The development of a successor to the "RF 35mm F1.8 Macro IS STM"—the bestselling snapshot lens that marked the dawn of Canon's mirrorless era—has been spotted.
According to a recent patent application (Publication No. 2026-090068) released by the Japan Patent Office (JPO), Canon is researching an optical design featuring a new focusing method. This is the second patent related to a 35mm F1.8 lens discovered in recent months, adding significant weight to the possibility of a Version 2 (Mark II) release.
Lightweight Internal Focus Design: Improving Handling and Durability
The most significant change in this patent is the introduction of an "Internal Focus" structure. The first-generation RF 35mm lens utilized an extending barrel design, where the front element moves forward when focusing. In contrast, the new patented design features no movement of the outer lens barrel during focusing. An internal focus system not only keeps the lens's center of gravity stable but also offers a major advantage in durability by blocking the entry of external dust and moisture.
According to the application, the new lens achieves focus by moving only two small groups out of a total of five lens groups. Reducing the size and weight of the focusing lens group is expected to deliver much faster and smoother autofocus (AF) speeds than the current model when paired with Canon’s latest STM (Stepping Motor). Furthermore, placing the moving groups between fixed groups provides theoretical advantages, such as suppressing distortion and improving overall image quality.
Changes in Size and Optical Coating Upgrades
Depending on the focal length, the new design blueprint includes four different optical layout examples ranging from 24mm to 35mm. A noteworthy point is the length of the lens. While the first-generation model is 62.8mm long (extending up to about 80mm at the minimum focusing distance), the 34.80mm f/1.85 design in the patent reaches approximately 100mm, suggesting it may be somewhat longer than its predecessor. However, if Canon adopts the 31.43mm version filed alongside it, they could maintain a compact size similar to the original while still keeping the internal focus mechanism.
Additionally, coating technologies on par with premium L-series lenses have been teased. The patent mentions ASC (Air Sphere Coating), which effectively suppresses flare and ghosting, as well as a fluorine coating on the front and rear lens elements to prevent smudges and contamination. The magnification ratio remains at the same 1:2 (0.5x) half-macro capability as the original, and the Image Stabilizer (IS) function will also be included.
Anticipation for a Generation Shift in the Popular Full-Frame Lens
Unveiled in September 2018 alongside Canon's first full-frame mirrorless camera, the EOS R, the RF 35mm F1.8 lens has served as a go-to "body cap lens" for countless users due to its lightweight build and outstanding versatility. Given the time that has passed since its release, the arrival of a Version 2—armed with internal focusing and improved image quality—is bound to generate immense excitement among Canon users. While a patent does not guarantee a 100% finalized commercial product, it is clear that Canon's R&D team is seriously preparing a refresh for this highly popular lens.
[Editor's Note] "This is highly welcoming news for users who were put off by the 'barrel extension' and the slight whirring AF noise—the only real drawbacks of the existing RF 35mm F1.8. If they add L-lens-class coating technology, it will firmly solidify its spot as the ultimate budget-friendly snapshot lens. However, due to the internal focus design, the lens barrel might get a bit longer, which could be a slight hit-or-miss factor for street photographers who strictly prefer ultra-compact setups."
[Tags] #Canon #RFLens #RF35mm #MirrorlessLens #PrimeLens #CanonRumors #NewPatent #InternalFocus #CameraGear