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Canon unveils three new RF lenses bringing innovations and new concepts to enthusiasts and pros alike

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3 years ago

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Canon

It is the first RF zoom lens to combine a dedicated iris/ aperture control ring and Servo functionality via optional power zoom adapters

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, November 2, 2023/APO Group/ — 

RF 24-105mm F2.8L IS USM Z – the ideal choice for a hybrid workflow; Power Zoom Adapters PZ-E2 and PZ-E2B – offering smooth, professional control for the RF 24-105mm F2.8L IS USM Z; RF-S 10-18mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM – a compact and lightweight ultra-wide zoom lens; RF 200-800mm F6.3-9 IS USM – the longest-reaching telephoto zoom lens for the RF mount3.

Canon today announces the launch of three groundbreaking RF lenses and two new power zoom adapters that offer a breadth of capabilities for content creators of all levels, broadening their creative possibilities. 

The ultimate hybrid lens with two optional power zoom adapters

RF 24-105mm F2.8L IS USM Z marks a significant milestone in lens technology, one that many photographers and videographers have been waiting for. This all-in-one lens essentially performs as multiple lenses – including attributes from broadcast, cinema and standard RF lenses to make a truly versatile lens concept. It is the first RF zoom lens to combine a dedicated iris/ aperture control ring and Servo functionality via optional power zoom adapters.

It is designed to cater to the increased demand within the pro creator community for hybrid shoots encapsulating photo and video content. This feature rich, professional-level lens lends itself perfectly to capturing news, documentaries, corporate work, weddings, events, and social media content.

RF 24-105mm F2.8L IS USM Z combines the convenience and reach of the RF 24-105mm F4L IS USM lens, with the creative and low-light capability of the RF 24-70mm F2.8L IS USM – meaning there’s no longer a need to choose between these two strengths when seeking the perfect shot. The lens also maintains 5.5-stop optical image stabilisation for unparalleled image quality (up to 8-stops when combined with in-body image stabilisation1), providing extreme stability for handheld movies and high image quality when shooting images in dynamic shooting situations, such as weddings or events. The smooth control iris ring (for video) offers fine control over changing exposure – all paired with an 11-base iris for beautiful bokeh.

The new lens bridges the gap in the market for hybrid lenses, offering professional shooters the quality they seek across static and video content.

Key features of the RF 24-105mm F2.8L IS USM Z:

  • Excellent image quality and weather sealing providing added durability – alongside sharp high-contrast images due to four UD lenses to correct chromatic aberration
  • Professional electronic parfocal focus capability and focus breathing suppression to maintain a consistent field-of-view when shooting movies
  • Internal zoom operation meaning the barrel length is constant, which is better for rigging, weather resistance, and has a smoother operation
  • Smooth iris ring operation with 32 steps between stops (no clicks) and a lock release switch for the ‘Auto’ position

The features of the RF 24-105mm F2.8L IS USM Z lens can be taken even further with the newly launched power zoom adapters, bringing greater flexibility for filmmakers. The power zoom adapters allow for smooth zoom operation and remote control via Canon’s Camera Connect app or EOS Utility.

Power Zoom Adapter PZ-E2B additionally sports a 20-pin zoom/ focus remote connector that allows compatible zoom/ focus demands to be attached for studio or large-scale production environments – and is even compatible with Canon’s Zoom Servo Grip ZSG-C10.

Key features of Power Zoom Adapters PZ-E2 and PZ-E2B:

  • Ergonomic grip for comfortable use when attached to the lens
  • Optional USB-C external power supply for extended shooting and faster zooming 
  • Wide tele buttons for smooth zooming
  • Zoom speed dial for control over zoom performance
  • Power Zoom Adapter PZ-E2B has a 20-pin remote connector compatible with Canon zoom/ focus demands and Zoom Servo Grip ZSG-C10

The most compact and lightweight ultra-wide angle zoom lens

Revolutionary for ultra-wide angle photography and videography, the RF-S 10-18mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM is designed for APS-C EOS R System cameras and offers a focal range of 10-18mm, making it ideal for travel, landscape, cityscape, and vlogging enthusiasts.

