Fujifilm has announced a firmware update to improve video functionality to the X-H2, X-H2S, X-T5, and X-S20 cameras. The new firmware will arrive in Spring 2024, so let’s look at these improvements without further ado!
Fujifilm just celebrated the X Summit Tokyo 2024 to announce what we can expect from the Japanese brand in the upcoming months.
New firmware update centered on video improvements
The Summit focused mainly on the unveiling of the new Fujifilm X100VI, but luckily for Fujifilm users, the company dedicated the last part of their announcements to an upcoming firmware update for the X series 5th generation. The update will improve the X-H2, X-H2S, X-T5, and X-S20 cameras, so let’s take a look at the improvements coming in Spring 2024:
- Firstly, the red frame indicator during recording will be added to the X-H2 and the X-H2S. Remember this functionality is already present in the X-T5 and the X-S20.
- Touch-tracking subject autofocus will be added to the four cameras (X-H2, X-H2S, X-T5 and X-S20).
- Autofocus performance will be improved thanks to algorithm enhancement. Subject detection when using the electronic shutter will improve the four cameras, whereas improved tracking performance will benefit the X-H2S, X-T5, and X-S20.
In the summer, Fujifilm will release these improvements:
- Reala Ace film simulation for the X-H2, X-H2S, X-T5, and X-S20, celebrating Fujifilm’s film simulations 20th anniversary.
- Frame.io camera to the cloud without needing the FT-XH file transmitter grip, for the X-H2S and X-H2.
A new kit lens and XApp update
During the Summit, the XF lens roadmap for the near future was mentioned. The brand has decided to substitute the popular XF18-55mm F2.8-4 kit lens for a new one. The new kit lens for the X series 5th generation will be the new Fujifilm XF16-50mm F2.8-4.8. More than ten years after the previous kit lens was released, Fujifilm wants to improve compactness, versatility, and sharpness with the new one.
Finally, the release of XApp 2.0 is scheduled for February, featuring an updated activity page. Users will now have the capability to view all images captured with a particular camera lens by simply tapping on it and selecting pictures taken with a specific film simulation in the camera roll. Fujifilm has also added a new equipment page with a shutter count (finally!) and battery status.
Final thoughts
It is nice to see a brand continually improving their cameras, even those that have been in the market for some years. As we install these Fujifilm firmware updates, there is the feeling of not being outdated or forgotten by the brand. As a Fujifilm user, I appreciate this philosophy from the Japanese company.
On the other hand, these improvements, if continued, could be giving a clue that there is no plan from the company for a new generation of cameras coming soon. Let’s stay tuned and see what happens next!
What do you think about Fujifilm’s firmware update? Please let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
