As some readers have already reported, the new L-Alliance was formed by invitation only (Olympus decided not to join) and the L-mount is not an open standard (Leica Camera AG is the licensor). Here are some quotes:
The first quote is from the official L-mount website:
Q: Is the alliance open to further partners?
A: The L-Mount Alliance is not an open alliance. It came about by the granting of licences by Leica Camera AG. Nevertheless, other partners could be taken onboard.
The next quote is from Reddotforum:
Q: Is this alliance similar to the Micro Four Thirds Alliance that was formed in 2008 ?
A: No. It’s different because the L-mount alliance is a closed alliance, with Leica Camera AG as the licensor.Q: Does this mean that Leica isn’t considering future members?
A: Future additional members are possible if the current alliance members agree that the alliance as a whole could benefit from adding more members.
The third quote is from a recent DC.Watch interview with Sigma, Panasonic and Leica top executives:
Q: Are there plans to join alliances other than these three companies?
Kaufman (Leica): First of all, we build firmly with three companies. And after that.Q: Can lens manufacturers also participate in the L Mount Alliance?
Kaufman (Leica): Yes. Since this alliance only specifies the interface of the L mount, there is no need to handle both the lens and the body.
Related posts (more here):
Interview with Sigma’s CEO Kazuto Yamaki about the new L-Mount Alliance
Sigma to announce full frame mirrorless camera with L-mount and Foveon sensor
Olympus at Photokina: nothing to report (rumor: Olympus was invited to join the L-alliance)
