The Canon 70D announced earlier in the year included a new technology for the company called Dual Pixel AF that was designed to be excellent in both photo and video modes. Now Canon is working out a hardware upgrade for the C100 that will include this Dual Pixel AF technology and should give the camera similar performance as the 70D in video mode. Click through for more on this upgrade and how much it's going to cost if you want to get in on the action.
If you missed the 70D autofocus test video from cinema5D, here's the kind of performance you can accept with the hardware upgraded C100:
Thanks to Dean for sending this my way, here's a description of how it works:
The upgrade provides a new Continuous AF (Autofocus) Function for all Canon EF Lenses, apart from manual-focused models, using Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology. A new AF Lock setting also lets you change the image framing while holding the desired focus point. These critical focusing capabilities are designed to enhance the smooth capture of moving subjects and achieve more natural-looking autofocus so users can meet their creative needs in even more situations.
The EOS C100 camera with Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology features a CMOS sensor that consists of an array of pixels that each feature two separate photodiodes. By continuously comparing their outputs during AF mode, phase-difference autofocus helps ensure non-blurred images even when the talent and/or camera are moving. The new feature places a high priority on image quality, providing a natural, smooth autofocus movement with all Canon EF lenses – including newer-generation STM lenses – offering quieter operation.
And who they're aiming at with the upgrade:
Specific markets include documentary filmmakers, electronic newsgathering, sports productions, weddings and similar special events, nature and wildlife, and many others.
There are two options for AF, Continuous and One-Shot, and AF Lock can become an assignable button on the camera, which is essential if you want a little more control over the Continuous AF:
If you have no use for it, you know who you are, but AutoFocus is getting better and better with these larger sensor cameras. We'll probably reach a point where it will be nearly perfect for many situations -- especially as the AF gets smarter and allows you more manual control over it. The other major benefit to this upgrade is that the C100 should now work with all Canon lenses, not just the STM lenses like with the firmware update that was released in June.
The upgrade is going to cost $500 and be available in Early 2014, but you'll have to send your camera in to be serviced, as it is a hardware upgrade. To read more about how all of this works, head on over to the Canon site.
