Nikon updates Z Series mirrorless camera line
Nikon

Next week, Nikon plans to release a few usability firmware updates for its Z Series mirrorless camera line. This round of updates targets every camera in the lineup. The improvements include improved autofocus (AF) performance and better tracking.

The cameras receiving the update are the Z7 II and Z6 II (firmware version 1.20), Z7 and Z6 (firmware version 3.30), Z5 (firmware version 1.10), and the Z50 (firmware version 2.10). According to PetaPixel, the updates don’t bring anything game-changing. Instead, the updates are quality of life adjustments to the line’s functionality and reliability.

Z7 II and Z6II autofocus boost

To start, the first firmware Z series update — firmware version 1.20 for the Nikon Z7 II and Z6 II — increases AF performance, resulting in a much more stable image. The performance boost includes faster focusing in low light conditions and faster subject-tracking AF. Additionally, the update improves subject visibility during live view shooting as well as the cameras’ performance when using an external speedlight.

Z5 increased AF detection

The Z5’s firmware update also improves its AF. Firmware update 1.10 increases AF detection speed during low light shooing when in Low-Light AF mode.

Save Focus Position

Nikon is adding a new “Save Focus Position” function to a majority of the Z series, specifically the Z7, Z6, Z50, and Z5. The setting saves the cameras’ focus position when the camera is off. That way, next time you turn the camera on you can start shooting with the same focus position instantly.

Voice memo recording/playback function

The Z6 also receives a voice memo recording and playback feature. Nikon plans to bring this function to the Z6 II in the future.

Pricing and availability

All the Z series firmware updates release April 26th on the Nikon website.