Sony has released firmware Ver. 4.0 for both the a1 II and a9 III. The update brings Real-time Recognition AF+, two new Creative Look profiles called FL2 and FL3, and a host of quality-of-life improvements.
Compared to previous releases, firmware version 4.0 focuses on subject detection, preset focus behavior with more zooms, and small but useful UI and network tweaks that matter on set and in the field. The a9 III additionally gets expanded playback, FTP and remote-control options aimed at fast newsroom and agency workflows.
Key changes on a1 II
The a1 II (update here) now supports Real-time Recognition AF+, intended to improve subject detection and tracking. Sony also adds Preset Focus support for certain non-power-zoom lenses, plus two new “Film” Creative Looks, FL2 and FL3. Exposure control during bounce flash and battery level indication are refined, and the camera gains support for writing an electronic signature into video files as part of Sony’s Authenticity Camera Solution, which requires a license and is not available in all regions. Operational stability has been improved. Note that previously stored preset focus or preset zoom positions must be re-registered after updating.
Autofocus tracking performance was significantly enhanced. Image credit: SonyWhat’s new on a9 III
Beyond AF+ and the added FL2 and FL3 Creative Looks, a9 III users can set subject recognition to Auto so the camera picks people or animals as needed (you can get the update here). The on-screen info layout now adapts to portrait or landscape shooting, and Preset Focus can be used with some non-power-zoom lenses, with the same re-registration caveat after updating. Users may choose whether to change shooting, drive, and focus modes via dial or menu. Sony also optimizes bounce exposure, battery display, and adds options to delete or rate files recorded to both card slots simultaneously. Playback now shows folder and file names, and Monitor & Control integration adds focus map and an iris control bar. WPA/WEP are deprecated in favor of WPA2/WPA3. Various FTP automations and Transfer & Tagging hooks are updated for protected assets. Stability is improved. Service availability for some features varies by country.
In case you missed it, check our full Lab Test of the Sony a9 III here.
Face tracking is now better even for faces that are in a very small image area. Image credit: SonyNotes for video and authenticity workflows
Both cameras now support writing an electronic signature into video files for Sony’s Authenticity Camera Solution. This is a paid, licensable option intended primarily for editorial chains where provenance metadata is critical. Sony states timing for license availability outside select news organizations is undetermined and regional support may vary.
Update logistics and small gotchas
Sony flags that Preset Focus and Preset Zoom registrations are not compatible across the update. Plan to re-register positions after installing Ver. 4.0. Also, legacy Wi-Fi security options WPA and WEP are removed on the a9 III, so networks must use WPA2 or WPA3 going forward. As usual, Sony lists “improved operational stability” among fixes.
AF tracking now does a better job staying on the right face. Image credit: SonyQuick summary of additionsReal-time Recognition AF+ on both cameras for improved detection and tracking. New Creative Look options: FL2 (Film 2) and FL3 (Film 3). Preset Focus enabled with select non-power-zoom lenses, with re-registration required after update. a9 III workflow tweaks: adaptive info layout, dial-or-menu mode changes, slot-1/2 simultaneous delete/rate, playback folder and file names, FTP automations, Monitor & Control focus map and iris bar, WPA/WEP removal. Authenticity Camera Solution “electronic signature writing” for video, license required, limited availability.
The 4.0 firmware updates for the Sony a1 II and a9 III can be downloaded here and here.
If you have already installed Sony a1 II / Sony a9 III firmware 4.0, what changes are you noticing in subject tracking, and do FL2 or FL3 meaningfully speed up “straight-out-of-camera” looks for your workflows?