Canon announces new 200-400 f4 L IS USM lens with internal extender 1.4x

Nikon users used to boast of a 200-400 F4 lens and point out that Canon lacked a f4 zoom in that range. At times the 100-400 despite covering a larger focal length range, used to fall short as its widest aperture was f5.6.

Finally Canon has not only announced the 200-400 F4 L IS USM lens but also has thrown in an internal 1.4x extender. This lens is still under development. Sharing the press release below:

Canon to exhibit new super-telephoto zoom lens under development at CP+ exhibition

TOKYO, February 7, 2011—Canon Inc. today announced in Japan that it is developing a new interchangeable super-telephoto zoom lens for use with Canon EOS-series SLR cameras: the EF200-400mm f/4L IS USM Extender 1.4x. The company will display a mock-up sample of the lens at the comprehensive camera and photo imaging show CP+ from February 9 to 12 at PACIFICO YOKOHAMA Exhibition Hall, Japan.

http://www.canon.com/news/2011/img/p2011feb07a.jpg

The EF200-400mm f/4L IS USM Extender 1.4x
(mock-up sample)

Equipped with a 1.4x internal extender and high-performance Image Stabilizer, the Canon EF200-400mm f/4L IS USM Extender 1.4x is being developed as a super-telephoto L (luxury)-series lens encompassing Canon's optical technologies.

Through the incorporation of an internal 1.4x extender, the Canon EF200-400mm f/4L IS USM Extender 1.4x aims to deliver a high level of convenience in such fields as sports and nature photography by covering a zoom range from 200 mm wide angle to 560 mm telephoto. In addition, the new lens employs fluorite and other special optical materials to realize both high resolution and contrast contributing to high-image quality, and is designed to provide dust-proof and moisture-proof performance in the face of harsh shooting conditions.

Canon will continue to refine its optical technologies, striving to produce exceptional lenses that cater to the varying needs of photographers—from first-time users to advanced amateurs and professionals—while contributing to expanding the photographic possibilities for SLR cameras.

Note:
The abovementioned product is scheduled for release during 2011. Details regarding specifications have yet to be determined.

The press release can be found here: Canon Global : News | News Releases

This lens would be a brilliant addition to the Canon L arsenal. The 1.4x extender inbuilt is a superb feature to have. No more lost shots due to changing TC. Looking forward to this lens.