Since it hit the market in 1995, the EF 28-70mm f/2.8 L USM proved to be very popular with professional and advanced photographers. However, the mounting usage of digital cameras - most having sensors smaller than a 35mm film frame - has necessitated a high-performance standard zoom lens with a wider wide-angle setting. Well, the EF 24-70mm f/2.8 L USM lens answers suitably to these demands.

The optical design is based on the previous lens, but incorporates new design features that allow broader focal length range while maintaining superb image quality. To add, the minimum focusing distance has been reduced from 0.5 metres to 0.38 metres. Improved water and dust resistance ensure that it will become the leading standard zoom lens in the EOS system.