Canon Announcements (Page 17)

Canon has announced three new EF f/2.8 Lens additions to their lineup:

Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8 L II USM Lens
Canon EF 24mm f/2.8 IS USM Lens
Canon EF 28mm f/2.8 IS USM Lens

The UK Press Release is also available.

I have the review pages loaded onto the site with an addition lens image along with lens specifications included in the comparison tool (the full reviews will of course come after the lenses become available):

Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8 L II USM Lens Review
Canon EF 24mm f/2.8 IS USM Lens Review
Canon EF 28mm f/2.8 Lens Review

Canon U.S.A. Announces New PIXMA Printers With AirPrint Support

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., February 7, 2012 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging, today announced AirPrint1 support in the PIXMA MX512 and MX432 Wireless2 Office All-In-One inkjet printers. AirPrint enables iPad, iPhone and iPod touch users to wirelessly print photos, email, web pages and documents without the need to install device drivers, saving time and enabling a seamless user experience.

AirPrint will be available with the majority of Canon PIXMA Wireless All-In-One inkjet printers launched from this point forward. AirPrint1 works with iPad, iPad 2, iPhone 3GS, iPhone 4, iPhone 4S and iPod touch (3rd generation and later) running using iOS 4.2 or later.

All referenced product names, and other marks, are trademarks of their respective owners.

Availability, prices, and specifications of all products are subject to change without notice. Actual prices are set by individual dealers and may vary.

iPad, iPhone, and iPod touch are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. AirPrint and the AirPrint logo are trademarks of Apple Inc. All other product and brand names are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of their respective companies.

1 Printer firmware update may be necessary for AirPrint function. Certain exception may apply. AirPrint functionality requires an iPad, iPhone 3GS or later, or iPod touch 3rd generation or later device running iOS 4.2 or later, and an AirPrint-enabled printer connected to the same network as your iOS device. A printer connected to the USB port of your Mac, PC, AirPort Base Station, or Time Capsule is not supported.

2 Wireless printing requires a working network with wireless 802.11b/g or 802.11n capability. Wireless performance may vary based on terrain and distance between the printer and wireless network clients.

New PowerShot Lineup Enables Photographers To Stay Connected While Capturing Legendary Canon Image Quality

Highlighted Features include Wi-Fi, Powerful Optical Zoom and Ruggedness

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., February 7, 2012 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today announced the addition of four PowerShot digital cameras: the ELPH 530 HS, ELPH 320 HS, SX260 HS, and D20. Photographers no longer have to sacrifice image quality for the ability to instantly share images and videos with the use of the PowerShot ELPH 530 HS and ELPH 320 HS Wi-Fi enabled cameras. The PowerShot SX260 HS camera puts Canon's amazing optical reach into a pocket sized camera, with a 20x optical zoom (25mm to 500mm) letting you pull subjects in close. Designed for the adventurous photographer looking to take spectacular photos, the rugged PowerShot D20 camera is ideally suited for the backpacker, snowboarder or tropical-traveler.

"Canon wants to help people capture the best images possible with the ability to quickly and easily share them with the world. With new PowerShot features such as Wi-Fi connectivity, people can quickly upload and share images on social networks," said Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Imaging Technologies & Communications Group, Canon U.S.A. "Whether it's a powerful zoom, Wi-Fi or waterproof features, our new PowerShot lineup empowers people to be creative with their photography. There are good enough images and there are great images, we always aim to help people capture the best images."

Mobile Sharing with Excellent Image Quality

The Wi-Fi functionality built into the two ELPH models allow for a variety of connection options to help photographers share, upload, or back-up images. Users can connect directly to a wireless network from their camera to upload photos and videos to the Canon iMAGE GATEWAYi, an online service that lets registered users store images to an online album, and then post their content to social networks such as Facebook, YouTube and Twitter.

In March, the Canon CameraWindow application is expected to be available on the Apple App Store for the iPad, iPhone and iPod Touch (ii) to further enhance the connectivity options. With this App, users can transfer and save images and videos from the camera to compatible iOS devices, which can then be directly uploaded to Facebook and YouTube or emailed. Photos and videos can also be shared on-the-spot with friends and family by transmitting to another current Wi-Fi-enabled Canon camera as well. A similar app is expected to be available in May for Android devices.

