Godox announced a new mini TTL flash – the iM30 Pro for Leica cameras priced at $45:

Godox announced a new mini iT30 Pro TTL flash

Previous Godox coverage:

Godox announced new X5 TTL wireless flash trigger for Leica cameras, iT30 Pro flash for Leica coming soon

New Godox iT32 compact modular flash and X5 L wireless trigger system designed for Leica shooters

Three new Godox mini flash units released (compatible with Leica cameras)

Via NikonRumors

The post Godox announced a new mini iM30 Pro TTL flash for Leica cameras appeared first on Leica Rumors.

Insta360 officially announced the previously reported Luna Ultra camera co-engineered with Leica. Pre-orders are now open at:

• US: B&H Photo
• DE: Foto Erhardt
• Worldwide: Insta360

A Six-Year Partnership in Imaging Innovation

Insta360’s partnership with Leica spans six years and five co-developed products, combining Leica’s optical heritage and iconic color science with Insta360’s Emmy Award-winning imaging technology. With Luna Ultra, the two companies bring that collaboration into a new category, pairing professional optics with compact, AI-powered gimbal camera design.

Luna Ultra was unveiled at Leica’s Headquarters in Wetzlar, underscoring the close partnership behind Insta360’s first Leica co-engineered gimbal camera.

“This launch represents more than a new product announcement. It reflects the shared vision and long-term collaboration between Insta360 and Leica, combining optical heritage with a new generation of intelligent imaging technology.” — Marius Eschweiler, VP of Business Unit Mobile at Leica Camera AG.

Additional informtion and the technical details can be found here:

Insta360 Luna Ultra camera officially announced

The post Insta360 announced a new Luna Ultra camera co-engineered with Leica appeared first on Leica Rumors.

Literally a few minutes after I published my previous blog post, I got a notification about the official announcement of the new limited-edition 7Artisans × Seagull M 35mm f/1.7 silver lens for Leica M-mount. You can now purchase one of the 500 limited-edition lenses on the official 7artisans website. The price is $369.

You can use the discount code RUMORS for 5% off when you purchase through this link.

Additional information:

The lens is developed through a collaboration between Shenzhen-based 7Artisans and Shanghai Seagull Digital Camera Co., Ltd. (China’s oldest camera manufacturer, famous for its TLR cameras):

A black version of the lens was announced back in 2024:

7Artisans is teasing a new 35mm f/1.7 lens for Leica M-mount to be announced on June 18th

Coming soon: new limited edition 7Artisans × Seagull M 35mm f/1.7 silver lens for Leica M-mount

The post Announced and available for order: 7Artisans × Seagull M 35mm f/1.7 limited edition lens for Leica M-mount appeared first on Leica Rumors.

In a new collaboration, 7Artisans × Seagull will release a new limited edition 7Artisans × Seagull M 35mm f/1.7 silver lens for Leica M-mount:

Update – the new lens is now available:

Announced and available for order: 7Artisans × Seagull M 35mm f/1.7 limited edition lens for Leica M-mount

• Full-Frame
• Leica M-Mount
• Focal length: 35mm
• Vintage All-Metal Design
• Maximum aperture: f/1.7
• Minimum aperture: f/16
• Lens construction: 8 elements in 6 groups
• Aperture blades: 10 (for smooth bokeh)
• Focus: Manual focus, Leica M rangefinder coupled
• Minimum focus distance: 0.7 m
• Filter thread: 40.5 mm
• Dimensions: Approx. Φ57 × 29 mm (excluding mount)
• Weight: Approx. 145 g (very compact and lightweight)
• Mount: Leica M (full-frame compatible; works on film and digital M bodies, and mirrorless with adapter)
• Body: All-metal construction with anodized finish for durability, scratch resistance, and a premium tactile feel that complements Leica cameras
• Limited edition: only 500 pieces worldwide
• Each lens comes with an exclusive collector’s badge featuring the serial number.
• Price: $369 USD

The lens is developed through a collaboration between Shenzhen-based 7Artisans and Shanghai Seagull Digital Camera Co., Ltd. (China’s oldest camera manufacturer, famous for its TLR cameras). A black version of the lens was announced back in 2024:

