Canon T70

The Canon T70, released in April 1984, represented a significant milestone in Canon's automation strategy for amateur photographers. As the second camera in Canon's T series, it built upon the simplified concepts introduced in the T50 while offering more sophisticated electronic features. The T70 incorporated Canon's fully automatic Program AE mode, which handled both shutter speed and aperture selection, complemented by a unique "Command Dial" interface that allowed users to easily switch between Program, Aperture Priority, and Shutter Priority modes. This user-friendly approach was further enhanced by a simplified control layout, a large LCD status display on the right side of the pentaprism, and a built-in motor drive capable of 1.5 frames per second continuous shooting.

Positioned more firmly in the mid-range of Canon's FD-mount SLR lineup, the T70 represented an important bridge between simpler, fully manual cameras and the coming era of autofocus SLRs. Its successful integration of program automation and intuitive controls set important precedents for future consumer SLRs, particularly in making advanced features accessible to amateur photographers. Though technologically advanced for its time, the T70's significance has been somewhat overshadowed by Canon's subsequent autofocus systems and professional models, leaving it as a competent example of 1980s amateur SLR design rather than a groundbreaking landmark in camera history.