We've been keeping tabs on (mostly) Canon rumours for several years and receive all kinds of stuff - some more believable than others.
Use your common sense when reading these pages, and remember that it's here for entertainment as much as anything else. We have far more 'serious' content on the site...

Rumours for specific cameras/lenses are on their own pages --->

Info. - If you use LinkedIn and are interested in any aspects of Digital Black and White photography. I've set up a LinkedIn group called:
Digital Black and White

Latest Info

We're testing the new 'Envolve' chat system (it's the little box in the bottom right hand corner of the page - please try it if you wish and let us know what you think?

Rumour Archives - Jan 2009 to Sep 2009 | Pre 2009

2010 September

1st Lots of video related stuff at the Canon expo [PB]

August

Thank you to everyone who has purchased items, however small, since anything you order via these links helps us run our site
Amazon UK link / Amazon France / Amazon Germany
Amazon USA link / Amazon Canada link

31st Following on from the "120MP, because we can" announcement I see that Canon have announced the world's largest CMOS sensor measuring 202 x 205mm.
That's around 850MP if at the density of the 1Ds3 sensor, ~1.8GP at 7D pixel density and 8GP at the density of the recent 120MP chip...
"TOKYO, August 31, 2010—Canon Inc. announced today that it has successfully developed the world's largest*1 CMOS image sensor, with a chip size measuring 202 x 205 mm. Because its expanded size enables greater light-gathering capability, the sensor is capable of capturing images in one one-hundredth the amount of light required by a professional-model digital SLR camera.
At 202 x 205 mm, the newly developed CMOS sensor is among the largest chips that can be produced from a 12-inch (300 mm) wafer, and is approximately 40 times the size of Canon's largest commercial CMOS sensor.*2
In the past, enlarging the size of the sensor resulted in an increase in the amount of time required between the receiving and transmission of data signals, which posed a challenge to achieving high-speed readout. Canon, however, solved this problem through an innovative circuit design, making possible the realization of a massive video-compatible CMOS sensor. Additionally, by ensuring the cleanest of cleanroom environments during the production process, the sensor minimizes image imperfections and dust.
Because the increased size of the new CMOS sensor allows more light to be gathered, it enables shooting in low-light environments. The sensor makes possible the image capture in one one-hundredth the amount of light required by a 35 mm full-frame CMOS sensor, facilitating the shooting of 60 frame-per-second video with a mere 0.3 lux of illumination.*3
Potential applications for the new high-sensitivity CMOS sensor include the video recording of stars in the night sky and nocturnal animal behavior.
Through the further development of distinctive CMOS image sensors, Canon will break new ground in the world of new image expression, in the area of still images as well as video.
*1 As of August 27, 2010. Based on a Canon study.
*2 The approximately 21.1 megapixel 35 mm full-frame CMOS sensor employed in the company's EOS-1Ds Mark III and EOS 5D Mark II digital SLR cameras.
*3 Approximately one-half the brightness of a moonlit night."
26th As well as the 60D and lenses, Canon have also updated the EOS E1 video plug-in.
EOS MOVIE plug-in update for Final Cut Pro
- London, UK, 26th August 2010 – Canon today announces a new plug-in further enhancing quicker and easier editing of EOS MOVIE footage in Apple’s software suite, Final Cut Pro. The update will be available to download for free from mid-September.
- EOS Movie Plug-in-E1 for Final Cut Pro version 1.1 will add to the recently released Plug-in-E1 by providing support for the Canon EOS 60D, the latest addition to the EOS range. The plug-in will allow users to view metadata and EXIF data for movie files. It will also provide support for multi-core processing, allowing even faster conversations with the latest generation of Macs.
- The original plug-in was designed to convert EOS MOVIE footage from Canon’s EOS 5D Mark II, EOS 7D and EOS-1D Mark IV Digital SLR cameras to Apple’s high-quality ProRes 422 codec at approximately twice the speed of Apple’s standard conversion. Users will still have the benefits of being able to add timecode and reel names to footage quickly and easily.
24th People are getting NDAs to sign for the Canon press conference on Thursday - expect a few more concrete 'hints' to surface before long.
Looking for more megapixels? Canon have announced an APS-H 120MP CMOS sensor that can shoot at 9.5fps and record Full HD movies. Note that this would come to ~202MP at in a 1Ds mark xx and around 80MP in a 7D mark xx.
- TOKYO, August 24, 2010—Canon Inc. announced today that it has successfully developed an APS-H-size*1 CMOS image sensor that delivers an image resolution of approximately 120 megapixels (13,280 x 9,184 pixels), the world’s highest level*2 of resolution for its size.
- Compared with Canon’s highest-resolution commercial CMOS sensor of the same size, comprising approximately 16.1 million pixels, the newly developed sensor features a pixel count that, at approximately 120 million pixels, is nearly 7.5 times larger and offers a 2.4-fold improvement in resolution.*3
