Canon Unveils RF-S 7.8mm f/4 STM Dual Lens for VR and 3D Content Creators

Canon has introduced its latest offering, the RF-S 7.8mm f/4 STM Dual lens, designed specifically for content creators focused on virtual reality (VR) and 3D production. The new lens, compatible with the Canon EOS R7, provides an immersive 3D viewing experience and aims to simplify VR and spatial content production.

Previewed at Apple’s 2024 Worldwide Developers Conference, the RF-S 7.8mm f/4 STM Dual lens is Canon’s attempt to broaden access to 3D content creation by providing high-quality imaging in a streamlined, user-friendly setup. The lens features a 7.8mm focal length with a 60-degree field of view, offering a unique perspective for spatial video creators.

Key Features

The RF-S 7.8mm f/4 STM Dual lens offers straightforward workflow integration for creators at all levels. When paired with Canon's software, such as the EOS VR Plug-in for Adobe Premiere Pro and EOS VR Utility, users can seamlessly convert captured footage into 3D 180° VR, 3D Theater, or spatial video formats. These formats are compatible with popular VR platforms like Apple Vision Pro and Meta Quest 3, providing creators with a streamlined pathway from capture to immersive playback.

Hiroto Kato, vice president of Imaging Products & Solutions at Canon U.S.A., emphasized the lens’s role in enhancing 3D communication: “With the RF-S 7.8mm f/4 STM Dual lens, Canon is not only providing a new visual tool but also enhancing the way creators communicate using emerging VR, spatial and 3D technologies.”

Specifications

• Focal Length: 7.8mm
• Maximum Aperture: f/4
• Minimum Aperture: f/16 (adjustable in 1/3 or 1/2 stops)
• Lens Mount Type: Canon RF Mount (Plastic Mount)
• Interpupillary Distance: 11.8 mm (distance between left and right lens centers)
• Minimum Focusing Distance: 0.49 ft. (5.9 in.) / 0.15 m
• Maximum Magnification: 0.07x
• Angle of View (Diagonal): 63°
• Lens Construction (each lens): 9 elements in 7 groups
• Special Elements: Two UD lens elements
• Lens Coating: Super Spectra Coating
• Filter Size: 58 mm screw-type filter
• Focusing System: Gear-type STM focusing
• Dual Pixel CMOS AF Coverage: Horizontal: approx. 30%, Vertical: approx. 46%
• Focus Guide Compatibility: Supported in both photo and video modes, adjustable with the L/R adjustment switch
• Optical Image Stabilization: Not provided
• Compatibility with In-body IS (EOS R7): Not supported
• Dimensions: 2.7" diameter x 1.6" length (69.2 mm x 41.5 mm)
• Weight: Approx. 4.6 oz. (131 g)
• Accessories: E-58II Lens Cap (included), Canon Lens Dust Cap RF (included), Canon Lens Case LP1014 (sold separately)

Availability and Pricing

The Canon RF-S7.8mm f/4 STM Dual lens is scheduled to be available in November 2024 at an estimated retail price of $449.99.

This release expands Canon’s EOS VR system, positioning the company as a player in the evolving VR and 3D content space. For creators looking to experiment with spatial content, this lens offers an accessible entry point with support for major VR platforms and simplified processing options.