So why is it that digital SLR cameras never had a Live View feature until now? Until now, in order to allow for Live View functionality, the image sensor needed to stay on at all times, which not only would waste a lot of battery power but would also heat up the image sensor resulting in poor image quality. In order to overcome these shortcomings, the Live MOS sensor was developed. Miniaturization technologies and refinements on the actuation methods allowed for a lower power consuming image sensor with lower heat dissipation.

Another big problem was dust accumulation on the image sensor. With the mirror up and shutter open, there was a risk of dust or debris landing on the image sensor. The powerful dust reduction system in the OLYMPUS E-SYSTEM is another reason that Live View is now possible.