Canon's Patent Filings Reveal Three New Lens Designs for EOS R System

Canon has filed patent applications in Japan for three new prime lenses: a 130mm f/1.8, a 300mm f/2.8, and a 500mm f/5.6. These applications, originally submitted in October 2024, were published on April 21. While patent filings don't guarantee production, their introduction would significantly enhance Canon's EOS R lineup. The 300mm f/2.8 design, described as 273mm long, addresses a notable gap in Canon's RF offerings, despite the existing RF 100-300mm f/2.8L IS USM lens priced at $10,599. Earlier in 2024, Canon also patented an RF 300mm f/2.8 with a built-in 1.4x extender. The 500mm f/5.6 lens, approximately 300mm in length, recalls the classic EF 400mm f/5.6L USM from 1993. Wildlife photographers could benefit from such a compact, affordable telephoto prime. The 130mm f/1.8 patent appears less viable due to its similarity to the existing RF 135mm f/1.8L IS USM, which measures 130mm, weighs 935g, and costs $2,099. An 85mm f/1.4 design was also included in the applications but seems redundant given Canon's previous releases. Asobinet and Canon Rumors reported on these developments, noting the usual caveat that patents don't equate to product launches.