Leica Lux is a new app announced by Leica Camera AG, a German manufacturer of cameras and sport optics products. It is available on the App Store and loaded with a Leica-inspired user interface, distinct colour profiles, and lenses.
On Thursday, Leica introduced the new app and claimed that it has wide use as it can be used by both entry-level and experienced photographers to capture spontaneous or artistic photos. It is loaded with 11 colour profiles termed ‘Leica Looks, ‘ which are said to be on par with current Leica cameras.
The Lux app can be completely automatic, just like Apple’s very own camera app. It has an, “Aperture mode” which uses software to deliver characteristic signatures of Leica lenses such as the Summilux-M 28 mm f/1.4 ASPH and the Noctilux-M 50 mm f/1.2 ASPH. It uses an image processing engine based on machine learning and computer-aided photography to simulate an accurate effect as the lenses, including their characteristic bokeh effect.
“This means that an iPhone now has the opportunity to emulate photos with the unique aesthetic of the legendary Leica M lenses,” said Leica.
However, all the features are not free, as using Lux in free mode has five Leica looks and one lens imitation. Unlocking all colour profiles, lenses, and pro-camera features, such as manual exposure, requires the user to pay $6.99 per month or $69.99 per year.
With the help of Leica colour science, it has many colour gradations and film presets such as Leica Classic, Leica Contemporary, and Leica Black and White. Even when using the Standard Look, Leica Lux displays colour and contrast differently than the iPhone’s native camera app.
As of December 2023, Leica Camera AG took over the Norwegian camera company Fjorden Electra AS while developing the Leica Lux app. “The business models of both companies ideally complement one another,” said Leica.
They further said that Fjorden Electra AS brought extensive knowledge in the development of apps and smartphone accessories. In contrast, the Leica Camera AG Mobile Imaging development team contributed their expertise in areas of image processing and imaging quality.
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