Sony is preparing a mid-month firmware update for the Alpha 7 II that'll give the full-frame camera a new menu option: uncompressed RAW. The free firmware update will make the A7 II Sony's fourth full-frame camera to support uncompressed RAW images.
The firmware update, due to arrive Nov. 18, will add an "Uncompressed RAW" menu option next to the Compressed RAW entry. The update will also expand phase detection of the A7 II's autofocus to support A-mount lenses, along with the already supported.
Along with the improvement to autofocus and the support for uncompressed RAW images, the update will also allow users to re-assign the "Movie" button.
"We're continuing to innovate, with a clear focus to ensure we are meeting the needs and demands of Sony α customers," said Neal Manowitz, vice president for Digital Imaging at Sony Electronics. "The addition of Uncompressed 14-Bit RAW processing and the activation of phase detection AF brings a level of performance and versatility to the A7 II that is well beyond any camera in its class."
Last month, Sony rolled out a firmware update that empowered its flagship A7R II with support for uncompressed RAW files and gave the camera the ability to out put through an HDMI cable using Sony's Remote Camera Control software.
"The A7S II and A7R II are compatible with Sony's growing lineup of α -mount lenses, which now totals 64 different models including 13 native 'FE' full frame lenses," says Sony. "In 2016, Sony aims to build the native FE lens lineup to over 20 different models."
Sony introduced the A7 II a year ago, adding to a lineup it hopes could replace DSLR. While impressed overall with the camera, The Verge's Dan Seifert concluded that series still has a ways to go.
"Sports photographers, portrait photographers, studio photographers, or anyone that just wants a lot of lenses to choose from are still better served by a DSLR than Sony's A7 lineup," wrote Seifert.
