Panasonic has rolled out new LUMIX firmware updates for several cameras and S Series lenses, improving startup times, adding customizable focus-ring functions, and expanding Bluetooth support for DJI RS 4 gimbals. The updates, available October 20 2025, continue Panasonic’s steady refinement of its hybrid ecosystem.
Following October’s release of the new LUMIX Lab 2.0 and LUMIX Flow 1.3 apps (check our separate article), Panasonic has also issued firmware updates for the LUMIX S5 II, S5 II X, S9, GH7, and G9 II, as well as multiple S-Series prime lenses. These upgrades emphasize responsiveness and integration rather than headline-grabbing features—but they strengthen everyday usability for working shooters.
Faster startup and DJI RS 4 compatibility
The update reduces startup times across the S5 II, S5 II X, GH7, and G9 II, an often-overlooked but welcome improvement for documentary and run-and-gun users.
It also introduces full Bluetooth connectivity for the DJI RS 4 Pro, RS 4, and RS 4 Mini, allowing record and focus-control functions without additional cables. With this, Panasonic aligns its gimbal integration more closely with Sony and Canon, both of which already offer deep DJI compatibility.
Panasonic LUMIX and DJI announced a cooperation on LiDAR over two years ago, and now we see closer integration of their latest cameras with the gimbals. Image credit: PanasonicCustomizable focus-ring behavior
For the S5 II, S5 II X, and S9, the firmware now lets users reverse the manual-focus-ring direction and assign key camera controls – such as ISO, aperture, or white balance—to the ring.
The same functionality is added to six S-Series prime lenses: 18 mm f/1.8, 24 mm f/1.8, 35 mm f/1.8, 50 mm f/1.8, 85 mm f/1.8, and 100 mm f/2.8 Macro. This extra customization may not sound dramatic but can make a real difference for operators switching between stills and video work.
Enhanced app and monitoring support
The new firmware also ensures camera compatibility with LUMIX Flow 1.3, unlocking features such as LUT View Assist, multi-frame markers, and autofocus-frame display when using an external monitor. These additions support more flexible framing – particularly for vertical-format projects destined for social platforms.
Future compatibility is planned for the LUMIX S1 II, S1 II E, and S1 R II, keeping Panasonic’s full-frame line on a shared feature trajectory.
Firmware updates for many LUMIX cameras such as the S5 II and S5 II X were released. Image credit: CineDIncremental LUMIX firmware updates that matter
While none of these changes reinvent the cameras, they collectively smooth real-world operation: faster boot-ups, smarter focus controls, and better communication between cameras, apps, and gimbals.
You can download the latest firmware for your LUMIX camera here.
For owners of the LUMIX S5 II, S9, or GH7, the update is an easy recommendation. Together with the new LUMIX Lab 2.0 and Flow 1.3 apps, Panasonic’s firmware strategy shows a clear intent: keep improving the tools filmmakers already own rather than reserving progress for the next hardware cycle.
Have you installed the new firmware on your LUMIX camera yet? Let us know if the improvements make a noticeable difference on your next shoot.