The new ARRI ALEXA 35 Xtreme is an internal upgrade to its workhorse Super 35 platform, keeping the proven ALEV 4 CMOS sensor (27.99 x 17.99 mm) and 17 stops of dynamic range, but adding a much faster main processor and expanded onboard memory. This hardware push allows the new “Sensor Overdrive” mode: 330 fps in full dynamic range, or up to 660 fps with 11 stops—no need for a separate high-speed camera on most shoots.

These high-speed modes use the built-in memory buffer and new processing board, keeping sensor readout rolling while writing at lower latencies. In practice: productions can shoot slow motion and standard footage with a single camera, with frame-accurate matching in post.

ARRICORE: RGB, Lower Bitrate, All Flexibility

ARRICORE, ARRI’s next-generation RGB codec, brings significant data savings—reduced bitrates compared to both ARRIRAW and ProRes. This Codec is not a RAW format, but still allows adjustment of ISO, white balance, and tint in post. Color science (ARRI Look File ALF4), ARRI Textures, metadata, and MXF wrappers are fully supported. Audio, timecode, and lens data are written as with previous ALEXA 35 codecs. Also, it works nicely with the ARRI Reference Tool.

ARRICORE debuts as a public beta, aiming for broad compatibility: if your tool already reads ALEXA 35 media, it should read ARRICORE. Most third-party DIT and finishing solutions are expected to support it at launch.

Pre-Recording Buffer: Now Even Longer

Onboard memory is now used for a five-fold increase in pre-record buffer duration. With the ALEXA 35 Xtreme, you get up to 30 seconds pre-record at 24 fps in Apple ProRes 4444 (4.6K Open Gate), or up to five minutes in HD ProRes 422 HQ at 24 fps. According to ARRI, these are the longest pre-record times available in any digital cinema camera. This function especially benefits documentary crews and unpredictable action work.

Power & Wireless: Improvements Behind the Scenes

Despite new capabilities, ALEXA 35 Xtreme draws about 10% less power than its predecessor. This is attributed to the new, more efficient processing and memory boards. Wi-Fi connectivity is also improved—now supporting the 5 GHz band, Wi-Fi mesh roaming, and automatic reconnection to known networks. Accessory control via the ARRI Camera Companion App is reportedly more stable, particularly in wireless-heavy sets or live production environments.

Body and Ecosystem: If It Fits, It Still Fits

Physical design, connector layout, and all mechanical interfaces are unchanged. That means total compatibility with ARRI’s existing system: lens mounts, handle and cage options, the Audio Extension Module AEM-1, Power Distribution Module PDM-1, Hi-5 wireless controller, Live Production System LPS-1, and CODEX Compact Drives (1 TB, 2 TB, Express 1 TB).

Licensing, Upgrades, and Pricing: No Surprises

ALEXA 35 Xtreme is sold in sets with either Base or Premium licensing. If you own an ALEXA 35 with Base license, your licenses remain compatible, and you can apply them to an Xtreme body as needed—on weekly, monthly, annual, or perpetual terms. Pricing for the Xtreme models and licenses stays at ALEXA 35 levels.

ARRI offers an upgrade program: any ALEXA 35 Base, Premium, or Live camera can be converted to Xtreme spec for €15,900 at selected ARRI service centers. All installed licenses are retained, and the camera is returned as an Xtreme, with upgrades and new warranty. Both new cameras and upgrades are available starting August 2025.

Still ARRI: Standards, Stability, and Support

ARRI maintains its reputation for system consistency: the Xtreme’s workflows are identical to previous ALEXA 35 cameras, with the same on-set and post-production handling, same metadata structures, and same reliability for field production. The upgrade is hardware-based (main board, processor, memory), not a firmware patch. All documentation and service options remain available globally through ARRI’s service network.

As always: Do your own real-world testing before critical production use, especially with ARRICORE, Sensor Overdrive, and high-speed workflow integrations.

The post ARRI ALEXA 35 Xtreme: Frame Rates up, Data Rates Down, Everything Else… Still ARRI first appeared on DIGITAL PRODUCTION and was written by Bela Beier.