Digital Fujifilm XPan in 2028? Fujifilm’s Latest Lens Patent Points to the Fujifilm TX-3 Panoramic Camera

A while ago, we shared that Fujifilm was considering launching a digital successor to the legendary XPan/TX series in 2028.

For now, let’s just call it the Fujifilm TX-3 — the spiritual digital follow-up to the Fujifilm TX-2 panoramic film camera.

Back in 2024, when we first reported on this, we clearly said it was just something Fujifilm was considering. If they decide to move forward, the plan would be to launch it in time for the 30th anniversary of the original Fujifilm TX-1 — a true 65×24 format panoramic camera introduced in 1998.

The last update I received dates back to September 2024, and it hinted at the possible sensor details. Since then… silence.

Until now.

Today, we may have a new clue to add to the Fujifilm TX-3 puzzle.

We just reported on a Fujifilm lens patent. And in this patent FR-reader Mistral spotted something interesting — something that might relate to the upcoming digital TX/XPan camera.

In fact, looking at all the examples included in the patent, Mistral noticed that they might be actually indicating lenses for a panoramic camera.

  • very large angle of view: 90° to 110°, except for the last of the 21 examples, which is an outlier (35mm f/1,6 with a back focus of 21mm, designed for a 24×36 sensor)
  • too short back focus for an interchangeable lens: 9mm to 13mm
  • odd image circle diameter: 50mm, too big for a 24×36 sensor, too small for a 33×44 sensor but suited to the 24:65 crop of a 33×44 sensor.

Looking at the patent, we’d get something like a 21mm f/2.8. If you want to know the in-depth calculations and observations, make sure to check out Mistral’s post at the French forum chassimages here.

So will we really get a digital Fujifilm XPan in 2028?

Well, that would be a dream come true for many of us. And personally, I hope the rumor becomes reality.

And if anyone can pull this off, then it’s Fujifilm, because it’s a company that thinks differently.

A company with such a massive photographic culture that it understands that cultivating a niche means cultivating the true passion for photography.

If anyone can bring back the spirit of the XPan for a new digital age, it’s Fujifilm. And I truly hope they do.

But what about you? Happy about it or do you consider it a waste of resources?

Fujifilm TX-3 Rumors

Sigma 17-40mmF1.8 vs Fujinon XF16-55mmF2.8 Size Comparison

Here is a quick and approximate size comparison between the Fujinon XF16-55mmF2.8 MKII, the upcoming Sigma 17-40mmF1.8 DC ART and the old Fujinon XF16-55mmF2.8.

It seems that in terms of size the new Sigma 17-40mmF1.8 DC ART will sit somewhere in between the two Fujinon XF16-55mmF2.8 lenses.

As a reference: the Fujinon XF16-55mmF2.8 II weights 410 gram whereas the Sigma 17-40mmF1.8 weights ⁠535 gram.

If the optical quality is very good (and we will find it out on June 17), then the Sigma 17-40mmF1.8 could be a game-changing lens for some fellow Fujifilm APS-C shooters.

Remember: we shared images and full specs of the Sigma 17-40mmF1.8 here.

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Fujifilm Patents Full Frame 40mm F2, GF 20mm F2.8 (GFX) and XF 15mm F2.8 (APS-C)

A bunch of patents have now been published and have been reported by the Japanese website asobinet.

Based on the info provided, it is mainly it’s about:

  • Fujinon GF 20mm f/2.8
  • Fujinon XF 14mm f/2.8
  • Fujinon 40mm f/2 – for Full Frame

You know my take on patents. I mean, I am still waiting for that lovely foldable Fujifilm smartphone ;).

Just saying… take them with a grain of salt.

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BREAKING: First Leaked Image of the Fujifilm X-E5 — The Most Beautiful X-E Camera Ever Made!

Maybe you are having a barbecue with friends.

Maybe you’re out on a road trip, music on, windows down.

Or maybe you’re just enjoying a quiet Sunday, far from work and deadlines.

Whatever (hopefully pleasant) activity you’re up to, I hope you’ll forgive me for briefly interrupting, because I’ve got something exciting to share: the first leaked image of the Fujifilm X-E5.

You can see it in all its beauty above. And for a larger more detailed view, check out the image below.

We notice:

  • the return of the MCS switch (like on the X100VI)—missing on the X-E4, and I’m glad to see it back
  • a viewfinder selector similar to the one on the X100VI, likely functioning like the one on the GFX100RF
  • a bit of a grip, unlike the flat front of the X-E4
  • back to the more traditional strap eyelets, instead of the rectangular and bigger ones on the X-E4.
  • a small wheel on the left side, maybe the diopter adjustment dial
  • no “X-E5” logo on the front left—replaced by a square AF assist lamp. Honestly, that’s a design decision I welcome
  • clearly the sexiest X-E camera ever made
  • and while you can’t see it in the image… trust me, this thing’s going to sell like hot cakes!

Make sure to stay tuned on FujiRumors on June 12 at 5AM New York time for the announcement.

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LEAKED: First Image of Fujinon XF23mmF2.8 R WR

Maybe you’re out on a hike, catching up with friends, or simply enjoying the first days of summer with family. Whatever it is, I truly hope you’re having a fantastic time.

But if I may, let me gently knock on the door of your day with a small gift… something to add a little extra spark to your already great Sunday: a few fresh leaked images.

We start with the first image of the Fujinon XF23mmF2.8 R WR.

Oh, and make sure to stay tuned, as right now I am working on the Fujifilm X-E5 images.

Because yes, it’s Sunday… but you know by now: FujiRumors is always here for you ;).

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