The previously reported Viltrox Nexus F1 Pro cinema with AI-assisted phase-detection autofocus adapter (PL to E) with full AF capabilities and photo/video EXIF support is now available on Kickstarter and already rasised $42k.
The Viltrox NexusFocus PL-E Adapter (also referred to as the Nexus PL to E Pro) is an innovative cinema lens adapter designed to bring full autofocus capabilities to manual PL-mount cine lenses when used on Sony E-mount cameras. Announced as a prototype at IBC 2025 in September, it essentially transforms vintage, anamorphic, or modern manual cinema primes into AI-driven autofocus lenses by leveraging the camera’s native phase-detection AF system.
Key Features
- Autofocus Integration: It taps directly into Sony’s autofocus protocols, enabling features like eye AF, face recognition, subject tracking, and tap-to-focus on the camera’s LCD. No additional sensors (like LiDAR) or wireless follow-focus systems are needed—the adapter uses external motors to drive focus based on real-time data from the camera sensor.
- Iris and Zoom Control: Beyond focus, it supports camera-controlled aperture (iris) adjustments, and with additional motors, it could handle zoom on compatible lenses.
- Lens Profiles: Comes with pre-installed profiles for various PL lenses, allowing quick calibration, saving configurations, and easy swapping without recalibration.
- Power and Design: Powered by a small battery that lasts for days of use. The prototype includes refinements planned for housing, cable management, and motor strength.
Compatibility
- Primarily for Sony E-mount cameras with built-in AF, such as the FX3, FX6, A7 series, and NEX series.
- Limited testing has shown partial functionality on other mounts like L-mount, Nikon Z, and Fuji GFX, with potential for expanded support in future versions.
How It Works
The adapter mounts between the PL lens and E-mount body, then connects to external motors on the lens. It receives AF commands from the camera (e.g., when you tap the screen or use subject detection) and translates them into precise motor movements for focus and iris – making manual lenses behave like native Sony AF glass.