- With CMOS sensors, while high-speed readout for high pixel counts is achieved through parallel processing, an increase in parallel-processing signal counts can result in such problems as signal delays and minor deviations in timing. By modifying the method employed to control the readout circuit timing, Canon successfully achieved the high-speed readout of sensor signals. As a result, the new CMOS sensor makes possible a maximum output speed of approximately 9.5 frames per second, supporting the continuous shooting of ultra-high-resolution images.
- Canon’s newly developed CMOS sensor also incorporates a Full HD (1,920 x 1,080 pixels) video output capability. The sensor can output Full HD video from any approximately one-sixtieth-sized section of its total surface area.
- Images captured with Canon’s newly developed approximately 120-megapixel CMOS image sensor, even when cropped or digitally magnified, maintain higher levels of definition and clarity than ever before. Additionally, the sensor enables image confirmation across a wide image area, with Full HD video viewing of a select portion of the overall frame.
- Through the further development of CMOS image sensors, Canon will break new ground in the world of image expression, targeting new still images that largely surpass those made possible with film, and video movies that capitalize on the unique merits of SLR cameras, namely their high mobility and the expressive power offered through interchangeable lenses.
- *1 The imaging area of the newly developed sensor measures approx. 29.2 x 20.2 mm.
  *2 As of August 20, 2010. Based on a Canon study.
  *3 Canon’s highest-resolution commercial CMOS sensor, employed in the company’s EOS-1Ds Mark III and EOS 5D Mark II digital SLR cameras, is equivalent to the full-frame size of the 35 mm film format and incorporates approximately 21.1 million pixels. In 2007, the company successfully developed an APS-H-size sensor with approximately 50 million pixels. Press info
The new continuous AF and 10FPS of the Sony A55 are reviewed [DPR]. Add in the NEX compacts and you can see Sony stretching areas of the market that both Canon and Nikon are not in. Historically this is not a situation that persists, so what's coming? Not much more real news yet - see APS-C compact page.
23rd A picture of the new Sony pellicle mirror DSLR (A33) at SAR
19th Assorted point 'n' click cameras appear from Canon [S95, IXUS1000, sx130 IS] and the Nikon D3100 [DPR]. Looks like the 60D gets an event next week (26th)
18th We're still getting suggestions for Canon announcements tomorrow, although I've also noticed that people seem to be expecting stuff from Nikon too [1k1] or not [NR]
17th We're sent (thanks) a Canon application for a patent for a wireless lan controlled flash system [USPTO or better at FPO]
A more detailed analysis at [PB]
-
It seems as if any date will do... I've seen several references to announcements today, and now, one for the 19th has appeared [DR]
Updated - 7DSV was announced
-
Looking at announcement dates I see that someone at DPR had too much spare time and has published a list of Canon DSLR launch dates.
-
1D – 25 Sept. 2001
1D Mark II – 29 Jan. 2004
1D Mark IIN – 22 Aug. 2005
1D Mark III - 21 Feb. 2007
1D Mark IV – 20 Oct. 2009
-
1Ds – 24 Sept. 2002
1Ds Mark II – 21 Sept. 2004
1Ds Mark III - 20 Aug. 2007
1Ds Mark IV - ???
-
5D – 22 Aug. 2005
5D Mark II - 17 Sept. 2008
5D Mark III - ???
-
D30 – 17 May 2000
D60 – 22 Feb. 2002
10D – Feb. 27 2003
20D – 19 Aug. 2004
20Da – 1 June 2005
30D – 21 Feb. 2006
40D - 20 Aug. 2007
50D - 26 Aug. 2008
60D - ???
-
7D - 1 Sept. 2009
-
300D / Rebel - 20 Aug. 2003
350D / Rebel XT – 17 Feb. 2005
400D / Rebel XTi – 24 Aug. 2006
450D / Rebel XSi - 23 Jan. 2008
1000D / Rebel XS - 8 July 2008
500D / Rebel T1i - 25 March 2009
550D / Rebel T2i – 8 Feb. 2010
16th How about cameras tomorrow? There's a pitch for Canon announcements (DSLR, lenses, compacts) on the 17th [PB]
In an interesting version of 'reading the tea leaves', a dip in the number of product reviews at certain sites is taken to be indicative of forthcoming announcements... [1k1]
Meanwhile in Australia, there is a Canon announcement - two new Pixma printers.
13th Announcements season is nearly upon us - new SLRs from Sony on the 24th [SAR] including pellicle (semi-transparent) mirrors for phase detect AF during video.
The only Canon camera we're hearing of being withdrawn from lists is the 50D and kits.
This also in... (thanks)
- Canon has announced plans for an expanded CPS area and a new programme of presentations for the professional week of the Visa pour l'Image 2010 international festival of photojournalism in Perpignan, France, from 30 August until 5 September 2010.
- The 'Canon Space' will showcase the latest range of Canon professional photographic products - EOS DSLRs, EF lenses, accessories, and G-series compacts - plus the XF305 and XF300 pro HD camcorders. At the expanded Canon Professional Services (CPS) area EOS DSLR bodies, lenses and accessories can be borrowed, and accredited Canon photographers can have equipment checked and cleaned.
8th Three DSLRs we're told, although I'm minded to think that a big crystal ball isn't needed to notice that the 1000D, 50D and 1Ds3 are the oldest current models...
Have a look at this interesting collection [FL] of assorted Pentax info for some assorted FF thoughts.
3rd At CR there's a possible 60D event listed next week, although, if you prefer, there is the 25th [Potn]
More sensor info at SAR
2nd In a counter to the 'no more Sony FF' threads, there is a more optimistic line at SAR
- "It will be a High-resolution sensor with fast 10fps and FullHD video and very good High-ISO image quality. The specs are not definitive. We were told that they have two sensor options: a new ExmorHD 24MPX and a new ExmorHD 30+MPX sensor. The design of the camera is based on the next pellix camera (which we will see in late August)."