7Artisans is teasing a new 35mm f/1.7 lens for Leica M-mount to be announced on June 18th

Brightin Star will also soon announce a new APO M 35mm f/1.7 ASPH lens for Leica M-mount:

Brightin Star to announce three new lenses for Leica M-mount: APO 35mm f/1.7 ASPH, 50mm f/2 TRI-SIGHT, and 28mm f/2.8 silver pancake

More new third-party M and L mount lenses announced at the 2026 CP+ show

The post Coming soon: new limited edition 7Artisans × Seagull M 35mm f/1.7 silver lens for Leica M-mount appeared first on Leica Rumors.

Cosina will bring back two Voigtlander ULTRON Vintage Line lenses for Leica M-mount in response to numerous requests from customers:

• Voigtlander ULTRON Vintage Line 28mm f/2 Aspherical Type II
• Voigtlander ULTRON Vintage Line 35mm f/2 Aspherical Type II

Both models were discontinued in November 2025:

Cosina to discontinue three Voigtlander VM lenses for Leica M-mount

Here is the official notice:

Notice of resale of Voigtlander ULTRON Vintage Line 28mm F2 Aspherical Type II and ULTRON Vintage Line 35mm F2 Aspherical Type II lenses.

Thank you for your continued patronage of Cosina products.

We are pleased to announce that, in response to numerous requests from our customers, we will be resuming sales of the ULTRON Vintage Line 28mm F2 Aspherical Type II and ULTRON Vintage Line 35mm F2 Aspherical Type II lenses, which were previously announced to be discontinued in November 2025. Resale will begin on July 3, 2026. We hope you will consider purchasing this product at this time. We would also appreciate any feedback or suggestions you may have regarding our products.

Previous coverage of the lenses can be found here:

New Voigtlander ULTRON Vintage Line 28mm f/2 Aspherical VM Type II lens for Leica M-mount announced

Announced: Voigtlander APO-LANTHAR 35mm f/2 Asph and Voigtlander ULTRON Vintage Line 35mm f/2 Asph Type II VM lenses for Leica M-mount

Voigtlander ULTRON Vintage Line 28mm f/2 Aspherical VM lens for Leica M-mount review

The post Cosina to bring back the Voigtlander ULTRON Vintage Line 28mm f/2 & 35mm f/2 Aspherical Type II lenses for Leica M-mount appeared first on Leica Rumors.

Pixii announced that development of its next-generation digital rangefinder camera is essentially complete. The company describes the upcoming model as a true optical rangefinder for 21st-century photographers, featuring advanced technology and patents. To scale from startup-level production to industrial volumes, Pixii is now actively seeking investors, industrial partners, and collaborations with lens makers and other camera manufacturers. This has shifted the target launch to 2027. Previously, the camera was scheduled for the summer of 2026:

The next Pixii camera is expected to be released in the summer of 2026 (+ Pixii Black Friday Sale)

At the same time, Pixii has rolled out major software updates that bring much of the next-generation experience to current Pixii Max and Pixii+ cameras. These include a completely redesigned ultra-responsive exposure system, new highlight-protection logic to better exploit sensor quality, a rebuilt app with improved Android support, and a fresh, more immersive user interface informed by community feedback.

Pixii has reduced the prices of their cameras by up to $500:

Here are the details from Pixii:

About the Future

Here is the update you were waiting for. The future gets real, it’s running in our lab. The development of our next-generation product is essentially complete.

We think it can be a transformative camera: a true optical rangefinder, for photographers of the 21st century. We’ve got amazing technology, patents, and more.

“It’s the industry, …”*

Building like a startup got us so far, delivering a new product almost every year! We’ve raised our own bar — and the expectations of the market and of our customers. This future camera only raises them further. So for several months, we’ve been looking at options in the industry. These things take time, and supply chains aren’t built to turn on a dime. We’re now working on a timeline, with a target launch in 2027 – further out than we expected, as the next logical step is to build at scale.
* with a nod to a certain 1992 campaign.

