Samyang has introduced the world’s first optical exchange autofocus lens. The revolutionary lens replaces the internal optical system, allowing photographers to switch between several prime focal lengths without needing extra lenses.

The Samyang Remaster Slim is essentially a lens shell, housing all of the necessary physical and electronic components. A magnetic mounting system holds the center optical elements in place, allowing the user to replace them out. So far, Samyang has shown off 21mm, 28mm, and 32mm optical systems that, according to the company, are inspired by legendary point-and-shoot film cameras of the past, and all have f/2.8 maximum apertures.

“These lenses have been revived with designs optimized for digital sensors while retaining their distinctive features. This small and cute lens will transform any E-mount mirrorless camera into a portable auto camera,” Samyang says.

It is the world’s first autofocus lens with this optical exchange technique and Samyang’s thinnest autofocus lens. The Remaster Slim is less than two centimeters in length and weighs approximately 80 grams. Given the short barrel, the manual focus ring is understandably narrow. There is still room for a bespoke AF/MF switch, however. Samyang observes that the minimum focusing distance is reduced when utilizing manual focus mode, as is characteristic of many lenses. The motivation behind point-and-shoot digital cameras extends beyond focal length selection. Samyang offers classic aesthetics with analog sensibilities.

According to Samyang, “Remaster Slim provides a genuine analog sensibility that is distinctly different from smartphone images created with digital technology. “This lens produces warm and meaningful photographs that digital technology cannot replicate, giving photos a natural and soft tone. It retains the detail and richness of traditional optical systems while addressing modern photography requirements. This allows consumers to experience a unique connection between the past and the present.”