July

27th I note rumours of Sony potentially stopping FF sensor development [ TH | MR ] I'd certainly agree with TH that as camera users, we derive no benefits from a reduction in competition.
20th No news of announcements yet - even the wacky 60D specs have dried up...
Elsewhere, lots of Sony hints at SAR although no new FF DSLRs are expected in the upcoming announcements.
For Pentax, we've had several people asking about the 645D, which will appear outside of Japan in small numbers [PxR] - it's been a long while since we've had any comments about Canon looking at MF.
Our best info is that it was an on/off/on engineering project that has been firmly in the 'off' setting of late (unless you know better? ;-)
And Canon promises smaller cameras
16th 802.11n wireless on its way to Canon wireless adapters? [UG]
9th Talk of a Canon announcement next week at PR - no indication of what.
6th Canon concept for the 2020 model at GM - presumably available in black too?
The following forum comments appear in a DPreview forum in late 2019

#1 Have you seen this?
#2 What do they know
#3 FAKE!
#4 Could you elaborate on xxx
#5 Jeez, cant you people just get out more
#6 You don't have to read it
#7 Those that really know can't say
#8 7D Mk6 AF issues
#9 Is that all?
#10 I'm switching to Nikon

#11 It probably back / front focuses
#12 What? no built in pro AF
#13 Why not 1.3 crop all cameras should be 1.3 crop
#14 Why not full frame? - Canon are ripping is off again
#15 Its going to be so noisy I'll have to keep my 20D
#16 The more MP are a waste, the lenses can't resolve that
#17 It's all lies from from crazy fan boy
#18 What, no built in IS:
#19 I'll have to be the first to own one
#20 Why would anyone want one

4th A Canon patent to fit phase detect AF onto the sensor No.12/664,529 [PB]
- BTW Happy 4th to US visitors :-)

June

25th A new camera for July? Is this the '60D'? [CR]. New Flash to arrive with 1Ds4?
Some interesting comparisons of images scaled to the same size from a wide variety of cameras at different ISO settings at PI (scroll down to clickable images).
22nd More excellent forum fodder - the latest dxomark.com now includes a range of lenses.
21st Almost as popular on forums as 'why not make sensors circular' Nikon have a patent for a curved sensor [NR].
Whilst Sony have more new ways of arranging pixels [SAR]
20th Whilst we were told of August announcements a while ago, there are reports of a mid July announcement too [CR]
- 1000D replacement looks most overdue, followed by 50D - i.e the crop cameras with no video
18th Not quite cameras, but Canon have lent me an iPF6300 large format printer to review. If anyone has any specific questions, please just let me know - I should have a review written in a few weeks to complement last year's iPF6100 review.
17th 3D/5D3/'almost anything FF' rumours all over the place - if there's a grain of truth in them, it seems well hidden at the moment ;-)
Time for a 2000D though? - the 1000D is officially marked as 'discontinued' in HK
11th A Canon patent for an in-camera version of 'HDR' is mentioned at PB.
- Aargh, just what we need ... more tawdry HDR landscapes. As you might guess, I'm not a fan of much of the currently fashionable HDR 'look' :-). That said, potential improvements in DR are to be welcomed.
4th At CR there is a mention of a new 'hybrid' camera for September - whether this is a DSLR, or a video camera that takes EF mount lenses, or something else altogether is not clear...
After the success of the 5D2 for video, it's a fair bet that somewhere in Canon, people are looking at how to do even better in this market area.
Sony are supposedly [SAR] going to bring out two cameras with a Pellicle mirror in September.
I note the assertion that there are no pellicle mirrored DSLRs - not quite, I'd almost call my [2001] Olympus E20 a DSLR :-)