Canon PowerShot ELPH 530 HS Digital Camera

The flagship of the ELPH line, the .78 inches thick ELPH 530 HS camera has the classic style of the original ELPH design while also being Wi-Fi enabled and packing an amazing 12x optical zoom lens to capture great shots from a distance. Canon's HS SYSTEM has been included where the 10-megapixel high-sensitivity CMOS sensor will work in tandem with the camera's DIGIC 5 image processor to help produce high-quality images in low-light conditions. The ELPH 530 HS will also shoot 1080p Full HD video helping capture footage in crystal clear clarity. This new model sports a 3.2-inch LCD touch screen for simple and intuitive operation and menu navigation, Smart AUTO scene selection with 58 scenes, Face ID for optimal images of up to 12 registered subjects and the Intelligent Image Stabilization (IS) function. The camera will be available in black or white for an estimated retail price of $349.99 and is expected to ship in April.

Canon PowerShot ELPH 320 HS Digital Camera

The Canon PowerShot ELPH 320 HS camera makes the perfect on-the-go camera for the young and active photographer, with Wi-Fi connectivity for easy uploading of memorable moments. The HS SYSTEM has also been included on this model with the 16.1 megapixel high-sensitivity CMOS and DIGIC 5 image processor working together to produce high-quality, low-light images. For those users who value high-quality video, the camera has 1080p Full HD capabilities as well. A 5x-Optical Zoom 24mm wide-angle lens will help expand the shooting capabilities of the camera and a 3.2-inch LCD touch screen for simple and intuitive operation and menu navigation. This camera will also feature Smart AUTO scene selection with 58 scenes and Face ID in addition to Intelligent IS. The camera will be available in four eye-catching colors (black, silver, blue and red) for an estimated retail price of $279.99 and is expected to ship in March.

Canon PowerShot SX260 HS Digital Camera

Canon's PowerShot SX260 HS camera delivers a powerful 20x Optical Zoom and 25mm Wide-Angle lens with Optical Image Stabilization delivers stunning images from up close or at a distance and measuring just 1.29-inches thick. The camera's impressive zoom is accompanied by Canon's HS SYSTEM for improved low-light shooting with a 12.1-megapixel high-sensitivity CMOS sensor and DIGIC 5 image processor. Combining this incredible zoom and high-image quality will allow photographers of all levels to capture great photos or 1080p Full HD video up close and at a distance, all in one portable, powerful digital camera. The Smart AUTO scene selection with 58 scenes and Face ID has also been included in this incredibly diverse yet compact device. The camera also includes Intelligent IS and GPS photo tagging with location and elevation information to help plot exactly where your travels have taken you. Adding to the feature-set is High-Speed Burst HQ allowing for approximately 10 high-resolution shots to be captured at a continuous rate at 10.3 frames per second. The camera will be available in three colors - black, green and red - and is expected to be available in March for an estimated retail price of $349.99.

Canon PowerShot D20 Digital Camera

Waterproof (iii), shock-proof (iv), and freeze-proof(v) the PowerShot D20 is built with the active photographer in mind. Outfitted with an easy-to-access button, the camera enables users to switch from normal photo mode to snow or underwater mode, even with gloves on. To help make the underwater photos as great as those captured on dry land, the camera has a built-in underwater macro mode producing amazing pictures up close while diving or snorkeling. When recording video, the camera includes wind reduction technology to help capture clear audio even in breezy conditions. It touts an impressive array of features including the HS SYSTEM incorporating a 12.1-megapixel high-sensitivity CMOS sensor and DIGIC 4 image processor, 1080p Full HD video and a 5x optical zoom lens. Also included is a 3.0-inch LCD screen, GPS-capabilities allowing users to track their locations and tag each photo with latitude, longitude, and elevation information and Intelligent IS (vi). The PowerShot D20 camera is expected to ship in May 2012 for an estimated retail price of $349.99.

† Based on weekly patent counts issued by United States Patent and Trademark Office.

All referenced product names, and other marks, are trademarks of their respective owners.

