BR Optics Reduce Chromatic Aberrations Through Blue-Light Refraction Properties

Canon has announced an EF 35mm f/1.4 L II USM lens that uses proprietary technology to correct chromatic aberrations in the glass. 

The company's newly developed technology, known as blue spectrum refractive optics (or BR Optics for short) involves the use of a new organic material that reduces color fringing through unusual refractive properties. Specifically, BR Optics refract blue light to a degree that makes it easier to converge along with other wavelengths at a specific focal point.

When incorporated in between two conventional glass lens elements, BR Optics are said to sharpen images by reducing axial chromatic aberration. In a prepared statement, Canon U.S.A President and COO Yuichi Ishizuka called the new technology "revolutionary."

Canon said the new lens has two aspherical elements and one ultra low dispersion (UD) glass element as part of a 14-element, 11-group configuration with a nine-blade aperture. The minimum focus distance is 0.28m (about 11 inches) with a maximum magnification of 0.21x. The lens weighs about 1.7 lbs. (760 g) and has a 72mm filter thread.

The new lens is expected to ship in October for an estimated retail price of $1,799. It will fetch a premium over Canon's existing EF 35mm f/1.4 L USM lens, which sells for $1,479.