sensor)

[Rooz]

correct fais. nikon top end aps-c bodies are now 100%. actually, i think even the d7000 is a 100% coverage aswell.