Build the Future with us

Our initial conversations across the industry have been interesting – revealing, even. We’re now selecting new partners to help us scale: investors and industrial partners with the capital to drive this transformation. We’re also starting discussions with other players in our industry – lens makers, fellow camera makers, who are expressing an interest in our technologies.

Software for a new camera

While we were inventing the Future, we never lost touch with the present. We’ve kept developing the camera software – and much of that next-generation work has been running great on the latest Pixii cameras. We have completely redefined the exposure system for ultra-fast reactions. With it comes a new Highlight Protection logic for extracting the maximum from the sensor quality. The camera becomes a totally different beast. We’ve rebuilt the app, in particular for better Android support. And, with the new user interface, you get an even more direct and immersive experience. This release benefitted particularly from the feedback of photographers in our community. More than an update, it’s a brand-new camera – it shows the extended capabilities of Pixii as a software-defined camera.

The post The next-generation Pixii digital rangefinder camera with Leica M-mount is essentially complete, the company is now looking for investors, partners, and collaborations with other camera manufacturers appeared first on Leica Rumors.

→ While memory card prices are going up, SanDisk currently has a sale at B&H.

→ Cosina officially discontinued the following lenses for Leica M-mount (currently on sale at B&H Photo):

• NOKTON Vintage Line 28mm F1.5 Aspherical Type I (Type II will continue to be sold)
• COLOR-SKOPAR 28mm F2.8 Aspherical Type I (Type II will continue to be sold)
• APO-SKOPAR 90mm F2.8

→ After a successful Kickstarter project, the new Peak Design Travel camera bags are now available for purchase.

→ Brightin Star to release a new silver MF 28mm f/2.8 lens for Leica M-mount.
→ 7Artisans to announce a new AF 135mm f/1.8 MAX lens for Leica L-mount.

→ Used compact camera prices quadruple in Japan as CCD models make a comeback.

→ From Reddit – “KEH wants me to buy back my stolen Leica”.

→ Glacier Fever | Behind the Scenes with Donal Boyd.

The post Leica digest #235 appeared first on Leica Rumors.

Here are the most popular LeicaRumors posts for May 2026:

Leica M12 camera rumors recap

Many Voigtlander lenses for Leica M-mount are now on sale

Panasonic announced a new L10 camera today, is the Leica D-Lux 9 coming next?

What’s next for Leica? (May 2026 update)

First leaked pictures of the upcoming Leica M11-P, Q3, D-Lux 8, and APO-M 50 f/2 in Metal Gray

Rumors: Leica killed the development of a new mirrorless medium format camera

Updated Leica SL3-P camera rumors

Officially announced: new Leica M11-P, D-Lux 8, Q3 cameras and APO-Summicron-M 50 lens in Metal Gray

FieldMade released new Leica stealth kits (blackout decals for Leica cameras)

Act fast: the Mandler 35mm f/2 “Seven Elements” lens is back in stock (limited quantities)

The post Top 10 most viewed LeicaRumors posts for May 2026 appeared first on Leica Rumors.

“The Workflow is Now Complete”

Aftershoot’s biggest recent news is the completion of its end-to-end post-processing workflow, announced on May 28: “The Workflow is Now Complete.”

The company has evolved from an AI culling-focused tool into a full all-in-one platform for culling (Select), AI + manual editing (Edit), retouching (Retouch), and client delivery via Aftershoot Galleries. This shift eliminates the need to switch between multiple apps (e.g., Lightroom for editing/delivery).

Use coupon code RUMORS for a 15% discount at Aftershoot.

