Confirmed: Chinese manufacturer (probably Viltrox) will soon launch three E and Z-mount zoom lenses!

A reliable leaker on Weibo wrote this:

Chinese zoom autofocus lenses are under development. Mr. Ma has confirmed through news channels that two domestic brands are currently developing new zoom AF lenses. One of them has approved two full-frame zoom AF lenses and at least one APS-C frame zoom AF lens, and the first launch of the bayonet mount is E and Z.

In addition, the news of domestic F1.4 full-frame large aperture AF lens has been confirmed. If everything goes well, it is expected that one or two F1.4 large aperture AF lenses will be launched in 2024, ensuring one and striving for two, with commonly used focal lengths, and the first launch of the bayonet mount is E and Z.

Companies like Viltrox and 7Artisans already offer autofocus prime lenses. Making zoom lenses is much harder because the autofocus algorithm gets much more complicated. Now it seems like Chinese manufacturers tackled the issue and we are getting three E and Z-mount zoom lenses this year already!

My bet is that Viltrox will be the first Chinese company launching an AF zoom lens in 2025. Just a reminder: Viltrox teased the launch of many fast primes…including f/1.4 primes like mentioned by the leaker:

  • Viltrox AF135mm F1.8 LAB E full frame
  • Viltrox AF35mm F1.2 LAB E full frame
  • Viltrox AF50mm F1.2 LAB E full frame
  • Viltrox AF85mm F1.2 LAB E full frame
  • Viltrox AF35mm F1.4 Pro E full frame
  • Viltrox AF50mm F1.4 Pro E full frame
  • Viltrox AF85mm F1.4 Pro E full frame

Now that’s cool! Samyang just announced the World’s First Optical Exchange AF Lens!

Wow! It’s rare to see real innovation and today Samyang really delivered it! They just announced the world’s first optical exchange AF lens! The bad news is that this lens will for now only be available for purchase in Korea. What I like about this lens is:

  • first of all is that it is extremely compact but still has autofocus .
  • That it is compact and still has f/2.8 aperture!
  • switchable 21-28-32mm focal length. Cool!

Now, it’s so disappointing to learn the lens will not be available outside Korea yet…but I hope this will change soon.

Press text:

World’s First Optical Exchange AF Lens
This innovative technology allows you to exchange only the optical elements (optical system) inside the lens instead of replacing the entire lens of the camera. This technology allows you to use lenses with various optical characteristics in one lens body, greatly increasing the flexibility of photo and video shooting and efficiently saving space. The magnetically fixed bayonet mount is easy to exchange and can be quickly replaced depending on the situation.
The 21mm, 28mm, and 32mm optical systems are inspired by legendary P&S film cameras of the past. These lenses have been reborn with designs optimized for digital sensors while maintaining their unique characteristics.

Left: The new lens Right: 24mm f/2.8

Smaller, Lighter, More Versatile
Remaster slim is smaller and lighter than previous models, while adding more features to make it even more powerful. This model offers enhanced portability and various shooting features that users need, delivering outstanding performance in any shooting environment. Despite its small size of less than 2cm and weight of less than 80g, it features a custom AF/MF switch for upgraded versatility. Additionally, in MF mode, the MOD is shortened, allowing you to capture subjects more dynamically and realistically. This small and cute lens will transform any E-mount mirrorless camera into a portable auto camera.

Modern Technology with Classic Charm
Remaster Slim reinterprets the characteristics of classic optical systems with modern technology, offering even richer expression. The subject in focus is depicted delicately and in detail, while the out-of-focus background blur creates a more painterly image. Additionally, depending on the type and intensity of the light source, a soft glow effect appears at the edges of the subject, softening skin tones and adding a poetic feel to the photos. These features help photographers maximize the artistic value and emotion they express.

Classic Aesthetics with Analog Sensibility
Remaster Slim provides a genuine analog sensibility that is distinctly different from smartphone images created with digital technology. This lens creates warm and profound images that cannot be imitated by the digital world, giving photos a natural and soft tone. It retains the detail and texture of classic optical systems while meeting modern photography demands. Through this, users can experience a unique connection between the past and the present.