The new lens bridges the gap in the market for hybrid lenses, offering professional shooters the quality they seek across static and video content

The lens delivers outstanding image stabilisation, providing up to 4-stops of optical image stabilisation and up to 6-stops when combined with in-body image stabilisation2. This gives photographers and video users the ability to shoot handheld with confidence, even in low light conditions. Highly-performing when combined with Movie Digital IS, it’s perfect for content creators shooting handheld who want to go wide and fit more in the frame.

Weighing only 150g, this incredibly small and light lens is the perfect companion for your travels. Creators no longer need to compromise as this lens is great for both stills and video content. Offering superior image quality and performance, it is perfect for capturing stunning ultra-wide-angle shots, effortlessly.

Key features of the RF-S 10-18mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM:

  • Compact and lightweight design
  • Ideal for travel, landscape, and vlogging
  • Up to 4-stops of optical image stabilisation and 6-stops combined with in-body image stabilisation2
  • A great match for APS-C cameras like the EOS R10, EOS R50, and EOS R7
  • Superior image quality and flexibility

The longest reaching telephoto zoom lens3

RF 200-800mm F6.3-9 IS USM is a full-frame super telephoto zoom lens set to revolutionise the world of wildlife and sports photography. With an incredible maximum telephoto focal length reach of 800mm, compared to a maximum of 600mm from others currently on the market, it is the longest reaching telephoto zoom lens for the RF mount3.

It is built to withstand challenging conditions with water and dust seals, ensuring photographers can capture breathtaking images in any environment, lending it unmatched versatility.

Designed for those who want to advance their photography and reach the unreachable, this lens is ideal for capturing the perfect shot from any position. Its 5.5-stop image stabilisation (up to 7.5-stops combined with EOS R cameras featuring in-body image stabilisation4), fast autofocus, focal range and optical construction deliver high quality images and videos whilst the zoom has the power to pull even small subjects right into the frame.

It is the ideal choice for enthusiasts who want to push the boundaries of wildlife and sports photography, capturing what may not have been possible previously.  

Key features of the RF 200-800mm F6.3-9 IS USM:

  • Unique, super telephoto zoom for wildlife and sports photography, an ideal choice for amateurs and enthusiasts
  • Up to 5.5-stops of optical image stabilisation and 7.5-stops combined with in-body image stabilisation4
  • Nine-blade aperture for beautiful background rendering, high-quality optical construction, and fast autofocus
  • Weather-resistant for use in harsh conditions

For more information about Canon’s new lenses, please visit:
https://apo-opa.info/3FFnxR6 
https://apo-opa.info/46W6aHR
https://apo-opa.info/3FDPmcF
https://apo-opa.info/3MnBy9O

1 Up to 8-stops with compatible EOS R series cameras with in-body image stabilisation (IBIS)

2 Up to 6-stops with compatible EOS R series cameras with in-body image stabilisation (IBIS)

3 As an AF interchangeable lens for full frame sensor mirrorless cameras that have already been released as of 01 November 2023. Based on Canon research.

4 Up to 7.5-stops with compatible EOS R series cameras with in-body image stabilisation (IBIS) and when used at 200mm

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA).

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China’s digital hub Hangzhou hosts conference on AI, OPC

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21 minutes ago

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June 30, 2026

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OPC

HANGZHOU, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 June 2026 – The inaugural AI+OPC Innovation and Development Conference was held from June 29 to 30 in Shangcheng District, Hangzhou, capital city of east China’s Zhejiang Province. Centered on one-person company (OPC), a new form of smart economy in the AI era, the conference program comprised one opening ceremony and two parallel breakout sessions.

It gathered around 400 delegates from government departments, industry associations, financial institutions, AI enterprises and OPC startup operators across the country. Participants exchanged insights on AI innovation pathways and cross-industry integration strategies, injecting strong impetus into Hangzhou’s ambition to develop a national benchmark hub for AI+OPC entrepreneurship.

A series of key launches and milestone ceremonies took place during the opening segment. Official releases included the 2026 national OPC development observation report, Hangzhou’s 2026–2028 action plan and supporting policies to build a national AI+OPC entrepreneurship hub, and a catalog of actionable AI+OPC application scenarios. Attendees also received an in-depth interpretation of the specifications for AI-enabled OPC community services and evaluation.