May

26th In the UK I'm told there is a minor flood of refurb EOS cameras appearing on eBay - 5D2s and loads of 450Ds. Just clearance, or making space? I've been wondering when and what was to replace the 50D and ageing 1000D for a while...
22nd If you were wondering about some of the impact of DSLR video, there is a very good interview with Phil Bloom at NRK (interview is in English)
20th Yes, rumours have gone very quiet of late - no signs of press events or announcements either. IPEX was a huge show - but mostly aimed at printers too large to fit in my house. Canon had a large stand, where I got to look at the new large format printers, but no-one was showing printers of less than 24" width... [some pictures]. I also had a chance to see the new i1Profiler application from X-Rite, which will be available later this year, and will include camera profiling in its fuctionality (replacing i1 Match camera profiling).
17th No further info on that sensor, and no new rumours - Anyway, tomorrow I'm off to the IPEX show to look at big printers and colour management news. I'll post some pictures and reports on the site Blog
15th I'm told that the sensor in the Ixus300 is Canon manufactured...
13th Forty million cameras - the EOS line notches up another statistic... [DPR]
11th We don't usually cover the smaller cameras here, but my attention was drawn to two features of the new Ixus300 [DPR]
Still Digic 4, but it's a back illuminated sensor.
No Canon details in the press info, other than marketing type stuff
- "Canon’s new HS System, combining a high-sensitivity 10.0 Megapixel CMOS sensor with fast DIGIC 4 processing for enhanced low light performance and high-speed shooting. "
So the question is, where next will we see a back illuminated sensor?
- ...Update, I'm told that it is a Sony sensor?? - no details though.
'Instant' Rebates starting in the US for a range of lenses/cameras/flash
Item and Rebate Amount
EOS 5D Mark II $100.00
EOS 5D Mark II with EF 24-105 f/4L Kit $100.00
EOS 7D $100.00
EOS 7D with 28-135 f/3.5-5.6 IS USM Kit $100.00
EOS 7D with EF-S 18-135 IS Kit $100.00
EOS Rebel T2i with 18-55 IS Kit $50.00
EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM $65.00
EF 180mm f/3.5L Macro USM $100.00
EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM $30.00
EF 50mm f/1.4 USM $25.00
EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM $130.00
TS-E 90mm f/2.8 $80.00
EF 15mm f/2.8 Fisheye $45.00
EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM $100.00
EF 17-40mm f/4L USM $50.00
EF-S 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5 USM $50.00
EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM $90.00
EF-S 15-85mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM $100.00
EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM $90.00
EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM $80.00
EF 70-200mm f/4L USM $45.00
Macro Ring Lite MR-14EX $50.00
Macro Twin Lite MT-24EX $70.00
Speedlite 430EX II $30.00
Speedlite 580EX II $50.00
The rebates run until the 10th of July , whilst 50D ones run until the 5th of June.
7th A useful timeline courtesy of WP

	Sensor	2000				2001				2002				2003				2004				2005				2006				2007				2008				2009				2010
		1	2	3	4	1	2	3	4	1	2	3	4	1	2	3	4	1	2	3	4	1	2	3	4	1	2	3	4	1	2	3	4	1	2	3	4	1	2	3	4	1	2
Flagship	Full												1Ds							1Ds Mk II												1Ds Mk III
	APS-H							1D										1D Mk II							1D Mk II N					1D Mk III											1D Mk IV
High-end	Full																							5D												5D Mk II
	APS-C																																							7D
Prosumer			D30							D60				10D						20D						30D						40D				50D
Mid-range																300D Digital Rebel Kiss Digital						350D Digital Rebel XT Kiss Digital N						400D Digital Rebel XTi Kiss Digital X						450D Rebel XSi Kiss X2				500D Rebel T1i Kiss X3				550D Rebel T2i Kiss X4
Entry-level																																			1000D Rebel XS Kiss F

Video capable

6th Last week it was rumoured that a print magazine would have a hot new camera to discuss - however, as pointed out at NR, it was the T2i/550D in 'Popular Photography'.
- It's a long time since a print magazine managed a 'scoop' of any significance in this area ;-)
1st Whilst not easy, a study of 'that patent' finds all kinds of EVF related items and even mentions a pellicle mirror in one configuration. Remember that patents are intended to lay claim to ideas rather than describe an actual product.

