Sigma CEO Says Possibilities for New Lenses Are “Limitless”

Sigma CEO Kazuto Yamaki recently discussed the future of lens design in an interview with Lensvid at IBC 2026, describing the possibilities for new lenses as “limitless.” He also discussed the company’s expanding lineup, its approach to AI, and the role of robotics in lens manufacturing.

When asked about Sigma’s rapid release of new lenses, Yamaki said the “idea for lenses is limitless.” Advances in optical technology and materials allow the company to improve existing designs, while changes to focal lengths and maximum apertures can also serve as the basis for new products.

Sigma has recently expanded its lineup with products such as the 85mm f/1.2 Art for Sony E-mount and the compact 20-60mm f/2.8-4 standard zoom. The company has also introduced the Aizu series of cinema prime lenses.

Sigma isn’t using AI to design lenses

Despite its interest in innovation, Sigma isn’t currently using AI to design its lenses. Yamaki said that doing so would be a waste of time and resources for now because the specialized knowledge required for high-quality optical design isn’t readily available online.

“We don’t use AI yet because the technology, or knowledge, required to make a high-quality lens are not yet available on the internet,” Yamaki said. “All technology and knowledge are proprietary to us.”

In other words, AI models generally cannot access the proprietary formulas, engineering expertise, and design knowledge that lens manufacturers have developed internally. Yamaki said Sigma does use AI for research and other tasks, but not for lens design.

Robots are helping, but humans remain essential

Yamaki also discussed the use of robots in lens manufacturing. Although automation is becoming more common, people remain necessary for complicated and intricate manufacturing tasks.

Sigma is introducing what Yamaki described as collaborative robotics, in which robots and human workers operate alongside one another. Rather than replacing people entirely, these systems can support manufacturing processes while leaving demanding precision work to skilled employees.

Sigma is satisfied with the L-mount’s progress

The interview also covered the L-Mount Alliance and the growth of the system’s lens selection. Yamaki showcased the Sigma BF camera and discussed the direction of the L-mount ecosystem, saying he was satisfied with its progress.

Yamaki also presented the Sigma 85mm f/1.2 Art, 20-60mm f/2.8-4, and Aizu cinema primes in greater detail, answering questions about their innovations, pricing, and the company’s plans for its lens lineup.

Sigma is also rumored to be preparing another major announcement involving a new L-mount camera before the end of 2026. The company has not confirmed those reports, so the rumored camera’s specifications and launch timing remain unknown.