The ceremony featured multiple landmark initiatives: plaque awarding for Hangzhou’s priority AI+OPC incubation communities and dedicated observation sites, the official launch of the AI+OPC Community Alliance initiative, and a kickoff marking the official construction of the national AI+OPC entrepreneurship hub.

The open forum session featured keynote speeches from distinguished industry and academic leaders. Speakers included Pan Yunhe, former executive vice president of the Chinese Academy of Engineering and professor at Zhejiang University; Liang Gui, former executive vice governor of Jiangxi Province and ex-director of the Torch High Technology Industry Development Center under the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology; and Zou Ling, head of Hong Hub, Shangcheng District’s single-member unicorn startup acceleration community, who shared cutting-edge insights from varied perspectives.

A panel dialogue followed, bringing together representatives from Moshu OPC Community (Beijing E-Town), the School of Future Science and Engineering at Soochow University, Qingju Hub · Future Digital Intelligence Port (Shangcheng District), and Puhua Capital for in-depth industry exchanges.

Complementary concurrent events held throughout the conference included an OPC capital-industry matchmaking salon, a symposium on industry-education integration for AI-powered OPC sectors, and a national exchange forum for AI+OPC community practitioners.

OPC has emerged as a vibrant new engine driving economic vitality and underpinning high-quality development. Against the backdrop of a new development era, the inaugural Hangzhou AI+OPC Innovation and Development Conference unites OPC innovators nationwide.

Drawing on the creative energy of millions of independent super-individual operators, the event delivers sustained digital momentum to fuel Hangzhou’s super-individual economy, while rolling out replicable local practices and actionable Hangzhou solutions to advance high-quality growth of smart economies nationwide.

 

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Hainan FTP marks 6-month milestone of special customs operations, signs deals during Hong Kong visit

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7 hours ago

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June 30, 2026

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Hong Kong

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 29 June 2026 – As the Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP) marked the six-month milestone since the launch of its full special customs operations, a Hainan provincial delegation wrapped up a three-day visit to Hong Kong. During the visit, the delegation signed deepened cooperation agreements with several major local chambers of commerce and promoted the latest policies introduced since the island-wide special customs operations took effect.

According to data released by Hainan Province during the visit, Hainan’s foreign trade has surged since the launch of special customs operations. As of June 17, the province’s total goods imports and exports reached RMB 173.98 billion (approximately US$24 billion), up 54.6% year on year. Imports of zero-tariff goods hit RMB 2.645 billion, a 120% jump that generated tariff savings of RMB 440 million. A total of 172,100 new market entities were registered—a 61% increase—including 1,240 foreign-invested enterprises. Zero-tariff items now account for 74% of all tariff lines, benefiting more than 12,000 market entities.

During the Hong Kong visit, China Council for the Promotion of International Trade Hainan Provincial Committee (CCPIT Hainan) signed separate deepened cooperation MOUs with the Chinese General Chamber of Commerce, Hong Kong and the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce. Under the MOUs, the parties will establish a regular liaison mechanism for the periodic exchange of economic and trade information, and will promote collaboration in areas including professional services, green finance, the digital economy, supply chain management, and cultural tourism. Mutual enterprise service desks will be set up to provide consulting services regarding policies and projects. The parties will leverage their complementary strengths to help Chinese mainland enterprises access overseas markets via Hong Kong, while facilitating Hong Kong companies’ entry into the Chinese mainland through Hainan.

The delegation also held talks with the British Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong and the American Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong, exploring ways for British and American businesses to leverage Hainan’s value-added processing tariff exemptions and multifunctional free trade accounts to position themselves in regional supply chains and cross-border investment and financing. HSBC, De Beers, and other British firms are already active in Hainan, and the UK served as the Guest of Honor country at the 2025 China International Consumer Products Expo.

According to industry analysts, amid the shifting international trade landscape, Hainan is leveraging Hong Kong’s “super-connector” role to accelerate its integration with global capital and business networks, while simultaneously offering the Hong Kong business community a policy testing ground for entering the Chinese mainland market.