April

30th An interesting Canon Patent is mentioned at CR.
Not only sensor IS, but GPS, wireless, a TV tuner and a stack of other goodies...
- GPS for the 60D?
28th DPP3.8.2 Mac (3.8.1 Win) is spotted [Thanks] on the 7D software download page.
- Fixes a malfunction wherein the trimming ratio is entered abnormally when it is set to Custom using the trimming/angle adjustment tool, and also when the trimming area is copied to other images
27th It's 'awards' time again and if you have a look at the list from TIPA...
You'll see all the usual suspects, including products not even announced in parts of the world where some of the voting members come from ;-) The 7D and G11 pick up gongs for 'Best DSLR Expert' and 'Best Expert Compact Camera'
24th Much like the dearth of sunspots currently visible [SW], all the various rumour sites or forum sections [POTN] have gone into quiet mode...
20th It seems that Canon CPS has had a makeover in Canada [CR], and like the US (but unlike here in the UK and in Europe) they charge for the service.
19th Apart from the burst of video related stuff at NAB last week, we've had no solid Canon rumours for some time (i.e. not in the 'green ink'/'shouting at cats' category ;-). There is some talk [NR] of a Nikon announcement within the next few weeks, but it's worth noting Thom Hogan's comments [BT]
I see that Nikon has a new president who suggests [RT] that growth in the next ten years will slow, as the camera market reaches saturation. It certainly does look increasingly difficult to see what the real visible advances in camera performance will be that make a compelling case to upgrade. When I get a 1Ds4 to look at, I'm not expecting a big (i.e. immediately noticeable) improvement in image quality over the 1Ds3 - to get a large difference suggests that there are big deficiencies in what I use currently for my day to day work. Sure I can sometimes see ways I'd like image quality improved, but for a fair bit of my commercial work, the results from my original 1Ds would still be acceptable. I'm just finishing up a review of the Epson 3880 printer and it really is getting more difficult to say: yes, this printer improves feature X, over the previous version.
17th Some nifty DSLR remote controls (for video) from RR - expensive, but they look good ;-) [PB]
14th Sony previews a 'big sensor' video camera at NAB [EG], while it seems that an episode of a popular TV show was shot on a 5D2 [PP]
- If you're wondering - the video heavy snippets are because of the ongoing NAB show in Vegas. I know enough of film making (from both sides of the camera ;-) to know that I don't have the requisite skill set to produce good video. As to whether my own business will need to gain these skills, I'm not so sure, despite all the cries that 'stills only' photography businesses will suffer in the coming years. That's not to say lots of photographers won't try video, before realising why there are usually so many names on the credits of the good stuff... ;-)
13th Panasonic bring the (squareish) micro 4/3 sensor to video [DPR] OK, it's a distant announcement, since the camera won't appear until the end of the year.
More to come?
12th Big news in video/DSLR coming up? Well NAB starts tomorrow and Vince L certainly thinks so.
Despite some suggestions, I think not a 1Ds4 (OK well, I hope not ;-)
Could it be this from Canon [TDP]
- "...new Canon XF305 and XF300 professional tapeless HD camcorders"
10th It seems that Canon rebates in Canada start on the 15th [CR] - these are the sort that we'd just call a temporary price reduction...
Thom Hogan continues with his musings on where camera design might/should/will go - the archived parts of the essay are on one page whilst the current part is on the site front page (until it moves off)
- The world of large format printers moves at a slower pace than the consumer photo market, but since we use them, I keep an eye on new developments. Canon has announced a new range (but not yet in the UK) and HP might be expected to renew its lineup this year too - as such I've collected info together on a new LF rumours page.
7th Canon announces a new CPS setup in Europe [DPR] - unfortunately the CPS website does not yet seem to have caught up to this (later fixed)
1st Always a day to avoid real announcements ... [PB] See also JA on the APS-C compact page

March

26th It's worth noting Thom Hogan's note of realism about the Quantum dot stuff the other day [TH] - new technologies come along all the time - it was only a few years ago that Foveon was the future, and Bayer sensors would soon to be a thing of the past...
- BTW I've been asked several times about personal photography tuition, and have decided to offer it in a few specialist areas (architecture & using tilt/shift for example) - I've also created a directory aimed at other pro photographers offering training - if it's what you do, or you care to suggest someone, check the training directory, although it's a bit sparse at the moment ;-)
25th It's been a while since we received any info of note - even some of our longstanding contributers have said how quiet things are - perhaps Canon finally managed to plug their leaks. I know that the level of info shared by Canon in Japan has fallen over the last few years, which may make it easier to control the message (well, at least -before- kit is announced), but has not always fostered harmony between the different operating regions of the company.
In a move that just happened to generate plenty of publicity, the owner of the CanonFieldReviews site decided that he preferred working with Nikon.
Nothing wrong there, but what really caused some adverse comment was his (IMHO perhaps ill advised) initial decision to remove all the Canon reviews that he had so painstakingly written in the past. As someone who writes reviews, it would be like removing all my Epson reviews and articles, just because HP or Canon had given me a printer. I've always been very aware that your reputation for writing reviews is a relatively fragile thing and not easy to repair [Northlight's review policy].
I personally value the reviews and info on the CFR site, but know that some may perhaps now see the content in a slightly different light.
22nd In the 'interesting' technology area, there is quite a bit about Quantum dots for sensors being talked about on some forums - two slightly more technical sources [ EET, TR]
18th Some problems found with the new 5D Mk2 firmware - not critical, but no bonuses to whoever was in charge of testing...
- I've noticed people on some boards recently complaining about the quality of rumours, here and on other sites that just cover rumours. Sorry for anyone offended, but do remember the comment at the top of the page. Whilst I filter out some of the more egregious nonsense I'm sent, if I stuck to 'A++' rumours from known good sources, the pages would not have much on them ;-)
15th In what I believe is a first, Canon adds a significant functionality upgrade to a current product with the 5D Mk2 firmware update.
14th Seems I was caught by Google, taking some photos last year ;-)
10th In a different comment [thanks] we're told that uncompressed video via the HDMI port is indeed possible with existing hardware but is currently restricted to lower quality. Could we be looking at an additional firmware 'feature update'? for selected cameras?
Pentax finally announce the 645D, but Canon MF info has gone very quiet.
9th We're told [thanks] to expect uncompressed (RAW) video out of the camera's HDMI port as an option at some point on higher end Canon DSLRs. No news at the moment on the precise type of video output or whether this is within the realms of a firmware update, or requires new hardware.
Announcements? Seems that some Canon WinPC photo studio workflow software was announced at WPPI. Very much aimed at commercial portrait type studios in the US...
They also have the iPF6300 and friends on display, whilst at Focus in the UK, Canon UK don't have a date for the printers being officially announced here.
Of course, that means that there are some pretty good deals available on the likes of the iPF6100 we reviewed last year.
7th Full details on all the Canon -US- rebates are at the Canon US site.
- I'm visiting the Focus trade show in Birmingham, tomorrow. From a photography POV I've sometimes found it a tad heavy on the wedding/portrait side of things, but it does give me a chance to have a personal chat with a lot of our more useful trade contacts. I'll be picking up mail while I'm there (10-3), so if anyone wants to say Hi, then just drop me an email :-)
2nd Will -any- Tuesday do? ;-) ...Monday 8th for Nikon and Tuesday 9th from Canon [POTN] - I've not seen this date anywhere else or had any direct comments.
The long awaited 5D firmware update is due this month - I believe this is the first firmware update I've seen from Canon that actually adds significant functionality to a model - particularly since the 5D2 was announced in 2008.
- I've also finished quite a long review of Canon's 9500 Mk2 printer
1st Canon have updated quite a bit of their support software. New cameras and things like Win7 compatibility. DPP adds an image rotation tool. Full details on a page I put together a while ago which also offers some suggestions as to what to do when you've lost your Canon install disk.
Rumours have gone very quiet of late after the minor 1Ds4 rumbling. Major announcements are probably several months away.

