News / Firmware & Software Updates

Panasonic has released firmware updates for its DMC-LX3 premium compact, and the DMC-TZ7/ZS3 and DMC-TZ6/ZS1 compact superzooms. The company has not provided any information about the updates' actions beyond the slightly obscure 'Optimization of software processing. Change in software version has no effect on camera performance.' Firmware v2.2 for the LX3 and v1.3 for the TZ7 and TZ6 are available for immediate download from Panasonic's website.

Pentax has posted a firmware update for its K-7 mid-level DSLR. Version 1.10 adds in-camera movie editing options via its playback mode, an electronic level and a Reversal Film mode to the K-7. Additionally, autofocusing in live view can now be activated by half pressing the shutter. The latest firmware is available for immediate download from Pentax's website.

Canon has posted a firmware update for its EOS 7D digital SLR. Firmware v1.2.2 fixes AF point selection and display bugs occuring under specific shooting conditions, and also addresses an error in movie mode. It also corrects misspellings in the Spanish and Thai language menus. The firmware is available for immediate download from Canon's website.

Olympus has released an updated version of its 'ib' image editing software. Version 1.2 adds video-editing features including creation of movie slideshows. It also adds the ability to perform color management. The update can be accessed via the software's update feature or can be downloaded from the company's website.

Ricoh and Samsung have announced firmware updates for the GXR system and TL500/EX1 enthusiast compact respectively. Ricoh's update, covering the A12 50mm equiv. macro, S10 24-72mm equiv. and P10 28-300 equiv. zoom lens units, fixes bugs and brings in a few improvements. Meanwhile, firmware version 006291 for the Samsung EX1 and v.006254 for the TL500 are bug-fixes - correcting an error when the camera is turned on with the playback button and contributing towards system stability.

Leica has posted a firmware update for its M8 and M8.2 digital rangefinders. Version 2.005 for the both cameras fixes the 'Shutter Fault' error that can occur when shooting multiple images. The firmware is available for immediate download from the company's website.

Canon has released firmware updates for its EOS-1D Mark IV and EOS Rebel T2i/550D digital SLRs. Firmware v1.0.8 for both cameras fixes a bug in the movie mode. The update for the EOS 1D Mark IV also corrects misspellings in the French and Spanish language menus. The latest versions are available for immediate download from Canon's website.

Sony has released the promised firmware update for its NEX cameras adding 3D Sweep Panorama mode. This mode separates the left and right edges of the individual image used for creating panoramic shots. It then uses these slices' differing perspectives to create a 3D still image that can be played back if you buy one of the company's Bravia TVs. Firmware version 02 also includes bug fixes and promises to improve camera performance including quicker start-up in low light conditions. The updates are available for immediate download from the company's website.