Sony has recently unveiled a series of firmware updates for its mirrorless and cinema cameras, introducing new features and enhancements.
The updates target the Alpha 1, Alpha 1 II, and Alpha 9 III mirrorless cameras, as well as the Sony BURANO Cinema Camera.
Key improvements include expanded shutter speed options, custom user LUT support, new recording modes, and more.
Image Credit – SONY
Here’s a breakdown of the updates:
Updates for Alpha 1, Alpha 1 II, and Alpha 9 III
The firmware updates bring significant enhancements to the Alpha series cameras.
Version 3.0 for the Alpha 1 and Alpha 9 III, along with version 2.0 for the Alpha 1 II, offer improvements in photo and video functionality:
Shooting Enhancements
- Expanded shutter speed options, including speeds up to 1/8000 across all aperture settings on the Alpha 9 III.
- Focus bracketing enhancements, with support extended to the Alpha 1.
Movie Features
- User LUTs for better image customization.
- Automatic still-frame creation from movie footage.
- Shot-marking functionality for quick scene identification.
- Operability Upgrades
- Custom key settings during playback.
- FTP scheduling for streamlined transfers.
- Uninterrupted shooting during file transfers.
Image Credit – Sony
Additionally, the firmware enhances Sony’s content verification system, designed for professional photographers.
Expanded compatibility and streamlined workflows are supported through Sony’s new Image Validation Site and a Digital Signature Upgrade License.
These updates align with the C2PA protocol, ensuring authenticity and provenance standards for verified content.
Firmware updates are available through Sony’s support website.
Image Credit – SONY
Sony BURANO Firmware Version 2.0
The Sony BURANO 8K Digital Motion Picture Camera has received firmware version 2.0, scheduled for release in March 2025.
This update introduces:
New Recording Modes
- Proxy recording for streamlined workflows.
- Expanded SDI output support.
- New frame and aspect ratios, including:
- FF Crop 3.8K 16:9 up to 120 fps.
- S35 4.3K 4:3 for anamorphic shooting, up to 60 fps.
- S35 1.9K 16:9 up to 240 fps.
- 1.8x anamorphic desqueeze functionality.
- High/Low Key exposure tools.
- Expanded white balance memory (from 3 to 8 positions).
- Enhanced VF Gamma Display Assist for S-Log3 monitoring.
- Video Output and Metadata Enhancements
- Standardized SDI output across X-OCN and XAVC modes.
- Focus breathing compensation and image stabilization metadata for X-OCN.
Image Credit – SONY
Lens and Power Support
- 24V output added to the Voltage menu.
- Focus, iris, and zoom control for PL mount lenses with the Sony GP-VR100 handgrip.
The firmware vs. 2.0 update is scheduled to be available beginning in March of 2025 from the SonyCine support website.
For more details and the upcoming download, visit SonyCine.com.
Order Links:
- Sony a1 Mirrorless Camera (B&H)
- Sony a1 II Mirrorless Camera (B&H)
- Sony a9 III Mirrorless Camera (B&H)
- Sony BURANO 8K Digital Motion Picture Camera (B&H)
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