February

25th So, it was a US announcement of the printers from a few weeks ago...
The 1000D is looking somewhat ancient and underpowered of the current Canon SLR line-up - now the 550D comes in at 18MP, there is probably enough room at the bottom for a replacement, although not until the 550D is shipping and 500D stocks are dwindling.
The 50D is also looking increasingly on it's own with no video and prices on a par wtih the 550D at the moment. With the similarities between the 7D and 550D is there a space for a 60D? The only suggestion that we've had for the 60D recently, suggested that it would see the arrival of Digic V later this year.
That said we've had very little new rumour input (from known sources).
17th Date for an announcement? A marker put down for the 23rd (next Tuesday) at CR
- Figures - I'm out all day :-)
9th Along with the 550D, Canon have announced a new video plugin for using with Final Cut Pro
- London, 8th February Month 2010 – Canon today announces the development of a plug-in that will enable quicker and easier editing of EOS MOVIE footage in Final Cut Pro. A free Beta release of the plug-in will be available to download for testing and evaluation in March 2010.
- ‘EOS MOVIE Plugin-E1 for Final Cut Pro’ is being developed to provide an even smoother workflow for EOS MOVIE users who edit using Apple’s Final Cut Pro software suite. The plug-in will enable the ‘log and transfer’ of video footage from Canon’s EOS 5D Mark II, EOS 7D and EOS-1D Mark IV Digital SLR cameras – all of which offer full 1080p HD video recording.
- The plug-in will convert EOS MOVIE footage to Apple’s high quality ProRes 422 codec at approximately twice the speed of Apple’s standard conversion. Additionally, users will also be able to add timecode, reel names and metadata to footage quickly and easily – further enhancing the experience of EOS MOVIE users when editing their footage.
This from a US release (no sign of it yet)
The EOS E1 video plug-in is a free download available at http://www.apple.com/downloads/macosx/finalcutstudio/. The plug-in is compatible with Final Cut Pro 6 or higher and currently supports Canon EOS 5D Mark II, EOS 7D and EOS 1D Mark IV cameras.
There are also 3 new large format printers iPF6300/6350/8300
18MP in the 550D makes the 50D/1000D look a little long in the tooth and bereft of video
4th It seems that Canon is going to be pushing video with their next camera release(s).
They are holding an event in the UK at the BAFTA awards on Monday (8th) called "Canon at the movies" [PL]Could this be the 60D? a 'movie focused camera' Or there is Canon's recent announcement [PDF] of a new MPEG-2 Full HD (4:2:2) file-based recording codec for an upcoming camera, such as the recently shown demo model.
We've also heard of people being invited to a Canon product release on the 9th.

January

30th The new 1D4 firmware contains markers for two unidentified camera models [CR].
29th No signs of any hints or even a teaser campaign for something big. Can we expect maybe a few well placed 'leaks' this weekend? ;-)
- Whilst waiting, why not do a quick check of your colour vision acuity courtesy of X-rite. Of course you're quite likely viewing it via a non colour managed browser on a non calibrated monitor, so don't worry too much - I scored 3 BTW
27th A Canon in-body IS patent and one for an extra LCD in the viewfinder are unearthed at CR
18th It's time for a 2000D/6000D rumour to do the rounds again - the same one we found in Sept 08 referring to the EOS D2000 / Kodak DCS 520 ...no cigar this time for PR ;-)
Another comment (thanks), suggests that in February it will be the 60D at 18MP and also a 1Ds4 at 21MP [sic], whilst the next 18MP xxxD won't be announced for a while.
This is a followup from the '60D' testing report from just before Christmas, pointing to new camera, looking similar to the 50D, but with a dedicated video control button like the 7D.
- Whilst the 60D sounds plausible, a 21MP 1Ds4 would raise some eyebrows - can't see Canon leaving their 'flagship' sitting behind Nikon/Sony in MP. Unless they were 21MP of full colour pixels... I note that the exact same rumour was sent to CR (Note, the sender of this info subsequently said it should have read 32MP)
For video, we hear that the 5D2 is Canon's preferred choice as an HD Video solution (-not- the 1 series) and that the forthcoming firmware update will address more video usability issues than just framerates.
17th We're hearing (thanks) of invites going out for various Canon press events on the 9th Feb, following announcements on the 8th (a Monday)
We also hear (thanks) that what's coming is a DSLR positioned in 'between' the 500D and 50D.

