Over the years, Canon has released multiple patents that showcase its research on various lenses. For instance, we have patents for 300-800mm f8L IS USM, 200-400mm f4 IS USM, or the 500mm f4 IS. Although none of the lenses have become a reality, this highlights the importance of telephoto lenses for Canon users. Adding to this list is the new patent for three prime telephoto lenses, which feature a fast aperture. Here is a glimpse into the patents.
First reported by Canon Rumors, the patent, 特開2025-179579 showcases three different lenses: RF 300mm f2L IS, 200mm f1.8L, and Canon RF 145mm F1.4L IS USM. The lenses are said to be lightweight but also feature “well-corrected aberrations.” The design also appears quite impressive, effectively balancing the elements from the center to the end of the lens. The smaller elements are also said to reduce costs and simplify manufacturing.
Canon RF 300mm F2L IS USM
- Focal Length: 294.95
- F-number: 2.06
- Half Angle of View: 4.20°
- Image Height: 21.64
- Lens Length: 330.02
The patent of the 300mm showcases a much smaller set of elements than the Canon EF300mm f2.8L IS II USM. As a result, the design is practical, and the front element can also reduce the cost of creating the front lens element. The design can also work with teleconferencing, as the back focus distance is suitable. This can be great for anyone who wants to get extra reach, such as bird and wildlife photographers.
Canon RF 200mm f1.8L IS USM
- Focal Length: 195.66
- F-number: 1.85
- Half Angle of View: 6.31°
- Image Height: 21.64
- Lens Length: 233.03
- Back Focus Distance: 37.99
Canon has already created the 200mm f1.8L for EF mount, which was iconic for its time. However, the company now faces competition from Laowa and Sigma, which each offer a 200mm f2 lens for photographers. The only way Canon can stand out is by making the aperture faster and the lens smaller.
The original lens’s design was complicated, but the new patent design showcases a dual focus motor and an image stabilisation group as well. This also leaves room for 1.4x and 2x teleconverters, which can provide more range, allowing one to reach up to 400mm.
Canon RF 145mm f1.4L IS USM
- Focal Length: 145.99
- F-number: 1.44
- Half Angle of View: 8.43°
- Image Height: 21.64
- Lens Length: 205.08
- Back Focus Distance: 12.35
Canon has never designed a focal range of this nature, and the closest focal range that comes to this is the 135mm lens. Now the question remains whether Canon will launch a lens of this nature anytime soon, since the company launched a 135mm f1.8L back in 2024. The lens is large, has a short back focusing distance, which may not appeal to many.
Either way, whether Canon launches these lenses soon or not remains to be seen. However, given that they are researching, it says a lot. Perhaps, the future of telephoto primes is where our world will eventually head.