Availability, prices, and specifications of all products are subject to change without notice. Actual prices are set by individual dealers and may vary.

i Canon iMAGE GATEWAY Online Photo Album available starting February 14, 2012. One-time registration will be required.
ii Compatible with iOS 4.3 or later versions.
iii Down to 33 feet
iv Up to 5 feet
v As low as 14 degrees Fahrenheit
vi GPS functions will not operate while the camera is under water.

B&H carries Canon PowerShot Cameras.

Capture Life's Unexpected Moments In Superb Image Quality With Canon U.S.A.'s New, Easy To Use And Re-Designed PowerShot A-series Cameras

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., February 7, 2011 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today announced six PowerShot A-series digital cameras with improved operability that produce outstanding images and feature a high-quality, stylish re-design in a variety of fashionable colors. Canon's PowerShot A-series models have been instrumental for entry-level users in learning the joys of photography and these new models continue this tradition with features such as 16-megapixel sensor, 720p HD video capture and a 28mm wide-angle lens to capture images of large groups at a family function or of a child on the playground.

PowerShot A-series models are known not only for producing high-image quality but also being easy to use as well. For the first time in a PowerShot A-series model, the A4000 IS, A3400 IS and A2400 IS models will feature Intelligent IS so the camera automatically selects the most effective image stabilization mode ensuring users always capture the best results. In addition, all of the models announced today will have the Smart AUTO feature with 32 shooting modes that selects the appropriate camera setting based on the users shooting environment. Additionally, for the first time in a PowerShot camera, each model will have a Help button to provide an explanation of various shooting modes to help the user along the way.

"The new additions to Canon's new PowerShot A-series lineup will provide entry-level users with many options to unlock their creativity and capture high-quality images at a budget-friendly price," said Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Imaging Technologies & Communications Group, Canon U.S.A.

PowerShot A4000 IS and PowerShot A3400 IS Cameras

The Canon PowerShot A4000 IS and PowerShot A3400 IS cameras will each have a Genuine Canon Lens with Optical Image Stabilization allowing users to capture up-close details and wide landscapes. For the PowerShot A4000 IS camera, there will be an impressive 8x-Optical Zoom lens, the longest to date for a PowerShot A-series model, and the PowerShot A3400 IS camera will have a 5x-Optical Zoom. In addition, both cameras will have a 3-inch LCD screen; however, the PowerShot A3400 camera's screen will be Touch Panel, another first for a PowerShot A-series model, with Touch Focus and Touch Shutter shooting modes for enhanced camera operation. The PowerShot A4000 IS camera is scheduled to be available in February in black, silver, blue, red and pink for an estimated retail price of $199.99. The PowerShot A3400 IS camera is scheduled to be available in March in black, silver, red and gold for an estimated retail price of $179.99.

PowerShot A2400 IS and PowerShot A2300 Cameras

The PowerShot A2400 IS and PowerShot A2300 cameras both feature a 5x-Optical Zoom and a 2.7-inch LCD screen. The PowerShot A2400 IS camera will also have Optical Image Stabilization and is scheduled to be available in March in black, silver, blue and pink for an estimated retail price of $159.99. The PowerShot A2300 camera is scheduled to be available in March for an estimated retail price of $149.99 in black, silver, red and blue.

PowerShot A1300 and PowerShot A810 Cameras

For the more traditional camera user, the PowerShot A1300 camera comes equipped with an optical viewfinder adding to the versatility of this model. Additionally, both the PowerShot A1300 and PowerShot A810 cameras feature a 5x-Optical Zoom lens, 2.7-inch LCD screen and use AA batteries allowing for easy replacement whether at home or on a family vacation. The PowerShot A1300 camera is scheduled to be available in April for an estimated retail price of $119.99, in black and silver. The PowerShot A810 camera is scheduled to be available in April for an estimated retail price of $109.99, in black, silver and red.

B&H carries Canon PowerShot Cameras.

The Canon PowerShot G1 X, ELPH 520 HS and ELPH 110 HS Digital Cameras have been announced.

You definitely want to read about the large-sensored Canon PowerShot G1 X.

Canon has announced the VIXIA HF M52 and R32 Flash Memory Camcorders.