Here are the details:

Key Elements of the May 2026 Update

• Built-in RAW Editing: New dedicated RAW editor with manual tonal adjustments, batch processing, sliders, and fine-tuning of AI edits. You can now edit RAW files directly in Aftershoot and export JPEGs or TIFFs without leaving the app. This includes self-improving AI profiles that learn from your adjustments, plus pipeline tools such as advanced masking, denoising, object removal, HSL/color grading, and more precise cropping/straightening (including aggressive, subject-focused crops).
• Aftershoot Galleries (new, highlighted with “New” on the homepage): Integrated client delivery platform with 100 GB free storage. Features include built-in proofing, face detection/filtering by person, favorites, branded galleries, and direct export from Aftershoot (no re-uploads or downloads needed). It integrates print sales via labs like WHCC, Bay Photo, and Atkins Pro Labs. The goal is a better client experience than basic shares or Google Drive links.
• Culling (Select) Enhancements: Smarter duplicate/variation detection (distinguishes intentional variations from true duplicates, ~20% tighter culls), improved blur/closed-eye detection, key subjects prioritization, binary selection states, and “cull to target” (specify how many keepers you want). UI now clearly distinguishes AI Automated Cull vs. AI Assisted Cull.
• Editing & Retouching Improvements: More consistent white balance/exposure across albums, better before/after previews, enhanced acne/blemish/hair/glare detection with texture preservation, Background Replacement (beta with custom uploads), Cloth Dewrinkle, object removal, and subtle body reshaping. Retouching works on RAW files.

The update positions Aftershoot as a privacy-focused (local processing), non-destructive workflow tool that learns your style via training on your edits/presets or imported Lightroom profiles. It includes 30+ pro styles in the marketplace.

2026 Roadmap

Aftershoot also published its 2026 Roadmap (full AI Retouching rollout with one-click skin/hair/glare tools, advanced culling, smarter editing, and expanded creator styles/marketplace):

• Further AI refinements in culling (smarter technical detection, key subjects, cull-to-target).
• Enhanced editing (better profile accuracy, advanced masking/cropping, more marketplace styles with previews).
• Expanded RAW Editing (histogram, tone curves, deeper masking, etc.).
• More AI Retouching tools (one-click object removal, body reshaping, background removal, natural skin work).
• Aftershoot Gallery delivery enhancements (already live).
• Tethered shooting (sneak peek): Planned rock-solid tethering with fast/stable connections, broad camera support, auto-import/organization, on-set proofing, and instant gallery pushes. Not yet released.

The company claims users save significant time (e.g., 60+ days per year in repetitive work across their user base) while maintaining creative control and style consistency.

Pricing Updates

Aftershoot introduced more flexible modular pricing aligned with the complete workflow:

• Select (Culling): ~$10/mo (annual) or $15/mo.
• Edit: ~$30/mo (annual) or $35/mo.
• Retouch: ~$20/mo (annual) or $25/mo.
• Aftershoot Complete (Select + Edit + Retouch): ~$45/mo (annual, discounted) or $55/mo.
• Galleries: Currently free with 100 GB storage (future pricing TBD).

“AI that works for you, not against you”

Aftershoot recently issued a reassuring manifesto titled “AI That Works For You, Not Against You.” It directly addresses photographers’ fears that AI will replace them, emphasizing that the camera will always need a human behind it for intuition, light reading, and client connection. Aftershoot positions its AI as a supportive tool built by photographers for photographers – designed only to handle tedious tasks like culling and editing so you can spend more time shooting.

Aftershoot outlines three firm commitments: they will never create tools to replace you, they will always ask explicit permission before using your images (with easy opt-out or deletion), and they will build the product together with their Founders Community of photographers who help shape the roadmap. A personal note from founder Harshit explains how the company started in 2019 with a simple request to reduce culling time and has stayed true to its mission of returning time to creators ever since.

Via PhotoRumors.com

The post Aftershoot: “The Workflow is Now Complete” and “AI that works for you, not against you” appeared first on Leica Rumors.

