Even though the camera would cost more, shutter speed-priority AE cameras were important to Canon since users could comprehend shutter speeds easier than aperture settings. However, in America and other overseas markets, aperture-priority AE 35mm cameras were in the majority. Overseas distributors also clamored for an aperture-priority AE model. Canon responded with the AV-1. When this camera appeared, a new type of FD lenses featuring instant mounting/demounting was also introduced. A low-cost FD 50mm f/2 lens was made available for the AV-1.

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