Firmware update for Nikon Z7 and Z6

A firmware update for Nikon’s full-frame mirrorless cameras, the Z 7 and Z6, will add support for 12-bit RAW output among many other useful features.

According to Nikon, the new firmware will enable several new features, such as AF Eye Detection, increased AF/AE performance and support for CFexpress memory cards. But it is certainly the support for RAW video output that catches the eye first.

Details are scant beyond three pithy sentences in a Nikon press release. This tells us that it will support output of a 4K UHD and Full HD RAW data stream from the camera, which can then be recorded in RAW format supported by an external recorder, and that this will allow users to “use rich 12-bit” colors to achieve flexible color grading.

Atomos has added a bit more information and released a quick statement saying that Ninja V users will be able to record that 12-bit output in Apple ProRes RAW thanks to a future AtomOS update for the monitor/recorder. The firmware release date has not yet been confirmed.

Going back to Nikon’s firmware update, the release date for CFexpress support is also listed as TBA. However, all AF and AF/AE eye detection improvements are scheduled for May. These AE tracking promises will be possible in high-speed continuous (extended) mode, while low-light AF performance will also be improved.

If you want to know more about this tasty Nikon novelty, don’t hesitate to stay tuned to 709 media room and its official website.