Perhaps next year. Perhaps never. Canon has published two successive patents for a new 100-400mm lens, and they have not updated that one (yet). Given the recent track record, even if they announce a 35mm f/1.4L II tomorrow, we likely will not see it actually available for several months after the announcement. Here's a summery of recent releases:
So, if you're interested in the 35L, there's really no point in waiting, unless you're not really all that interested...
- EF 8-15mm f/4L Fisheye, announced 8/2010, available 7/2011. Delay = 11 months.
- EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II and EF 400mm f/2.8L IS II, announced 8/2010, available 8/2011. Delay = 12 months.
- EF 500mm f/4L IS II and EF 600mm f/4L IS II, announced 8/2010, available...who knows (Canon says, "We will announce a concrete release date when it becomes clear." Delay = 16 months so far and no end in sight.
The current version is an excellent lens. It could use weather sealing, and perhaps a little more corner sharpness wide open, both of which will likely be addressed if an updated version is released. But honestly, I think the one I have is just great.





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