Leica announced a new Cine Compact 1 projector

By LR admin | Published: June 2, 2026



Leica announced a new Cine Compact 1 projector – here are the key specs:

  • Positioning: Leica’s more affordable, portable entry in the Cine projectors lineup for easy plug-and-play home entertainment. Smaller, lighter, and cheaper than the larger Cine 1 model and Cine Play 1 (see previous coverage), while keeping premium Leica optics and ease of use.
  • Brightness: Up to 1,700 lumens via Triple RGB laser.
  • Resolution & Size: 4K (0.47″ DMD pixel-shifting) up to 220 inches.
  • Lens & Processing: Leica Summicron zoom lens with aspherical elements + Leica Image Optimization (LIO); Dolby Vision support.
  • Flexibility: 360° rotation system + auto zoom/autofocus/keystone/screen framing – projects on walls, ceilings, or any surface without a fixed screen.
  • Design: Bauhaus-style aluminum housing with glass front; includes eco-friendly recyclable transport case. Optional stand and tripod mount available.
  • Smart Features: VIDAA OS with built-in Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, etc.; Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.4, AirPlay, HomeKit, HDMI, USB.
  • Audio: Built-in spatial sound with Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, and DTS Virtual:X; expandable via Bluetooth/HDMI.
  • Pricing & Availability: €1,645 / $1,995; on sale from June 18, 2026 – for availability, check our sponsors:
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Additional information:

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Posted in Other Leica Stuff| Tagged , | 3 Comments

Chinese HSG reportedly in advanced talks to acquire Blackstone’s and potentially Kaufmann’s stakes in Leica Camera

By LR admin | Published: June 2, 2026


Bloomberg reports that HSG (HongShan Capital Group, formerly Sequoia Capital China) has emerged as the leading bidder in advanced discussions to acquire Blackstone’s approximately 45% stake in Leica Camera AG.

According to people familiar with the matter, HSG may also seek to purchase the remaining ~55% held by the Kaufmann family (via ACM Projektentwicklung), potentially gaining full control of the company. The discussions value Leica at around €1 billion.

Blackstone originally acquired its stake in 2011 for roughly €130 million to support Leica’s international growth. If HSG completes a full acquisition, sources indicate the firm could explore a potential public listing (IPO) of Leica.

The talks are ongoing, and there is no guarantee a deal will be reached. No official comments have been made by any of the parties involved.

Here is the recap:

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Posted in Other Leica Stuff| Tagged , , | 5 Comments

The rumored Leica SL3-P camera will be announced at the end of June

By LR admin | Published: June 1, 2026


The Leica SL3-P camera is rumored to be announced at the end of June (around June 22-25th).

The rumored/expected Leica SL3-P camera specifications can be found here:

Updated Leica SL3-P camera rumors


Posted in Leica SL3-P| Tagged | 26 Comments

A new Light Lens Lab 75mm f/1.5 Z21 lens for Leica M-mount will be announced on June 5th

By LR admin | Published: May 31, 2026


As previously reported, Light Lens Lab will continue developing the “Z21” series M-mount lenses with additional focal lengths, retaining the same rendering and characteristics as the current Light Lens Lab 50mm f/1.5 Z21.

On June 5th, 2026, Light Lens Lab will announce a new 75mm f/1.5 Z21 lens for Leica M-mount, further expanding the distinctive “Z21” series (a modern homage to the rare 1950s/60s Angénieux S21) to a 75mm focal length.

The Z21 line uses high-refractive-index, lanthanide-infused glass to recreate vintage character while improving contrast and usability. Expect a 10-blade (or similar) diaphragm for smooth bokeh, aluminum construction for lightweight (~300-350g), a minimum focus distance of ~0.7m, full-frame coverage, vintage-inspired with classic engraved markings, yet usable on modern digital Leica cameras.

Check the official Light Lens Lab for updates.

Previous coverage of Light Lens Lab lenses can be found here:

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Posted in Leica Lenses| Tagged , , | 21 Comments

Leica digest #234

By LR admin | Published: May 31, 2026



→ Meike announced a new AF 85mm f/1.4 Ⅱ MIX full-frame lens for L-mount available in three different colors (additional information).


→ The Mandler 35mm f/2 “Seven Elements” lens for Leica M/LTM mount is still in stock.

 
→ Some Sandsik and Lexar memory cards are on sale (see full list).


→ There is a new Leica-focused project/website called Red Dot Field Guide – a growing resource covering Leica cameras, used prices, release history, and related editorial features.


→ Upcoming destination workshops from Leica Store Miami.

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Act fast: the Mandler 35mm f/2 “Seven Elements” lens is back in stock (limited quantities)

By LR admin | Published: May 30, 2026




The extremely popular Mandler 35mm f/2 “Seven Elements” lens for M/LTM mount is now back in stock in limited quantities. The last few batches sold in a day or less, so act fast if you want one.

The Mandler 35mm f/2 is a complete reproduction of the original Leica Summicron 35mm f/2 seven-element optical lens formula. The name “Mandler” is a tribute to Walter Mandler, who designed many legendary Leica lenses.

Additional information on the Mandler 35mm f/2 “Seven Elements” lens for M/LTM mount:

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Posted in Leica Lenses| Tagged , , , , | 45 Comments

Leica Q camera appears in the new James Bond 007 video game as a “Shockwave Camera”

By LR admin | Published: May 28, 2026



A Leica Q camera (looks like a Leica Q3 43 with a 28 mm Summilux lens?) appears in the new James Bond 007 First Light video game as a “Shockwave Camera” that stuns enemies and inflicts damage on body armor:

The James Bond connection to the Leica Q line is twofold: Q (the gadget master) has a Leica Q for 007.

I believe that Leica has an ongoing partnership with the James Bond franchise and a history of making limited editions James Bond 007 cameras (is another Leica 007 special edition on the way?):

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Posted in Other Leica Stuff| Tagged | 44 Comments