New Firmware for Leica Q2, SL (Typ 601) and CL
Leica Q2
Firmware Version 2.0 for the Leica Q2 brings a whole suite of new features and valued performance upgrades. From core processing improvements on functions such as DNG file writing speed and Tracking AF prevision, to an overhauled top-level menu status screen inspired by the SL2, this new Q2 firmware gives users many new changes that truly merit the 2.0 moniker. Many of these changes are based off user feedback, including the demand for improved scope of video capabilities. The Q2 2.0 update now allows users to fully control all aspects of exposure control during video – ISO, aperture, and shutter speed – giving the Q2 newfound potential for advanced and pro video applications. Many more changes can be found on the following page.
Performance Improvements & Changes:
Selectable AF field size
Choose between three AF field sizes (small, medium, large) by a long tap on the camera's display while touch AF is activated.
Improved DNG writing speed
The DNG and DNG+JPEG writing speed is now two times faster.
Deleting user profiles
The user can now delete individual/single user profiles.
Touch AF + Release
Touch AF + Release is now implemented and works in all AF modes.
Status screen for photo and video implemented
New top-level menu screen for a complete overview of essential settings, with easy access and operation by touch or physical controls. The video mode is now accessed through this new status screen.
Full manual control in video
Extended capabilities for capturing videos with manual control of aperture, shutter speed and ISO by using the PASM mode.
Auto ISO behavior
The auto-ISO behavior was changed to prioritize correct exposure.
Manual Focus behavior
In MF mode, the preselected AF frame will appear and can be used to direct the magnification. The frame can be moved by using the cursor keys. In Multi-Field AF mode, the magnification will start from the center and the last position is saved until the camera is switched off.
Face Detection AF Mode behavior
If face detection does not see a face, the AFMode will now temporarily switch to Field AF instead of Multi-Field until a face is detected.
Leica FOTOS transfer speed
Downloading images from the Leica Q2 to Leica FOTOS app is now up to 50% faster. (The Leica Q2 needs to be paired again with Leica FOTOS after installation of this firmware update)
Variable EVF refresh rate
A menu option was added to choose between 60 fps or 120 fps for the refresh rate of the electronic viewfinder. For fast moving subjects, set 120 fps for a more fluid display of movement (lower resolution), or choose 60 fps for full resolution.
AF-L / AE - added to Zoom button
The AF and AE lock function allows you to lock your focus or exposure settings separately as you recompose your shot.
Improvement of Tracking AF
Precision and overall performance of Tracking AF is improved.
Touch in EVF
Touchscreen AF functionality while using the EVF is now available.
Leica SL (Typ 601)
Learning from its newer brethren, the Leica SL version 3.7 update optimizes video performance and matches the L-Log gamma curve output to the Leica SL2. Now both Leica SL and SL2 can be used together within the same production setup. Other changes include improved compatibility with L-Mount Alliance partner lenses, improvement on shutter lag in bright situations and being able to see firmware versions of attached Leica L-Adapters in the camera menu.
Performance Improvements & Changes:
Optimized video performance
Improved L-Log, which contains the latest developments on video post-production. The same color space as in the SL2 is now also implemented in the Leica SL (Typ 601). Thus, SL (Typ 601) and SL2 can be used with the same gamma curve (L-Log). This gives videographers the opportunity to use an existing SL (Typ 601) together with the new Leica SL2 within the same production setup.
Improvement on compatibility with existing and upcoming lenses from L-Mount Alliance partners
- Improvement on compatibility with lenses that are equipped with a focus limiter switch.
- Improvement on compatibility with lenses that are equipped with an O.I.S. mode switch.
- Improvement on compatibility with lenses that are equipped with an aperture ring.
- Further improvement on compatibility with existing and upcoming lenses from L-Mount Alliance partners
- Improvement of the shutter release delay in bright backlit situations.
- Firmware version for Leica L-Adapters is shown in camera menu.
Leica CL
Similar to its L-Mount cousin, the Leica CL also sees improved compatibility with lenses from L-Mount Alliance partners, increased performance with less shutter lag in bright backlit situations and visibility of the firmware version of attached Leica L-Adapters in the camera menu. Version 3.2 also now prevents video mode from being inaccessible when the battery is low, so now users can choose to film until the final moments of charge left on the battery.
Performance Improvements & Changes:
Improvement on compatibility with existing and upcoming lenses from L-Mount Alliance partners
- Improvement on compatibility with lenses that are equipped with a focus limiter switch.
- Improvement on compatibility with lenses that are equipped with an O.I.S. mode switch.
- Improvement on compatibility with lenses that are equipped with an aperture ring.
- Improvement of the shutter release delay in bright backlit situations.
- Firmware version for Leica L-Adapters is shown in camera menu.
- The video mode is no longer inaccessible when the battery is low, so now users can choose to film until the final moments of charge left on the battery.
