OM-System’s Upcoming Tele Zoom Lens

credits: OM System

OM System is one of the few camera makers that still shares a public lens roadmap, and the latest update, shows a new telephoto zoom lens planned for release this year. The roadmap even includes a tiny preview image (up top), though without any real specs. That hasn’t stopped the rumours circulation , and the latest word is that this could be a 70-200mm f/2.8 IS PRO.

Up until now, most people were expecting a 50-200mm f/2.8 PRO, which would fit nicely into the Micro Four Thirds lineup. But a source speaking to 43rumors claims OM System has gone with a 70-200mm instead. That’s led some to wonder if it might be a reworked Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8. There’s no proof of that, and side-by-side comparisons show some clear differences, for example, the zoom and focus rings are swapped compared to Sigma’s design, which suggests OM System may have made some noticeable changes.

Even so, the rumored 70mm starting point doesn’t really line up with the roadmap teaser, which seems to show the zoom starting closer to 50mm. It’s possible the image is from an older prototype, since lens designs can change a lot before release. Whether it’s an original OM System design, a heavily tweaked Sigma, or something in between, the company has been working on this telephoto for a while. If it really does get the PRO label, it should have weather sealing, strong optics, and in-lens stabilisation to work alongside OM System’s IBIS.