Canon USA has informed me that they expect the new Canon EF 500mm f/4.0 L IS II USM Lens and Canon EF 600mm f/4.0 L IS II USM Lens to be available in April.

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., November 16, 2011 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today announced updated availability information for three of its EF lenses:

Canon EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM EXTENDER l.4x lens availability yet to be determined
Canon EF 500mm f/4L IS II USM lens availability yet to be determined
Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS II USM lens availability yet to be determined
Additional information regarding the shipping date of each lens will be made available as soon as possible.

Canon EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM EXTENDER l.4x lens

The EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM EXTENDER l.4x is being developed as an L-series super-telephoto lens with an integrated 1.4x extender and high-performance Image Stabilizer technology. The new lens will offer exceptional flexibility by incorporating a built-in 1.4x extender that increases the maximum focal length to 560mm for sports and wildlife photography. High-quality images with high levels of resolution and contrast will be possible through the use of advanced optical materials such as fluorite crystal. The new lens will also include dust- and water-resistant construction designed for extended usage under harsh conditions.

Canon EF 500mm f/4L IS II USM Lens for Sports and Nature Photography

The Canon EF 500mm f/4L IS II USM offers professional photographers a lighter weight option for those situations that require a long focal length with improved image quality and enhanced durability over its predecessor. Great for a wide range of applications, the EF 500mm f/4L IS II USM lens is ideal for professional photojournalism, sports photography and nature and wildlife photography. The optical formula of the new lens has been enhanced to include two fluorite lens elements for improved image quality and reduced chromatic aberration. Canon has reduced the overall weight of the lens by 18 percent from 136.5 oz to 112.5 oz.

The Canon EF 500mm f/4L IS II USM lens is expected to be available for an estimated retail price of $10,499.

Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS II USM Lens for Wildlife and Photojournalism

The Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS II USM is the successor to the current EF 600mm IS lens first introduced in 1999. This new lens has been engineered for outstanding optical performance and durability and includes two new fluorite lens elements for improved quality and reduced chromatic aberration. Helping photographers in the field, Canon has reduced the overall weight of the lens by a substantial 27 percent from 189.1 oz to 138.3 oz.

The Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS II USM lens is expected to be available for an estimated retail price of $12,999.

Bad news: The Canon EF 500mm f/4.0 L IS II USM Lens, Canon EF 600mm f/4.0 L IS II USM Lens, and Canon EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM Ext 1.4x Lens have been delayed indefinitely. Here is my translation with Google's help:

EOS Series Lens release date change information

Thank you for your patronage.

The release date on the announced EOS lenses listed below have been changed.

Summary of Changes

The Canon EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM Ext 1.4x Lens was originally expected to be (formally) announced on February 07, 2011 and scheduled for release later this year. This launch has also been delayed indefinitely. A release date for this lens will be announced when it is known.

We appologize for the inconvenience caused by these delays and will continue to make every effort to launch the new lenses. We look forward to your continued patronage.

 
Hopefully I didn't damage that announcement translation too badly (thanks Kaz).

I added many images to the following press releases:

Canon EOS C300 Digital Cinema Camera

Canon Prime and Zoom Cinema Lenses for Cinema EOS System

Canon 4K Concept DSLR

The lenses are calling me. But at those prices, ouch. Maybe Roger at LensRentals.com will let me try his out.

Canon has announced that a 4K Concept DSLR is under development.

Canon Prime and Zoom Cinema Lenses for Cinema EOS System have been announced.

The Canon EOS C300 Digital Cinema Camera has been announced.

Canon Announces Cinema EOS System

The Canon Cinema EOS System website has more information.

Official press releases are not yet available, but you can track the event live at Engadget.

I'll post more information when it becomes available.

Canon Europe has announced the Canon PIXMA PRO-1 Flagship Printer.

The Canon EOS-1D X Digital SLR Camera UK Press Release reveals more information about the new 1D X - a link to this release is now included at the bottom of the Canon EOS-1D X Digital SLR Camera Review placeholder page.

Replacing the Canon EOS-1D Mark IV and the Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III is the just-announced Canon EOS-1D X DSLR.