Skylum has launched a new Luminar Summer Sale with discounts of up to 70%. The campaign runs June 5-28, 2026. Here are the details:

For new users:

• Desktop Perpetual – $119 / €99 + free Neo video course
• Cross-device Perpetual – $149 / €129 + free Neo video course
• MAX Perpetual – $164.99 / €134.99 + free Neo video course + free gift

For existing users:

• Cross-device Perpetual – $99.99 / €89.99 + free Neo video course
• MAX Perpetual – $109.99 / €99.99 + free Neo video course + free gift

Luminar Neo is an AI-powered photo editor that makes it easy to achieve professional results with simple and fast edits (available on both desktop and mobile). All plans are perpetual (one-time purchase) licenses with no subscriptions required. The Max plan unlocks the complete experience: desktop + mobile apps, plus access to the creative assets library (skies, overlays, LUTs, presets, and more to fuel your creativity). Here are the main benefits:

• AI-powered editing made simple
• Professional results with minimal effort
• Works across desktop + mobile
• Strong value with lifetime licenses

Via PhotoRumors

The post Skylum Luminar Neo Summer Sale: up to 70% off appeared first on Leica Rumors.

The previously reported Light Lens Lab 75mm f/1.5 “Z21” is now officially announced and available for pre-order on this page.

Update – you can use coupon code RUMORS for 5% off if you purchase from this link:

The 75mm f/1.5 “Z21” is the latest lens in the Light Lens Lab “Z21” series, following the release and continued development of the 50mm f/1.5 “Z21”. This lens represents an important milestone for Light Lens Lab. Unlike many of the previous projects, the 75mm f/1.5 “Z21” is not a reproduction or homage to any existing 75mm optical formula. It is an independently researched and developed Light Lens Lab optical design, created through our continued study of the “Z21” rendering signature. Light Lens Lab has made several improvements to the 75mm f/1.5 “Z21”, including improved corner sharpness, stronger edge-to-edge performance, and enhanced sensor coverage.

Light Lens Lab 75mm f/1.5 Z21 lens for Leica M-mount key specifications and additional informtion:

• Focal Length: 75mm
• Aperture Range: f/1.5 – f/22
• Optical Design: 6 elements in 4 groups
• Design Frame Coverage: 135 Full Frame, 24mm × 36mm
• Focus Range: 1m to ∞
• Diaphragm: Preset, full-increment lock settings
• Aperture Blades: 10
• Mount: Leica M-Mount quick-change bayonet
• Filter Thread: E55
• Lens Hood: E55 screw-on hood
• Dimensions: Approx. 71mm (L) × 63.5mm (D)
• Weight: Approx. 454g, excluding accessories
• Build & Manufacturing
• Aluminum alloy construction
• Lanthanide-infused optical element, similar to the 50mm f/1.5 “Z21.”
• Mechanical and optical components designed in-house
• Finish: Matte Black Paint
• MSRP: USD $999 (Matte Black Paint)
• Delivery Start Date: Beginning June 30, 2026
• MTF charts and dimensions:

Sample photos:

Additional pictures of the Light Lens Lab 75mm f/1.5 Z21 lens for Leica M-mount :

Previous coverage of LLL lenses can be found here:

A new Light Lens Lab 75mm f/1.5 Z21 lens for Leica M-mount will be announced on June 5th

Light Lens Lab 50mm f/1.5 “Z21” lens for Leica M-mount now available

Exclusive first-ever interview with Mr. Zhou – founder of Light Lens Lab: “Resurrecting the $50,000 Leica lens”

The post Light Lens Lab 75mm f/1.5 Z21 lens for Leica M-mount officially announced, available for pre-order appeared first on Leica Rumors.

In partnership with US company Ollin, Leica announced a new snapshot adapter specially designed for the Leica Geovid binoculars:

• Fast and secure connection of smartphone and Leica Geovid Pro and Geovid R models
• Capture photos and videos directly through the optics.
• The clamp mechanism allows for easy attachment and quick removal.
• Holds Snapcase to Eyepiece.

Alongside the new adapter, Leica Sports Optics also released a new Leica Geovid Pro 8×42 and 10×42 in olive green:

Leica already had a collaboration with Ollin for digiscoping solutions:

Additiona informtion:

Photography Through Leica Binoculars, Made Simple

Wetzlar, 01 June 2026 – In partnership with US company Ollin, Leica Sports Optics presents another snapshot adapter specially designed for the Leica Geovid binocular. This new accessory allows you to capture your sightings quickly and easily with your smartphone. The cleverly designed adapter system holds almost any smartphone securely in place with magnetic brackets.

