AFAIK there are no FF AF mirrorless lenses with mechanically linked manual focus. Everything is fly by wire.
That does seem to be the trend.
With many of the modern linear AF systems I don't think it's possible (or maybe it's just impractical) to have mechanically linked MF.
I doubt it, or the EF lenses wouldn't work.
I think the loss of mechanical linking is more about giving the platform greater control over computer-controlled AF for very fast or erratic subjects, such as athletes and bats (as in the mammal). I strongly suspect that the people who tend to talk directly to Canon are more in these situations, and they can reasonably purchase (personally or via a company) multiple big white lenses, or beasts like the 28-70.
And the fact that EF lenses still reasonably exist. So if you're weird like me and like that kind of feel or universal MTF then that stockpile satisfies the need, in one way of thinking.
I just re-read your statement and I think I replied after misreading what you wrote. I agree, it probably is impractical. In which case if mechanical linking were reintroduced it might well need to be with older EF technology such as ring USM.
This does bother me because we saw what happened with some of the older Canon lenses that were also entirely electronic for focusing. The 200/1.8L. The 50/1L. Many more. Once parts availability ends, the lens is completely useless if the AF motor dies.
Bingo.
I think that if the following were achieved by Canon then mechanical linking could die a full death for my purpose and feel:
- Universal FTM focus during one-short and servo, regardless of lens (including older RF lenses)
- No need to push AF-on or shutter button
- Tactile feedback in the focus ring with resistance and placement stickiness (use a quality, modern L EF lens to understand this)
- No damage potential if the focus ring is spun with or without power
- No need for menu option or camera switch to engage, or default to engaged
- Identical approach to FTM on all Canon R cameras going forward — again, no on-body switches on some but not on others, etc.
My EF USM lenses all achieve: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, & 6. My 40mm STM is focus by wire.
I understand that many L series RF lenses support: 4, and 1 can now be achieved for most using firmware updates for the lens and sometimes the camera. Probably all except 3 and 6 can be solved with firmware. 3 would probably require some hardware, and 6 is more of a camera design thing.