Some pics are available on the Canon EOS-1D X Digital SLR Camera Review placeholder page. I plan to add more information to the review page later today.

Canon press release:

CANON U.S.A. LAUNCHES THREE PIXMA ALL-IN-ONE PHOTO PRINTERS WITH HIGH-END PRINTING FEATURES AT AN AFFORDABLE PRICE

Featuring the new FastFront System and Software Upgrades to Easy-PhotoPrint EX and Full HD Movie Print

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., October 18, 2011 - Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging, today announced three new PIXMA printers – the MG4120 Wireless1 Photo All-In-One, MG3120 Wireless1 Photo All-In-One and the MG2120 Photo All-In-One (AIO) printers. Combining function, reliability and creativity, these new models offer users the opportunity to print high-quality images to share with friends and family. The new MG4120 is also compatible with the PIXMA Cloud Link2 for easy printing of photos and templates directly through the printer without the use of a computer on the 2.4 inch color LCD screen.

Print with ease with the new FastFront system

With the new FastFront system, the ink storage and paper tray are conveniently located in the front of the machine, allowing access for users to easily load ink or paper. All three printers feature the ChromaLife 100 ink system3, which utilizes a two cartridge system, one black and one color. The new ink system on-board this year helps deliver the high quality photos you can expect from PIXMA printers while providing brilliant colors particularly in yellow and red areas, especially on plain paper. To help optimize user workflow and print with ease, Auto Duplex printing is also available for the first time in this class on both the MG4120 and MG3120 printer, helping to reduce paper usage by up to 50 percent. As an added bonus, when using these new printers consumers will be provided with exclusive printable content through CREATIVE PARK PREMIUM4. The content on this site includes postcards, albums and many more projects including paintings by artists such as Norman Rockwell.

“It is an exciting time in the printing industry with new technologies and features helping users print in new and creative ways,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Imaging Technologies and Communications Group, Canon U.S.A. “The launch of these impressive models is a prime opportunity to showcase Canon’s renowned efficiency and ease-of-use in overall printing.”

Personalize your prints with new creative features

Full HD Movie Print5 software has been enhanced as well to produce clearer images of frames from videos captured on compatible HD Canon EOS and PowerShot Digital Cameras. Users can easily tell the story of videos from memorable events, frame by frame in a more unique way than before by merging multiple images into one final shot, capturing nearly every portion of the action. Consumers can explore their photographic creativity when customizing images with the recently enhanced Easy-PhotoPrint EX software. This updated software from Canon allows users to artistically alter images to create fun new looks using Fun-Filter Effects such as Fish-Eye, Miniature, Toy Camera, Soft Focus and Blur Background.

Accessibility at its finest

With the capabilities of mobile and wireless devices continuously advancing, the PIXMA MG4120 and MG3120 Wireless Photo AIO printers can print from nearly any computer or mobile device. Compatible Android and Apple smart phones and tablets enjoy enhanced accessibility through the updated Easy-PhotoPrint mobile app6. Users can now scan documents on the printer to be sent directly to a compatible mobile device. These PDF’s can now be printed on a compatible PIXMA printer for convenient on-the-go access.

The PIXMA MG4120 and MG3120 Wireless Photo AIO printers are 802.11n Wi-Fi certified, allowing for a fast network transfer rate. Setting up either printer to a wireless network can be done with the press of one button when using Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS). In addition, Canon offers its award-winning service and support online at www.usa.canon.com/wirelesshelp, where customers have access to manuals and video tutorials to assist them in setting up a wireless PIXMA device.

Increasing its wireless versatility, the PIXMA MG4120 Wireless Photo AIO printer supports the new PIXMA Cloud Link, which allows registered users of CANON iMAGE GATEWAY or Google’s Picasa Web Albums to wirelessly access their photo albums stored in those services directly on the printerwithout the use of a computer6. Additionally, users of the MG4120 will also have access to exclusive printing templates including stationery, envelopes, memos, calendars.