The post You can now attach a smartphone to Leica Geovid binoculars with this new Ollin snapshot adapter appeared first on Leica Rumors.

Sources indicate that corporate-owned Leica Stores (company-operated flagships, as opposed to independent authorized dealers) are now directing their third-party accessory offerings toward a curated list of premium brands only. The approved brands reportedly include:

• Oberwerth: German handmade leather bags with frequent Leica Society International collaboration (previous coverage | B&H product listings).
• Rock n Roll: European handmade leather straps and bags, with LSI collaborations and official Leica-branded or exclusive models (previous coverage).
• Billingham: British classic canvas and FibreNyte bags, including Leica-specific models (previous coverage | B&H product listings).
• Artisan & Artist: Japanese canvas and hybrid bags, with a history of Leica editions (previous coverage | B&H product listings).
• Wotancraft: Taiwanese premium bags and pouches with multiple Leica collaborations (previous coverage)
• Cooph: Austrian brand known for Leica co-branded rope and paracord straps (previous coverage | B&H product listings).
• B+W: premium German filters by Schneider Kreuznach, frequently paired with Leica systems (previous coverage | B&H product listings).
• Gitzo: professional tripods fitting the high-end ecosystem (previous coverage | B&H product listings).

Leica Camera AG has not issued a public press release or official statement confirming this new policy, so this remains just another rumor.

Previous coverage of various Leica accessories can be found here:

The latest accessories for Leica cameras from Owlkrown

Squarehood released several new lens hoods for M-mount lenses

FieldMade released new Leica stealth kits (blackout decals for Leica cameras)

Gura Gear camera bags designed for Leica systems

Red anodized aluminum body caps for L-mount cameras

The post Rumors: corporate-owned Leica stores can carry third-party accessories only from those eight brands appeared first on Leica Rumors.

 



Owlkrown introduced several new Leica accessories:

• Owlkrown PC Sync Port Plugs for analog Leica cameras: machined from a solid rod of brass or aluminum.
• Owlkrown Slacker Outback color leather camera strap: crafted by hand, finished with beveled edges and a smooth, hand-buffed polish (with use, a natural patina develops, enhancing its character over time).
• Owlkrown Leica Ultra Kit for M10 & M11: bundle & save $30.
• Owlkrown FlexCase for Leica M11 & M-EV1: Full-grain leather sourced from a tannery in Tuscany, Italy. Selected for texture, consistency, and tanning quality. No PVC coating, no synthetic material.
• Owlkrown M.O.A.S Kit Mother of all Straps: bundle & save $30.
• Owlkrown M.O.A.K. Mother of All Kits for Leica M11 & M EV1: bundle & save $70.
• Owlkrown padded straps: built from full-grain leather and flexible rope to solid hardware and clean attachment options. The padding adds support where the strap rests on the neck or shoulder, helping spread the weight without making the setup feel bulky.
• Owlkrown TrailFlex and TrailFlex SL: featuring a proprietary built-in leather triglide buckle that ensures ease of adjustability while locking securely in place when worn. This design was created specifically to combat the scratching issues some camera straps have due to the use of metal or hard plastic in their construction.

Previous coverage of Owlkrown products can be found here:

The post The latest accessories for Leica cameras from Owlkrown appeared first on Leica Rumors.

Leica announced a new Cine Compact 1 projector – here are the key specs:

• Positioning: Leica’s more affordable, portable entry in the Cine projectors lineup for easy plug-and-play home entertainment. Smaller, lighter, and cheaper than the larger Cine 1 model and Cine Play 1 (see previous coverage), while keeping premium Leica optics and ease of use.
• Brightness: Up to 1,700 lumens via Triple RGB laser.
• Resolution & Size: 4K (0.47″ DMD pixel-shifting) up to 220 inches.
• Lens & Processing: Leica Summicron zoom lens with aspherical elements + Leica Image Optimization (LIO); Dolby Vision support.
• Flexibility: 360° rotation system + auto zoom/autofocus/keystone/screen framing – projects on walls, ceilings, or any surface without a fixed screen.
• Design: Bauhaus-style aluminum housing with glass front; includes eco-friendly recyclable transport case. Optional stand and tripod mount available.
• Smart Features: VIDAA OS with built-in Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, etc.; Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.4, AirPlay, HomeKit, HDMI, USB.
• Audio: Built-in spatial sound with Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, and DTS Virtual:X; expandable via Bluetooth/HDMI.
• Pricing & Availability: €1,645 / $1,995; on sale from June 18, 2026 – for availability, check our sponsors:

Additional information:

The post Leica announced a new Cine Compact 1 projector appeared first on Leica Rumors.

Bloomberg reports that HSG (HongShan Capital Group, formerly Sequoia Capital China) has emerged as the leading bidder in advanced discussions to acquire Blackstone’s approximately 45% stake in Leica Camera AG.

According to people familiar with the matter, HSG may also seek to purchase the remaining ~55% held by the Kaufmann family (via ACM Projektentwicklung), potentially gaining full control of the company. The discussions value Leica at around €1 billion.

Blackstone originally acquired its stake in 2011 for roughly €130 million to support Leica’s international growth. If HSG completes a full acquisition, sources indicate the firm could explore a potential public listing (IPO) of Leica.

The talks are ongoing, and there is no guarantee a deal will be reached. No official comments have been made by any of the parties involved.

Here is the recap:

• HSG has emerged as the leading bidder for a stake in Leica Camera AG, and is in talks to buy Blackstone Inc.’s 45% stake in the business.
• The firm may also purchase Austrian billionaire Andreas Kaufmann’s remaining 55% stake if he decides to sell, and may ultimately pursue an IPO listing for Leica.
• Considerations are ongoing, with any announcement potentially weeks away, and representatives for HSG and Blackstone have declined to comment.
• Leica could be valued at about €1 billion ($1.2 billion)

Rumors about Blackstone selling Leica have been floating around for a while:

Report: Blackstone could sell control of Leica Camera in €1 billion deal

Via Bloomberg

The post Chinese HSG reportedly in advanced talks to acquire Blackstone’s and potentially Kaufmann’s stakes in Leica Camera appeared first on Leica Rumors.

The Leica SL3-P camera is rumored to be announced at the end of June (around June 22-25th).

The rumored/expected Leica SL3-P camera specifications can be found here:

Updated Leica SL3-P camera rumors

The post The rumored Leica SL3-P camera will be announced at the end of June appeared first on Leica Rumors.

As previously reported, Light Lens Lab will continue developing the “Z21” series M-mount lenses with additional focal lengths, retaining the same rendering and characteristics as the current Light Lens Lab 50mm f/1.5 Z21.

On June 5th, 2026, Light Lens Lab will announce a new 75mm f/1.5 Z21 lens for Leica M-mount, further expanding the distinctive “Z21” series (a modern homage to the rare 1950s/60s Angénieux S21) to a 75mm focal length.

The Z21 line uses high-refractive-index, lanthanide-infused glass to recreate vintage character while improving contrast and usability. Expect a 10-blade (or similar) diaphragm for smooth bokeh, aluminum construction for lightweight (~300-350g), a minimum focus distance of ~0.7m, full-frame coverage, vintage-inspired with classic engraved markings, yet usable on modern digital Leica cameras.

Check the official Light Lens Lab for updates.

Previous coverage of Light Lens Lab lenses can be found here:

Light Lens Lab announced a new 50mm f/1.9 “Rigid-ZS6” (Super Six) lens for Leica M-mount (coupon code included)

Now available for pre-order: Light Lens Lab 75mm f/2 “SP-II” lens for Leica M-mount

Light Lens Lab 50mm f/1.5 “Z21” lens for Leica M-mount now available

Additional information on the upcoming Light Lens Lab 50mm f/1.5 Z21 lens for Leica M-mount

Light Lens Lab 35mm f/1.4 double aspherical AA 11873 lens for Leica M-mount review

Exclusive first-ever interview with Mr. Zhou – founder of Light Lens Lab: “Resurrecting the $50,000 Leica lens”

The post A new Light Lens Lab 75mm f/1.5 Z21 lens for Leica M-mount will be announced on June 5th appeared first on Leica Rumors.

