A couple weeks ago, we saw Canon begin to discontinue DSLR lenses for its EF mount, indicating its ongoing transition and commitment to mirrorless cameras and lenses. The transition is continuing, as the company has discontinued more EF lenses, including two rather popular models.
A couple weeks ago, Canon discontinued the EF 200mm f/2L IS USM lens. Canon Rumors is reporting that the company has now discontinued more lenses, including the EF 85mm f/1.2L USM II and EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM II. Both these lenses were rather popular models (and the EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM II is less than three years old); however, they do have direct mirrorless analogs in the RF 85mm f/1.2L USM, RF 85mm f/1.2L USM DS, and RF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM. Other well-known EF lenses are also on backorder with no ETA at the moment. This is certainly not surprising, as Canon will undoubtedly completely stop manufacturing EF lenses at some point. However, whereas we first saw some more niche lenses discontinued, the fact that more popular models are now getting the axe may indicate an accelerating transition, meaning if you want to purchase new EF lenses, now is probably the time to do it. On the other hand, with Canon’s ambitious lens roadmap, we will likely see the RF lineup filled out quite well in short order.