Canon PIXMA MG4120 Wireless, MG3120 Wireless and MG2120 Photo AIO printer

Delivering superb color at affordable prices, the PIXMA MG4120 Wireless Photo AIO, MG3120 Wireless Photo AIO and the MG2120 Photo AIO each deliver a maximum color resolution of 4800 x 1200 dpi7. The PIXMA MG4120 Wireless Photo AIO printer can output at approximately 9.9 ipm for black-and-white documents and approximately 5.7 ipm for color8. The PIXMA MG3120 Wireless Photo AIO printer delivers output at approximately 9.2 ipm for black-and-white documents and approximately 5.0 ipm for color8. The PIXMA MG2120 Photo AIO printer provides output at approximately 8.4 ipm for black-and-white documents and approximately 4.8 ipm for color8. All three printers can produce a 4” x 6” borderless10 photo in approximately 44 seconds9.

The PIXMA MG4120 Wireless, MG3120 Wireless and MG2120 Photo All-in-One Printers will have an estimated selling price of $129.99, $79.99 and $69.99 respectively11.

CANON iMAGE GATEWAY

CANON iMAGE GATEWAY is an exclusive online photography resource and service for owners of registered qualified Canon products. Camera owners who have registered a qualifying Canon camera via their Canon Account can upload and share up to 2GB of photos with friends and family. Members also gain access to informative photography-related articles on topics such as macro shooting, portrait photography, printing tips and print projects to get the most out of their photos. Owners of registered qualifying printers can use their photos to create greeting cards, calendars and much more with Print Projects! Printer members are provided with a wide array of helpful articles to enhance their experience with their Canon printer and to help them create inspiring projects.

†Based on weekly patent counts issued by United States Patent and Trademark Office.

All referenced product names, and other marks, are trademarks of their respective owners.

1 Wireless printing requires a working network with wireless 802.11b/g or 802.11n capability. Wireless performance may vary based on terrain and distance between the printer and wireless network clients.

2 Subject to the Terms and Conditions of use of CANON iMAGE GATEWAY or Picasa Web Albums, depending on the service the consumer is using.

3 Canon cannot guarantee the longevity of prints; results may vary depending on printed image, drying time, display/storage conditions and environmental factors. See www.usa.canon.com/chromalife100 for additional details.

4 To access CREATIVE PARK PREMIUM from a qualifying printer, all of the software and the full set of Genuine Canon Inks that came with the printer must be properly installed.

5 Full HD Movie Print allows printing from HD or Full HD "MOV" movie files created by Canon EOS Digital SLR or PowerShot digital cameras. From PC, or Mac with Intel® processor. Print quality is determined by video resolution. Function does not upscale video resolution. Requires Canon ZoomBrowser EX 6.5 or later, or Canon ImageBrowser 6.5 or later.

6 Requires Canon Easy-PhotoPrint for iPhone app, available for free on the App Store, or Canon Easy-PhotoPrint for Android app for free in the Android Market. Compatible with iPhone 3G, 3Gs and 4; iPod touch; and Android devices running Android OS 1.6 or later.

7 Resolution may vary based on printer driver setting. Color ink droplets can be placed with a horizontal pitch of 1/4800 at minimum.

8 ISO/IEC 24734define the default print speed measurement methods. Print speeds are the averages of ESAT in Office Category Test for the default simplex mode, ISO/IEC 24734, excluding time to print the first set. See www.usa.canon.com/ipm for additional details.

9 Photo print speeds are based on the standard mode driver setting using photo test pattern(s) and select Canon Photo Paper. Print speed is measured as soon as the first page begins to feed into the printer and will vary depending on system configuration, interface, software, document complexity, print mode, types of paper used and page coverage. See www.usa.canon.com/printspeed for additional information.

10 Supported paper types for borderless printing are as follows: Photo Paper Pro Platinum, Photo Paper Plus Glossy II, Photo Paper Plus Semi-gloss, Photo Paper Glossy and Matte Photo Paper.

11 Pricing subject to change at any time. Actual prices are set by individual dealers and may vary.

Canon press release:

TOKYO, October 18, 2011—Canon Inc. and Canon Marketing Japan Inc. announced today the achievement of two major manufacturing milestones: combined production of film and digital EOS-series single-lens reflex (SLR) cameras surpassed the 50-million mark in September this year, and the EF series of interchangeable lenses is expected to reach the 70-million-unit milestone later this month.

