Nikon has released new firmware that brings Eye-Detection AF, extension of low-light AF detection range, and addition of AE tracking in the continuous high-speed (extended) mode to the Z7 and Z6 mirrorless cameras.

Nikon UK Press Release

Nikon releases firmware version 2.0 for the Nikon Z 7 and Nikon Z 6

New firmware brings Eye-Detection AF, extension of low-light AF detection range, and addition of AE tracking in the continuous high-speed (extended) mode.

London, United Kingdom, 16^th May 2019: Nikon has today announced the release of firmware version 2.0 that will further enhance the performance of its full-frame mirrorless cameras, the Nikon Z 7 and Nikon Z 6. 

The following main functions, included in the upgrade, will continue to expand the possibilities for visual expression:

1.     Eye-Detection autofocus (AF) in stills mode

2.     Extension of the low-light AF detection range

3.     Addition of the auto-exposure (AE) tracking capability to the continuous high-speed (extended) mode

Firmware version 2.0 primary features

1. Eye-Detection autofocus (AF) in stills mode

The new Eye-Detection AF function automatically detects and focuses on human eyes in the auto-area AF (AF-S, AF-C) mode. When the eyes of multiple people are detected, the multi-selector or sub-selector can be used to select which eye the camera focuses on, even when looking through the Electric View Finder. Once the photo is taken, the user can easily verify that the image is in focus by pressing the ‘OK’ button to zoom in on the eye that was the intended focus target.

* Sample image of Eye-Detection AF at work (for illustrative purposes only)

2. Extended low-light AF detection range

The new firmware enables even faster autofocus when recording dark or dimly lit scenes, with both still-image photography and movie recording. It extends the AF detection range* from −1 EV to −2 EV on the Z 7, and from −2 EV to −3.5 EV on the Z 6. When the Z 6’s low-light AF function is enabled, the available low-light AF detection range* will be extended** from −4 EV to −6 EV, so it will be able to autofocus with even darker conditions.

3. Auto-exposure (AE) tracking in continuous high-speed (extended) mode

Previously, exposure was locked with the first shot in a burst of high-speed continuous shooting. Firmware version 2.0, however, adds support for AE tracking in continuous high-speed (extended) mode, allowing the cameras to track exposure just as it does focus (AF tracking). This ensures that all images captured with a burst of high-speed continuous shooting are not only in focus, but also exhibit optimal exposure, even when the brightness of the scene changes during the burst.

The new firmware can be downloaded (free of charge) from Nikon's Download Centre: https://downloadcenter.nikonimglib.com/en/index.html 

* With still-image photography in AF-S mode, ISO 100, f/2.0 lens, at 20° C/68° F

**The low-light AF detection range will not exceed −4 EV with the Z 7

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