So, what number for such a camera?

500D - 15.1MP, 3.4 fps HD Video, Digic 4

50D - 15.1MP, 6.3 fps and Digic 4

We've had comments for some time that a tilt screen was on its way, what else new?

16th What's likely next month? A suggestion for 1Ds4 delivery in June/July hints that it won't be the Mk4. Time for replacements for the 500D/50D?
12th A real 9D rumour at last...
8th Remember the new wireless options announced [DPR] round the time of the 1D4 announcement?
Well now there are new versions again...
"The new WFT-E2 II A Wireless File Transmitter, WFT-E4 II A Wireless File Transmitter and WFT-E5A Wireless File Transmitter for the EOS-1D Mark IV, EOS 5D Mark II and EOS 7D"
See Canon US press info
I believe this may just represent different versions around the world, but the 7D version is new.
6th We've suddenly been getting lots more bits of info - suggesting that quite a few cameras (and lenses) will be announced this year. I've updated all the various individual pages, but 2010 seems to have gotten off a good start in rumourland.
5th I notice that with the new 70-200 2.8L IS II announcement, many items have returned to their normal positions on the Canon US site. A careful look at the archive page still shows both EF (mkII) extenders listed, along with other stuff...
The current lineup gets fixed - looks as if Canon US were a bit hasty in altering their web site - that or they just wanted the free publicity ;-)
- It does look as if film has at last been exorcised from the EOS lineup ;-) OK, the web site cock-up theory was always the most likely, but it shows how much old glass was sitting in the line up (some perfectly good BTW) - see our lens list on the lenses page for just how many EF lenses there are/were.

Will we see any more Canon announcements for CES 2010? It runs from the 7th to the 10th Jan. I know it's 'Consumer' electronics, but there might be more than small point 'n' click silver boxes ;-) [Digital imaging at CES]
4th Some light reading to avoid work (if you're back from the holidays today)

Thom Hogan's predictions

CR predictions

Techworld predictions

JMG predictions

My own predictive facilities are a bit clouded, since I'm getting married on March 13th - which also happens to be my 50th birthday :-)
That said, I'd say that betting on the replacement of the 1000D (2000D?), 500D (550D?), 50D(60D?) and 1Ds3(1Ds4?) by the end of the year would not lose you much money.
My two not so likely (but would be nice) ones are that the 1Ds4 will be a -really- big jump in technology from the 1Ds3 (and no, I don't count video in this) - maybe even a new 1 series designation and that the FF 3D will appear with no more than 16MP and -really- good low light/DR characteristics.
Not sure when this lot will arrive, but I know that that Canadian CPS members are invited to an 'Olympic welcome party' at the start of the winter olympics in Vancouver next month.
Perhaps a chance to see Canon's vast new range of lenses at the Vancouver City Aquarium? ;-)
3rd Large numbers of lenses vanish from the Canon US lineup and there is the first suggested date for an announcement from Canon - Feb 9th [CR]

2009 December 25th Happy Christmas* to all our readers - I'm just taking a break from cooking the Christmas lunch :-)

*Or whatever holiday you may be taking - We still say Happy Christmas in the UK, whether people observe it or not. Sorry, but the more politically correct 'Happy Holidays', just sounds wrong to my ears.

9th A Canon 'launch event' towards the end of January? [CR]

4th Interesting Canon 'touchsceen' patent covered at PB

Good article about some of the current limitations of DSLR video [DVX]

I'm still testing the 7D, but outdoors testing is being slowed by a rather sore throat :-(

2nd A curious 'roadmap' [CR] - 3D and a square sensor camera - I rather think not ;-)

November 17th All quiet in rumours land as far as I can see.

15th Australian price cuts - probably a currency move, but worth looking out for elsewhere.

