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Patents are some of the most exciting things a photographer can get their hands on. Not only do they give one an idea about the kind of lens the companies are interested in creating, but also whether something like this will be of use to them. With Canon filing multiple patents in the past few weeks, we realised that they are keen on creating newer zoom lenses for mirrorless cameras. This not only includes models like the L series, but also other lenses that are more affordable. An example is their latest patent for a new 70-200mm lens. What is it? Let’s find out.
In a report by Asobinet, Canon has recently published a new patent, P2025082363, on May 29. Per this, the company is not only working on a 70-200mm with an f4 aperture, but also a new APS-C lens, the 18-50mm f4.
70-200mm f4
- Focal length: 73.68-194.48
- F-number: 4.10
- Half angle of view: 16.36-6.35
- Image height: 21.64
- Total length: 198.01
- Back focus: 49.13-65.78
18-50mm f4
- Focal length: 18.54-52.02
- F-number: 4.10
- Half angle of view: 33.06-14.50
- Image height: 13.66
- Total length: 130.47
- Back Focus: 14.72-14.72
The report states that both lenses will have an internal focusing system but will also be lightweight and compact. The latter is important for mirrorless cameras, which seem to be getting smaller with time. A huge lens will simply look odd on a diminutive body.
Starting with the 70-200mm f4, we aren’t sure if this is an update to the RF 70-200mm f4 L IS USM, which was launched in 2021, and was an alternative to the expensive f2.8 version. However, there is also a chance that this may not be an L-version, but rather the most cost-effective variant for people who can’t afford a bright aperture lens. As for the 18-50mm, the APS-C lens could be designed as a kit lens for Canon users. But there is a chance that it may be created for hybrid users, since a lot of APS-C lenses are designed for that.
On the whole, Canon’s patent appears to be highlighting the company’s need for more affordable lenses. This could be due to them facing a challenge from third-party makers like Sigma and Tamron, but also Chinese lens manufacturers like Sirui, Viltrox, and 7Artisans. This also brings to mind that Canon absolutely needs a partnership like Nikon has with Tamron. Tamron now makes faster f2.8 lenses, which are cost-effective and work perfectly well with Nikon cameras. For instance, the 70-180mm f2.8 G2 and the 28-75mm f2.8 G2. This way, while there is an option for one to buy Nikon’s premium lenses, they also have room to get second, affordable lenses, that can save a little over $1,000.
Another thing, affordable does not mean that you must get half-baked products. Some people photograph for passion, rather than to make a living out of it. And for them, buying equipment should not become a burden, as it may seem to many now.
This article was written with inputs from Gear Editor Feroz Khan.
