We “predicted” it on 43rumors and now it is here! The new 3D lens for MicroFourThirds cameras. The lens will be on sale by late 2010 and also the image of the lens is just a prototyp. But also other 3D stuff has been announced:

Press release:
ThePhoblographer
DDay (italian)
Gizmodo
dpreview
engadget

Panasonic is pleased to announce the development of the world’s first* twin digital interchangeable lens. The revolutionary new accessory will make high quality 3D shooting possible with an interchangeable lens system camera for the very first time. As 3D content becomes increasingly popular across a variety of platforms, Panasonic plans to release this new lens for sale before the end of the year to deliver the joy and excitement of 3D shooting to interchangeable lens system camera users.

Having already taken the lead in 3D technology, Panasonic has had great success with the launch of their 3D-capable VIERA televisions and 3D Blu-rayTM Disc Players. The 3D market is predicted to steadily grow over the coming years, as explained by industry analysts, Screen Digest: “As consumers slowly replace the main TV set in their house, and as the price of 3D TVs continue to fall, Screen Digest expects that 3D TVs will be in around a quarter of households in major developed markets by the end of 2014***. “

The introduction of the 3D lens aims to respond to demands of consumers who want to enjoy 3D shooting for themselves whilst also expanding Panasonic’s range of 3D products. The lens will allow users to capture images in 3D which can then be viewed back using 3D-capable VIERA televisions in the comfort of their own home.

“As consumers slowly replace the main TV set in their house, and as the price of 3D TVs continue to fall, Screen Digest expects that 3D TVs will be in around a quarter of households in major developed markets by the end of 2014. “

Until now, 3D shooting with an interchangeable lens system camera has only been possible by using panorama systems or a combination of two lenses and two CCDs, but these systems have drawbacks including the need for a dedicated 3D camera and the difficulties of capturing moving objects. Panasonic’s new 3D lens for the LUMIX G Micro System features two optical systems installed within the diameter of the lens mount, creating stereo images from the left and right lenses, to be processed with a 3D image processing system. Thanks to Panasonic’s advancements in optical technology, image processing system, and lens barrel design, the 3D lens still manages to retain an extremely compact size.

This new compact 3D-capable interchangeable lens allows easier handling and instant 3D shooting, producing 3D images without distortion or time lag between left and right images, even for moving objects.

Through expanding its range of 3D products, Panasonic will continue to lead the industry by bringing a true-to-life 3D experience to its customers.

If you are looking for a very high-quality and very fast lens (and you have a lot of money to spend) than you should take a close look on the Konica 50mm f/1.2 lens! I found some image samples of the lens used on a Panasonic G1 here: yotarouyokosuka.com Image samples on Leica cameras are available here on < a href="http://plaza.rakuten.co.jp/utsurundesu/20015" target="_blank">Rakuten and Stephen Lee
A small review is available here: portretteur.nl. He also made a comparison with the Canon FD 50mm f/1.2 lens. A little bit of lens porn on Flickr and here :)

And if you want to get the lens or just check price and availability click here to see the lens on eBay: Konica 50mm f/1.2 lens

More “need for speed” lenses:
– Fujinon 25mm f/0.85
– Four crazy 90mm f/1.0 Lenses
– Voigtländer 50mm f/1.1
– The Leica Noctilux 0.95
– PEN-F Zuiko Olympus 42mm F/1.2
– Schneider Xenon 0.95/50mm
– De Oude Delft 50mm f/0.75
– The 75mm f/0.85 Leitz lens