EOS-1Ds Mark III $11,999 $10,999 -$1,000
EOS-1D Mark III $6,499 N/A N/A
EOS 5D Mark II Premium Kit $6,299 $5,499 -$800
EOS 5D Mark II Body $4,799 $3,999 -$800
EF 24mm f/1.4 II USM $2,799 $2,549 -$250
EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM $3,549 $2,999 -$550
EF 135mm f/2L USM $1,879 $1,649 -$230
EF 200mm f/2 LII IS USM $8,199 $8,149 -$50
EF 300mm f/2.8L IS USM $8,229 $7,499 -$730
EF 400mm f/4 DO IS USM $11,179 $8,249 -$2,930

EF 400mm f/2.8L IS USM $13,709 $12,499 $1,210
EF 500mm f/4L IS USM $11,699 $10,499 -$1,200
EF 600mm f/4 IS USM $15,299 $13,999 -$1,300
EF 800mm f/5.6L IS USM $18,999 $16,999 -$2,000
EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM $2,599 $2,299 -$300
EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM $2,199 $2,079 -$120
EF 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6L IS USM $4,399 $3,699 -$700
EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM $3,149 $2,699 -$450

13th Canon release 1D MkIV white paper - useful background read [PDF]

BTW Just tried Using the iPhone as a remote camera control with a Canon WFT-E2

12th We're told that Canon is about to release a new price list in Australia. The prices of the 5D2 and 1Ds3 are set to drop noticeably (1Ds3 ~10%)

Thanks too for all the comments about iPhone use ;-)

11th We've reviewed the Ricoh GX100 and 200 in the past and I've really liked the designs. It's interesting to see Ricoh come up with a genuinely different approach to small digital cameras - I've got some more details on the APS-C Compact page and certainly do hope to get a look at one when they are around.

On a different note - I've just won an iPhone 3Gs - trouble is, I just don't use mobile devices. I'd really appreciate comments from photographers as to how they find such a device useful?
...for photography - I'm not into organising the rest of my life yet ;-)
Any thoughts? - Feel free to leave a comment/suggestion on the blog

8th As expected, all has gone quiet on the rumour front. Despite a few suggestions of lens pre-announcements later this month, we've had nothing detailed suggesting anything new until January.

Even our regular, Canon Medium Format, Canon microEF (Canon's answer to micro 4/3) and 3D rumour sources have gone into hibernation after the 7D and 1D4 announcements - these reflect things that Canon has seriously looked at for some time (we're told), but is still waiting for the right market conditions before moving from engineering test to production testing.

October 26th With camera announcements over for the year, what's next on the list? - If I get any more detailed tips, I'll put them in the listings for the particular cameras.

The 1000D dates from June 08, and does not have any video. A 2000D (or whatever) with 12MP and basic HD video looks likely.

The 60D is a likely arrival earlier in the year (50D announced end Aug 08) Add HD video to a 50D, but not too much to overtake the 7D.

The 500D only dates from March this year, so a 550D could be later in the Spring.

The 1Ds4 can then comfortably wait until a pre Photokina announcement (see also today's comments/speculation).

Oh, and there is the 3D - think full frame 7D Probably not until after the 1Ds4 opens up a hefty MP gap above the 5D2. Will Canon produce a 'big pixel' FF cam?

US 'instant' rebates announced - Canon info

Runs until January the 16th - lenses and flashes

The full list is:

EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM - $30

EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM - $130

EF 200mm f/2L IS USM - $500

EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM - $100

EF 17-40 f/4L USM - $50

EF-S 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5 USM - $50

EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM - $80

EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM - $70

EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM - $150

EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM - $80

EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM - $75

EF 70-200mm f/4L USM - $40

Macro Ring Lite MR-14EX - $50

Macro Twin Lite MT-24EX - $70

Speedlite 270EX - $20

Speedlite 430EX II - $30

Speedlite 580EX II - $50

20th Amongst the announcements today, we noticed the new versions of wireless for the 1D4 -and- 5D2, full details on the 5D2 page. Also, a video firmware update is on its way for the 5D2

Interesting to note that the 1D4 is using dual Digic4 - no sign on Digic V yet

DPP has been updated to v3.7.2, however I've heard of some issues with OSX 10.6 - these are covered on our Canon software page

Just in case you wondered, we do have pages for the 3000D, 650D, 80D, 6D, 8D, 9D, 5D mark 4

14th The EVF gets closer - how long until we see it in what could be an 'introductory level' SLR?

Epson announce their contribution (0.47" diagonal 800x600)

Press info at Epson

13th 1000D firmware update.

11th One I missed from when on holiday... The 35MP Sony A1r - 35MP on a FF sensor [1k1]

If it were so, then what say you a 35MP sensor for the Nikon D4?

2009 October 8th Good presentation by Tim Smith of Canon about 5D2 video (made before 7D announcement) - suggests that the response to the video capabilities took Canon a bit by surprise.

Note - link is to a QT movie, it takes a while to load - list of all clips at a DCS meeting here.

Lots of interesting comments... made me think that my future 1Ds4 is going to be rather special in its video capabilities - even if I've never really got into video

The 20th is being mentioned for some Canon announcements, but no firm info (1D4 page) appear...

Our guide to how rumours are received on some forums

#1 Have you seen this?
#2 What do they know
#3 FAKE!
#4 Could you elaborate on xxx
#5 Jeez, cant you people just get out more
#6 You don't have to read it
#7 Those that really know can't say
#8 7D Mk2 AF issues
#9 Is that all?
#10 I'm switching to Nikon

Archive information

2009 January -September Canon rumours archive page

Pre 2009 info is on the 7D/general rumour archive page