Corporate timeline of Canon Inc., tracing its founding in 1937 as a precision optical company, key product innovations like the AE-1 camera and inkjet printers, international expansion, and its evolution into a global leader in imaging and printing technology.
Goro Yoshida and Saburo Uchida establish the Precision Optical Instruments Laboratory in Tokyo, Japan, aiming to develop high-quality 35mm cameras. This laboratory is the direct predecessor of Canon Inc. #history #photography )
The laboratory creates Japan's first 35mm focal-plane shutter camera prototype, named 'Kwanon' after the Buddhist goddess of mercy. The camera's lens is branded 'Canon' (a corruption of Kwanon). #innovation #camera )
Precision Optical Industry Co., Ltd. is officially incorporated with capital of 1 million yen, marking the formal foundation of Canon. The company focuses on manufacturing 35mm cameras. #history #founding )
The company releases the Hansa Canon, the first camera sold under the Canon brand. It uses a Nikkor 50mm f/3.5 lens from Nippon Kogaku (later Nikon). #vintage #camera
After World War II, Canon resumes production under Allied occupation. The company shifts focus to producing precision optical instruments and cameras to rebuild its business. #recovery #history )
The company changes its name to Canon Camera Co., Ltd., reflecting the growing popularity of the Canon brand. The name is officially standardized as 'Canon' worldwide. #branding #corporate )
Canon opens its first overseas sales office in New York City, marking the beginning of global market expansion. The move targets the lucrative American camera market. #global #expansion )
Canon introduces the Reflex Zoom 8, the company's first movie camera, entering the video recording market. #video #technology )
Canon introduces the Canonet series of compact rangefinder cameras, which become highly popular among amateur photographers due to their affordability and quality. #photography #innovation
Canon launches the Canola 130, the world's first 10-key electronic calculator, diversifying from cameras into office equipment and computing. #calculator #technology )
The company adopts its current name, Canon Inc., to reflect its expanding product lines beyond cameras into office equipment and other areas. #corporate #rebranding )
Canon introduces the NP-1100, its first plain paper copier using new technology (Canon's own NP copying process), entering the office equipment market and competing with Xerox. #office #copy )
Canon introduces the FD lens mount for its SLR cameras, a bayonet mount that becomes a standard for Canon's manual focus camera system. #photography #lenses
Canon launches the AE-1, a groundbreaking SLR camera with an embedded microcomputer for automatic exposure control. It becomes a massive commercial success and a milestone in camera history. #innovation #camera
Canon introduces the LBP-10, the world's first laser printer, using an electrophotographic engine. This lays the foundation for Canon's dominance in printing technology. #printing #technology )
Canon launches the BJ-80, the world's first inkjet printer using a bubble-jet technology. This innovation leads to affordable home printing. #inkjet #printing )
Canon introduces the corporate slogan 'The Mind of Canon' to reflect its commitment to innovation and thought leadership in imaging and information technology. #branding #slogan )
Canon launches the Electro-Optical System (EOS) for autofocus SLR cameras, featuring the EF lens mount. The EOS system becomes the standard for Canon's professional and consumer cameras. #camera #autofocus
Canon updates its corporate logo to the current red and white design with a curved 'C', aiming to present a modern, global image. #branding #logo )
Canon releases the EOS 5, its first autofocus SLR camera under the EOS system. It features advanced autofocus and becomes a hit. #camera #eos
Canon releases the RC-260, a digital still camera aimed at the professional market. It records images on a removable memory card. #digital #camera )
Canon launches the PowerShot line of compact digital cameras, making digital photography accessible to consumers. The series becomes highly popular. #digital #photography
Canon begins developing digital X-ray systems and other medical imaging equipment, leveraging its optics and sensor technologies. #medical #imaging )
Canon releases the EOS D30, the company's first digital SLR camera with a CMOS sensor instead of CCD, setting a new standard for image quality and low noise. #dslr #innovation
Canon acquires several companies to strengthen its information systems business, including the IT services firm Canon Information Systems. #acquisition #strategy )
Canon launches the EOS 1D Mark II and EOS 20D, solidifying its leadership in professional and enthusiast DSLR markets. #dslr #professional
Canon acquires the Dutch printing company Oce N.V. for €1.1 billion, expanding its presence in large-format printing and office solutions. #acquisition #printing )
Canon releases the EOS 5D Mark II, the first DSLR capable of recording full HD 1080p video, revolutionizing filmmaking and photography. #video #dslr
Canon opens a factory in India to produce printers and cartridges, serving the growing domestic demand and expanding its manufacturing footprint. #manufacturing #india )
Canon acquires MIVIA, a US-based security camera and network video surveillance company, to strengthen its network video solutions business. #acquisition #security )
Canon introduces the EOS 70D with Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology, enabling smooth and fast autofocus during video recording, a significant innovation. #technology #autofocus
Canon acquires the Swedish network video company Axis Communications for $2.8 billion, becoming a major player in network surveillance. #acquisition #surveillance )
Canon establishes Canon Medical Systems Corporation after integrating Toshiba Medical Systems (acquired in 2016) and existing medical operations, focusing on diagnostic imaging. #medical #healthcare
Canon completes the acquisition of Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation for $5.9 billion, becoming a global leader in medical imaging equipment. #acquisition #medical
Canon celebrates its 80th anniversary and completes the Daiichi-Kan (Building 1) at its headquarters in Ota, Tokyo, symbolizing its continued growth. #anniversary #corporate )
Canon enters the full-frame mirrorless market with the EOS R system, featuring the new RF lens mount, competing with Sony and Nikon. #mirrorless #camera
Canon announces the EOS-1D X Mark III, its flagship DSLR for professional sports and news photography, featuring improved AF and 20fps burst. #professional #dslr
Canon showcases free viewpoint video technology, allowing viewers to change angles during playback, initially used for sports broadcasting. #video #technology )
Canon acquires the UK-based biotech firm Ngenn, adding genetic testing and diagnostic capabilities to its healthcare portfolio. #acquisition #biotech )
Canon restructures its operations into three divisions: Printing, Imaging, and Medical, to streamline management and focus on core growth areas. #corporate #restructuring )
Canon reports annual net sales of over 4 trillion yen (approx. $30 billion), driven by strong demand in medical and printing businesses. #financial #revenue )
Canon introduces a new flat panel detector for digital X-ray systems with higher sensitivity and reduced radiation exposure, advancing medical imaging. #medical #imaging