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Canon issues update to boost EOS M performance

Canon has announced a new lens for its first interchangeable lens camera, as well as a new firmware update that promises faster AF speeds from the EOS M.

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Canon's first interchangeable lens camera (ILC) had a few teething problems when it was released in 2012.

(Credit: Canon)

While image quality was definitely on par with SLRs, the EOS M was hampered by slow and sluggish autofocus in a variety of situations. In order to address this, Canon has issued a new firmware update that promises to boost the performance of the camera's AF system by up to 2.3x when in One Shot mode.

There are some caveats, though; as with all performance testing, results are dependent on shooting conditions and the lens used. Canon quoted the speed boost based on the assumption that the photographer is using FlexiZone Multi AF and the EF-M 18-55mm kit lens.

As well as the new firmware, EOS M users also have access to a new lens, the EF-M 11-22mm f/4-5.6 IS STM. Though the EOS M uses the same-sized sensor as SLRs like the 700D, the lens mount is different to the EF and EF-S mounts that other Canon cameras use. Previously, anyone who wanted access to a wider lens would have to use an adapter. The 11-22mm is the first truly wide-angle lens in the range exclusively for the ILC.

The new lens will be released at the end of July, while the firmware update will be accessible from Canon's website at the end of June.