Sony A7 II gets firmware update for uncompressed raw files

Sony will release a firmware update for the A7 II on November 18, which enables the system camera to capture uncompressed RAW files. Earlier, the A7R II already received a similar update. The firmware also makes the AF system suitable for use with adapters.

When Sony announced the A7S II, it was the manufacturer’s first camera to be able to shoot uncompressed RAW files. At the same time, Sony promised to come up with an update for the A7R II, the top model with 42.2-megapixels. That update has recently appeared and Sony is now announcing that the A7 II will also receive an update. The firmware should be released on November 18.

Until recently, all Sony cameras used lossy compression when capturing raw files. This results in smaller files, but can also lead to image errors in some cases. DPreview, among others, has explained the difference between Sony’s compressed raw files and files that are not compressed.

The firmware also makes it possible to use the 117 phase detection focus points placed on the sensor in combination with adapters. For example, it is possible to use A-mount lenses with phase detection focus with Sony’s own adapters. Previously, this was only possible with the slower contrast autofocus. With third-party adapters such as Metabones, it is also possible to use some Canon EF lenses with phase-detection autofocus on the mirrorless camera. Previously, this was only possible with the A7R II. Finally, Sony A7 II users get more options to assign functions to the buttons on the camera. This makes it possible, among other things, to assign a different function to the movie button.