CP+ interview with Sony on their new 400mm lens, Sony a9 and a7 cameras, firmware updates and more

Dpreview published their CP+ interview with Sony. Here is the recap courtesy of SonyAddict:

Sony isn’t strictly defining the a7III, but says consumers and professionals can use it even though it’s their basic camera
The Sony 400mm is a big deal going into 2018
Sports photographers are a new segments Sony is seriously targeting in 2018
The Sony 400mm is very light and doesn’t need a monopod even though most sports photographers are used to using them.
The 400mm f/2.8 is built for the needs of professionals, which is beyond hobbyists.
Sony believes that when conditions get too bad photographers will use some type of camera protection on a7/a9 cameras. They internally test their cameras up to a point.
Professionals are fine with big durable cameras, but hobbyist wants something smaller.
Sony is happy to have Sigma and Tameron making lenses for them now and believe in keeping their mount open.
Sony thinks that Canon/Nikon will have full frame mirrorless cameras by next year at CP+ so within one year.
Sony thinks that the 2020 Olympics will be covered by most mirrorless cameras.
They hope many will use Sony, but it will take time.
Some used a9 at the Olympics this year.
Still emphasizing support for APS-C and that products are coming.
Sony finally seems to think that firmware updates are something they should offer…