Leica CEO Andrea Kaufmann just confirmed that Leica is once again developing its own sensor, having used a sensor from AMS in Graz up to the Leica M10 and then switching to Sony sensors for the Leica M11. The development time for such a sensor is around five years. However, they are already quite a bit further along, but he cannot say any more about it at the moment.

It seems that the future Leica M12 and SL4 could be equipped with this new sensor. It is quite surprising that Leica has decided to go its own way. I wonder what prompted them to abandon Sony sensors, which are considered highly innovative and advanced (see the new partially stacked sensor in the Sony A7V or the development of the global shutter on the Sony A9III).

I find it exciting that companies like Leica (and Sigma) are trying to go their own way. And I can’t wait to see what the results will be!

8 months ago at the NAB show 7Artisans announced the development of the new 40mm f/2.5 Full Frame autofocus lens. Finally the lens will be officially launched in January/February. It’s a very compact lens with aperture ring and autofocus.

BHphoto listed the best gear of the year. And below you can find Kai’s list:

This post recaps the standouts Zach Mayfield actually used this year—some new, some older.

The image on top shows the package for a yet to be announced new Viltrox 55mm f/1.8 EVO AF Full Frame Z lens. I have bee told an E-mount version is coming too!

Reader Z.W. (thanks!) sent us this photo of an extremely beautiful and technically impressive SG-Images 35mm f/2.2 autofocus full-frame E-mount lens mounted on the Sony A7c. According to Z.W., the official bundle will likely include a metal square lens hood.

This is a near-final prototype. If the image quality holds up, it could become a very popular compact 35mm option—especially since SG-Images lenses are typically very affordable.

Key details so far

• Focal length: 35mm
• Maximum aperture: f/2.2
• Mount: Sony E (full-frame)
• Autofocus: Yes
• Status: Near-final prototype
• Expected accessory: Metal square lens hood (in bundle)
• Sony E, Nikon Z, Leica L

Brightin Star new 35mm f/1.4 Full Frame manual focusing lens is now available on Amazon for $159 (Click here). You can get it in L/Z/R/RF mount. Looks sexy but I don’t know how good this lens is going to be.