Is Canon About to Kill Its Own RF 16mm F2.8?

Over the past few months, we have seen multiple patents from camera brands. Panasonic has patented switching rings, Nikon has patented a few prime lenses, while Canon offers some designs of 45mm and 70-200mm amongst others. As part of their new filings, Canon has released a patent that revises its iconic 16mm lens. Here’s what is different.

First published by Asobinet, the Canon patent, P2026122508, showcases three different focal ranges, 14mm, 16mm and 20mm, all of which have a f1.8 aperture. The goal of the patent is to offer lenses that are compact and are designed for a quick autofocus system.

Example 1

• Focal length: 14.42
• F-number: 1.85
• Half-Angle of Traction: 56.32
• Image height: 21.64
• Length: 108.50
• Back Focus: 12.62

Example 2

• Focal length: 15.97
• F-number: 1.85
• Half-Angle of View: 53.56
• Image height: 21.64
• Overall length: 103.50
• Back Focus: 14.90

Example 3

• Focal length: 19.40
• F-number: 1.85
• Half-Field Angle: 48.12
• Image height: 21.64
• Overall length: 98.50
• Back focus: 14.16

Compared to the existing Canon lenses, these lenses seem entirely new. The company has the 16mm f2.8, an affordable lens that is as compact as the 50mm f1.8, and is ideal for many beginners interested in landscape or astrophotography. In fact, the 16mm was recommended by us on multiple occasions for those who want a lens under $500. In our review, we adored the lens, adding:

The Canon RF 16mm f2.8 STM is an Instagram-ready lens that captures wide-angles affordably and without weighing the camera down. I can easily see new photographers loving the ultra-wide view and quirky distortion that such a wide view creates. The colors are right on the mark and the autofocus works great.

Canon already offers a 14mm and 20mm f1.4L series version, both of which are quite expensive, so, can only be purchased by professionals. This leaves young photographers wanting more. In a way, f1.8 versions, especially like the 16mm f2.8, can be of help. Sure, one can rely on third-party lenses, but the autofocus of such lenses can be somewhat slower than that of the first-party lenses. Given the lens’ range, it appears that Canon is willing to fill the gap, rather than add more upgrades to existing optics.

So, what could this mean in the longer run?

Canon users will get a new category that can be helpful for their day-to-day use. F1.8 can really benefit low-light shooters across the genres, and can be great additions for those who want a second lens for their personal projects. For instance, environmental portrait photographers and photojournalists can gain some benefit with a cheap 14mm, 16mm, or 20mm lens. In the end, if the lenses are manufactured and sold, then the price point will affect the demand. Canon has already made massive profits due to the tariff returns, which means they should consider focusing on having more budget-friendly options.

Canon has already given Sigma and Tamron permission to make first-party APS-C lenses, but all eyes are on whether full-frame users will receive cost-effective lenses anytime soon. As a result, Canon must make something incredible for those who are still interested in the new lenses.

Our question in all this: can Canon really keep up? It’s quite weird to go to a manufacturers website to look for a lens and not see the Canon RF mount option but to instead see the Sony, L, and Nikon variants.