→ Meike announced a new AF 85mm f/1.4 Ⅱ MIX full-frame lens for L-mount available in three different colors (additional information).

→ The Mandler 35mm f/2 “Seven Elements” lens for Leica M/LTM mount is still in stock.

 
→ Some Sandsik and Lexar memory cards are on sale (see full list).

→ There is a new Leica-focused project/website called Red Dot Field Guide – a growing resource covering Leica cameras, used prices, release history, and related editorial features.

→ Upcoming destination workshops from Leica Store Miami.

→ New: AKuser BE thumb rests for Leica M11/M10 cameras available in three different variations: silver damascus steel stainless, titanium frost gray, and titanium frost silver.

→ Xiaomi and Leica Camera AG announced a new Xiaomi 17T series of smartphones (in the US, Xiaomi phones are sold on Amazon). Leica views photography as the capture of real moments, making generative AI incompatible with its heritage-driven M-series cameras, but the company believes that generative AI and computational features make perfect sense for smartphones like the new Xiaomi 17T Pro.

→ In some countries, Leica is applying a massive surcharge to service “out-of-region cameras”.

→ How Mark Mann photographs icons.

The post Leica digest #234 appeared first on Leica Rumors.

The extremely popular Mandler 35mm f/2 “Seven Elements” lens for M/LTM mount is now back in stock in limited quantities. The last few batches sold in a day or less, so act fast if you want one.

The Mandler 35mm f/2 is a complete reproduction of the original Leica Summicron 35mm f/2 seven-element optical lens formula. The name “Mandler” is a tribute to Walter Mandler, who designed many legendary Leica lenses.

Additional information on the Mandler 35mm f/2 “Seven Elements” lens for M/LTM mount:

A Contemporary Interpretation of Classic Optics

Inspired by the classic optical structure, the Mandler 35mm f/2 combines contemporary precision manufacturing to create an optical product that blends traditional aesthetics with modern performance. It delivers high-level performance in color accuracy, flare control, and overall optical consistency, reflecting the reliability of its classic optical design and the advancement of modern optical manufacturing technology. The launch of this lens aims to break the traditional notion that high quality must come with a high price, offering photographers a choice that balances optical excellence with affordability.

Core Optical Characteristics

• Structure: Classic double Gaussian design (7 elements in 5 groups), featuring a purple-gold coating for flare resistance and rich color rendition.
• F2 Performance: Extremely sharp at the center, accompanied by dreamy swirling bokeh and vignetting with a sense of depth.
• Image Quality Progression: At F4, vignetting diminishes and image quality improves; at F8, sharpness is balanced across the entire frame, making it suitable for various types of creative work.

Lens specifications:

• Focal length: 35mm
• Maximum aperture: F2
• Minimum aperture: F16
• Mount: Leica M
• Lens structure: 5 groups, 7 elements
• Minimum focusing distance: 0.7m
• Viewing angle (diagonal/horizontal/vertical): 64°
• Focus mode: Manual focus (MF)
• Aperture blades: 10
• Filter size: 39mm
• Front diameter: Ø34mm
• Lens size: 53mm x 34.5mm
• Lens weight: about 139g
• Color options: Classic Black/Platinum Silver
• Material: Aluminum alloy
• Accessories included: 12504 metal round lens hood, 12526 plastic square lens hood, UV protection lens, metal lens cap, lens storage bucket

Field Curvature: Center Sharpness and Corner Control

The field curvature performance of the Mandler 35mm f/2 is commendable. At F2.0 wide open, the central area maintains excellent sharpness, while the corners exhibit a smooth progressive falloff. By F5.6, the field curvature becomes more uniform, with a significant improvement in corner sharpness. This sophisticated optical design offers both the artistic shallow depth-of-field expression at F2.0 and ensures detailed full-depth-of-field recording when stopped down. Overall, the optical performance of the Mandler 35mm f/2 meets professional standards.

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