Leica LUX: Leica Camera AG Presents the Professional Photo App for the iPhone

By Brian K. Neal

Leica Camera AG proudly presents the Leica LUX app, a professional-grade camera application that brings the renowned Leica aesthetic to iPhone users. The Leica LUX app empowers both seasoned photographers and beginners to explore the world of Leica photography and lenses, enabling them to create unique Leica Looks with their iPhones for the first time.

With Leica LUX, users can experience the distinctive characteristics of classic Leica lenses without needing a physical camera. The app’s ‘Aperture-Mode’ allows iPhone photographers to capture images with the signature qualities of renowned Leica lenses, such as the Leica Summilux-M 28 mm f/1.4 ASPH and the Leica Noctilux-M 50 mm f/1.2 ASPH. Thanks to Leica’s proprietary image processing engine, which leverages machine learning and computational photography, these lens simulations replicate the unmistakable Leica look, including the famed bokeh effect. This means iPhone users can now emulate the unique aesthetics of legendary Leica M lenses.

Leica LUX utilizes Leica’s color science to offer a variety of color gradations and film presets that mimic those of Leica cameras. Options include Leica Classic, Leica Contemporary, and Leica Black and White. The Leica Standard Look, for instance, processes colors and contrasts more naturally than the native iPhone camera app. With Leica LUX, the iPhone camera becomes a powerful tool for artistic expression, delivering rich textures and impressive nuances. Each Leica Look is designed to add depth and character to captured images.

Leica LUX features a powerful automatic mode, making it accessible for quick snapshots, while also offering manual control over essential parameters such as exposure compensation and shutter speed. This allows photographers to compose every aspect of a photo according to their personal preferences. Whether you’re an experienced professional or an enthusiastic amateur, Leica LUX enables you to capture professional-quality images while maximizing creative freedom. The app is regularly updated with new Leica lens profiles, looks, and features, ensuring a continually evolving photographic experience.

On December 1, 2023, Leica Camera AG acquired the Norwegian company Fjorden Electra AS as part of the Leica LUX development initiative. This strategic acquisition aims to expand Leica’s Mobile Business segment, combining Fjorden Electra’s expertise in app and smartphone accessory development with Leica’s strengths in image processing and imaging quality.

“With the acquisition of Fjorden, we continue to advance our strategic growth and strengthen our position in the smartphone photography segment,” said Marius Eschweiler, Vice President of the Business Unit Mobile at Leica Camera AG. “Our customers will benefit from the combined expertise of two innovation leaders, unlocking new creative possibilities in smartphone photography.”

Dr. Victor Henning, founder and CEO of Fjorden Electra AS, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “Our vision was to enhance joy and professionalism in mobile phone photography. Leica cameras served as role models in our development process regarding functionality, design, and haptics. As long-time Leica fans, our team is excited to further develop this vision as part of Leica and benefit from their technical and optical excellence.”

Leica LUX is offered as a ‘Freemium’ model. The free version includes access to the Automatic Photo mode and the Aperture Mode, featuring emulations of the Leica Summilux-M 28 mm f/1.4 ASPH and five Leica Looks. For more advanced features, Leica LUX Pro is available starting at $6.99 per month, providing manual control over exposure, focus, and white balance, as well as access to the full range of 11 Leica Looks and five Leica lenses. The app’s functionality, including exclusive Leica content and events, will continue to expand over time.

With Leica LUX, iPhone users now have the opportunity to experience the iconic Leica photography style, transforming their mobile photography into an art form.