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Africa’s Grid Constraints Come into Focus as Regional Markets Push Toward Integration

Published

4 days ago

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June 26, 2026

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Africa

Regional power pools are advancing and renewable pipelines are growing, but the regulatory and financial architecture needed to connect them remains the continent’s most critical infrastructure gap – an issue central to the Power Africa Today conference at AEW 2026

CAPE TOWN, South Africa, June 25, 2026/APO Group/ –Africa’s electricity demand is projected to nearly double to 2,291 TWh by 2050, requiring an estimated $30 billion in transmission and grid infrastructure investment to unlock and integrate new generation capacity. Yet across the continent, grid systems are struggling to keep pace with rapidly expanding supply pipelines and rising demand.

In Nigeria, repeated nationwide grid collapses as recently as February 2026 underscore the fragility of aging transmission infrastructure. In East Africa, tower failures along the 428 km Loiyangalani-Suswa line temporarily stranded output from Lake Turkana Wind Power – Africa’s largest wind installation. Meanwhile, demand growth pressures are accelerating across North Africa, where electricity consumption is expected to rise by around 50% by 2035, driven by urbanization, desalination projects, and climate-related temperature increases.

Despite these constraints, generation investment continues to accelerate across Africa, particularly in renewables, gas-to-power and hybrid systems. However, without equivalent investment in transmission and interconnection, much of this new capacity risks being underutilized or stranded. This growing imbalance between generation and grid capacity is driving a sharper focus on system-wide planning and regional market design – issues that will be central to the newly launched Power Africa Today conference at African Energy Week 2026. The platform will bring together policymakers, utilities, investors and developers to explore how regional interconnection, cross-border trading frameworks and financing structures can better align generation growth with grid expansion.

Power Markets Experiment with Reform

Alongside infrastructure challenges, Africa’s electricity sector is undergoing gradual – but uneven – market reform. Most countries still operate vertically integrated systems dominated by state utilities, but a growing number are introducing competitive frameworks to attract private capital and improve efficiency.

Zimbabwe opened its electricity market to full private participation across generation, transmission and distribution in 2025, targeting $9 billion in new investment. South Africa is advancing one of the continent’s most ambitious grid expansion programs, with plans for 14,500 km of new transmission lines and 133,000 MVA of transformer capacity by 2034, alongside mechanisms designed to crowd in private financing. Kenya, meanwhile, has introduced open access regulations enabling independent power producers to wheel electricity directly to multiple off-takers, reshaping how generation assets interface with the grid.

Interconnected electricity markets are the foundation of Africa’s industrial future

Regional Integration Remains Fragmented

Efforts to connect Africa’s fragmented power systems are progressing, though at different speeds across regions. In Southern Africa, the World Bank’s RETRADE SAPP program, approved in 2025, is deploying $12 million to strengthen renewable integration and transmission capacity across 12 member states. In East Africa, the Ethiopia–Kenya–Tanzania Electricity Highway is now in trial operations at up to 2,000 MW, marking a significant step toward a more interconnected regional grid.

West Africa is also moving toward deeper integration, with permanent synchronization of the West Africa Power Pool expected in 2026. Analysts, including the African Finance Corporation, argue that such synchronization is critical to unlocking large-scale hydropower potential and industrial demand across the region. Longer term, full synchronization between the Eastern and Southern African power pools – targeted for the end of 2026 – could create one of the world’s largest cross-border electricity trading corridors.

Building Bankable Financial Architectures

While interconnection is advancing, infrastructure alone is not enough to create investable electricity markets. Investors consistently cite the lack of standardized offtake structures, creditworthy counterparties, and cross-border payment guarantees as key barriers to scaling capital deployment.

New models are emerging to address these constraints. Africa GreenCo, operating across Zambia, Namibia and South Africa, is helping to aggregate independent power producers under a single creditworthy intermediary, standardizing power purchase agreements and reducing counterparty risk. At a broader level, AUDA-NEPAD estimates that Africa requires around $30 billion in additional investment to complete priority transmission corridors and establish three fully interconnected regional trading blocs by 2030.

“Interconnected electricity markets are the foundation of Africa’s industrial future,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber. “The question at Africa Energy Week is not whether integration is possible – the evidence is already there. The question is which regulatory frameworks and financial structures will get projects to financial close, and which markets will be ready when capital is looking to move.”

The Power Africa Today conference will run alongside AEW 2026, taking place October 12–16 in Cape Town, and will focus on the regulatory, financial and infrastructural architecture needed to build interconnected electricity markets capable of attracting institutional capital and delivering reliable, cross-border power at scale.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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