If you may recall, early last year, Leica officially launched its new photography-focused phone grip called the Leica LUX grip. Today, the company officially announced that it will be expanding the lineup with a new silver colourway.
Now, to set the record straight, there’s nothing really new here outside of the metallic finish. However, in case you missed it, the accessory is made specifically with iPhones in mind and is designed to attach to the smartphone via MagSafe connection. That said, you still need to connect the device and the smartphone via Bluetooth to unlock its full functionality.
As mentioned earlier, the attachment is meant for smartphone photography; as such, it has a two-stage shutter release. Pressing the button lightly focuses on your subject, while a full button triggers the shutter and captures the photo.
Beside the shutter button are two additional buttons that users can customise to suit their preference. Below those three buttons is a control dial that makes it easier for the user to adjust zoom, aperture, and shutter speed.
It’s worth noting that, because the grip is quite thick on its own, it can do double duty as a phone stand. Unfortunately, the company did not provide a battery capacity for the accessory (yes, even until now) but says that it can last for up to 1,000 shots before needing a recharge, which is done by a USB-C connection.
The device is priced at RM1,440, and those who purchase it will receive one year’s access to Leica LUX Pro, a paid subscription tier of the LUX app. It is also worth noting that Leica updated its LUX cases in black leather to fit the newly launched iPhone 18 Pro series
Speaking of, in conjunction with the new grips’ launch, Leica announced that it has just introduced a major overhaul to the aforementioned app. It’s called Leica LUX 2.0, which the company claims is the “most comprehensive update to the Leica LUX camera app”. With the update, the company is allowing users to use the same gallery interface as the Leica Fotos app as well as other changes that would change the user interface. The new interface features app icons inspired by the legendary Leica camera while also featuring Apple’s liquid glass design.
The Fotos app changes have some functional additions as well, such as connecting compatible Leica cameras to smartphones and tablets. This integration makes it easier for users to transfer and manage files. There are other features, like filmstrip, grid view, Adobe Lightroom, and Capture One. And lest we forget, the app is now compatible with the iPhone 18 Pro series.
Lastly, the brand is collaborating with Steve McCurry for the new “Artist Look” in the phone app. This feature will replicate the legendary photographer’s documentary-inspired colour palette.
(Source: Leica press release)