50 million EOS digital SLR cameras

Production of Canon EOS SLR cameras first started in 1987 at Canon Inc.'s Fukushima Plant (now Fukushima Canon Inc.), and later moved to Oita Canon Inc. and Canon Inc., Taiwan; and most recently Nagasaki Canon Inc. in 2010. In 1997, the EOS series celebrated its 10-year anniversary in addition to the 10-millionth unit produced, and in 2003 passed the 20-million mark. Following the rapid spread of digital SLR cameras, Canon went on to reach 30-million units produced during the series' 20-year anniversary in 2007, followed by the 40-million mark in May 2010. After a short one year and four months, the EOS series has now come to celebrate its 50-millionth camera produced.

The EOS series, which stands for "Electro Optical System" and also carries the name of the Greek goddess of the dawn, was first introduced in March 1987 as a new generation of AF SLR cameras that incorporate the world's first electronic mount system, achieving complete electronic control not only between the lens and body but throughout the entire camera system.

With the key concepts of high speed and ease of use, EOS-series cameras, including the top-of-the-line EOS-1 professional model released in 1989 and the popular compact, lightweight EOS Kiss (EOS Rebel XS or EOS 500 in other regions) introduced in 1993, actively incorporate innovative technologies and have gained acceptance from a wide range of users. Following the introduction of the EOS D30 in 2000, when the spread of digital SLR cameras was in full swing, Canon developed such advanced technologies as its proprietary CMOS sensors and high-performance DIGIC digital image processors, as well as an extensive lineup of EF lenses in an effort to fulfill the company's new key concepts of high speed, ease-of-use, and high image quality.

Currently, the company offers a broad product lineup that serves the needs of all levels of users, from entry-level enthusiasts to advanced amateurs and professionals. This lineup has further expanded with the addition of the new high-performance EOS-1D X, Canon's new flagship digital SLR camera, scheduled to go on sale in late March 2012.

70 million EF lenses

Production of interchangeable EF lenses for Canon EOS-series AF (autofocus) film cameras first began in 1987 at the company's Utsunomiya Plant, and has since expanded to a total of four manufacturing centers, including Canon Inc., Taiwan; Canon Opto (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd.; and Oita Canon Inc. in southern Japan. Production of EF lenses surpassed the 10-million mark in 1995, doubling to 20-million units in 2001. After reaching the 30-million-unit milestone in 2006, Canon celebrated the production of its 40-millionth lens in April 2008. Owing to the rapid spread of the EOS Digital series of digital SLR cameras, production for Canon's EF lenses then gained momentum to reach the 50-million-unit milestone in 2009, followed by the 60-million mark in January this year. And just nine months later, the EF series is expected to reach the 70-million mark in late October.

Canon's EF lens series was first introduced together with the EOS SLR camera system in March 1987, and has over the years led the industry through the incorporation of a number of innovative technologies, including such world's firsts*1 as the Ultrasonic Motor (USM) for use in lenses, Image Stabilizer (IS), Subwavelength Structure Coating (SWC) anti-reflection technology, and a multi-layered diffractive optical (DO) element.

Canon's current EF-lens lineup, comprising 66 models,*2 ranges from super-wide-angle lenses to super-telephoto zoom lenses. The diverse lens selection includes an array of zoom lenses, Image Stabilizer-equipped lenses, large-diameter lenses, macro-lenses and TS-E lenses incorporating a special tilt-shift mechanism allowing manipulation of image perspective and distortion. This year, Canon released such EF lenses as the EF8-15mm f/4L Fisheye USM—the world's first*1 full fisheye zoom lens with angle-of-view coverage from 180-degree circular fisheye to 180-degree diagonal fisheye—and the EF300mm f/2.8L IS II USM and EF400mm f/2.8L IS II USM telephoto lenses.

Canon will continue to refine its diverse imaging technologies based on its core optical technologies, striving to produce exceptional and reliable lenses and cameras that cater to the varying needs of photographers—from first-time users to advanced amateurs and professionals—while contributing to expanding the culture of photographic and video imaging.

*1 Among interchangeable lenses for SLR cameras

*2 Including two EF lens extenders and models available outside of Japan