Canon’s recent patent application for the Canon RF 70-150mm f/2L IS USM has photography enthusiasts buzzing with anticipation. In Japan’s patent 2024-154138, Canon presents the specs of a high-performance zoom lens that could soon cater to the needs of today’s pixel-dense digital cameras. Designed to meet demands for impeccable optics and bokeh, Canon’s plans hint at a professional-grade tool with a wide aperture and robust zoom range.
High Expectations for a Premium Lens
Canon’s description of this lens signals a device that will likely carry a high price tag. The complexity of its construction alone suggests premium quality. For instance, its optical assembly features elements precisely crafted to deliver consistent performance across the zoom range. While the lens’s back focus distance is short, at around 14mm, Canon has previously shown it can accommodate such designs for its RF mount.
The Canon RF 70-130mm f/2.0L IS USM embodies Canon’s vision for a high-performance lens in a short telephoto range. Here’s a look at the specifications Canon included in this patent:
- Wide: 72.10mm focal length, f/2.05 aperture, 16.70° angle of view, 21.64mm half-image height, 198mm length, and 13.90mm back focus distance.
- Middle: 97.26mm focal length, f/2.05 aperture, 12.54° angle of view.
- Telephoto: 130.95mm focal length, f/2.05 aperture, 9.38° angle of view.
These specifications indicate a tightly engineered lens with consistent high-quality output across its zoom range. Canon enthusiasts can expect sharpness and optical clarity for both stills and video applications.
| Spec | Wide | Middle | Telephoto |
| Focal Length | 72.10 | 101.30 | 145.50 |
| F-Number | 2.05 | 2.05 | 2.05 |
| Angle of View | 16.70 | 12.06 | 8.46 |
| Half Image Height | 21.64 | 21.64 | 21.64 |
| Total Lens Length | 227.00 | 227.00 | 227.00 |
| Back Focus Distance | 13.90 | 13.90 | 13.90 |
Canon RF 70-150mm f/2L IS USM: Pushing the Boundaries
Taking things a step further, Canon has included another impressive variation in this patent—the Canon RF 70-150mm f2L IS USM. With a focal length at its upper end nearing 145.5mm, it wouldn’t be surprising if Canon rounds it up to 150mm. Known for “rounding up” to achieve appealing focal length numbers, Canon might market this lens as a 70-150mm.
- Wide: 72.10mm focal length, f/2.05 aperture, 16.70° angle of view, 21.64mm half-image height, 227mm length, and 13.90mm back focus distance.
- Middle: 101.30mm focal length, f/2.05 aperture, 12.06° angle of view.
- Telephoto: 145.50mm focal length, f/2.05 aperture, 8.46° angle of view.
The RF 70-150mm promises a longer zoom reach with unmatched clarity. With the “hold my beer” attitude toward pushing design boundaries, Canon has undoubtedly created a large, likely hefty piece of equipment with pro-level performance.
Variations and Market Potential
Beyond these options, Canon’s patent reveals other potential zoom ranges, including a 70-200mm f/2.8. While these concepts may or may not reach production, Canon’s commitment to exploring new lens possibilities is clear. The addition of a 70-150mm f/2 lens could complement Canon’s RF 28-70mm f/2.0L, already praised for its versatility.
As Canon continues to innovate in lens design, patents like these serve as a reminder of its dedication to enhancing imaging technology. Whether this model becomes a reality or remains a concept, the Canon RF 70-150mm f/2L IS USM embodies the future of photography—a powerful blend of innovation, optics, and expert engineering.