NR Claims Nikon to Offer RAW Histogram Feature

[NorthernFocus]

There is an article on Nikon Rumors regarding a new marketing strategy by Nikon which will include release of enhanced functionality via future firware updates. One of the things mentioned is a histogram function that displays the unmodified data exactly as captured by the sensor. They describe it as a function for "advanced users".

There is some suggestion that the "enhanced firmware" updates will require users to subscribe to a service that will initially be free and presumably a paid service at some future date.

[Manfred M]

Sounds interesting, Dan.

Panasonic already has a somewhat similar strategy on their pro video cameras. Software bugs firmware upgrades are supplied for free, but enhancements are a paid-for extra. My AF100, for instance has native 1080i at 60 fps, but about a year or so after release, I could have upgraded to 1080p at 60 fps, for a fairly reasonable cost (in the $100+ range, if I remember correctly).

[dje]

Yes it's an interesting concept Dan. Previously firmware updates were for fixing bugs rather than providing new functionality. For those who are interested here is a link.

Apparently it will be free for three years at least. At this stage it only applies to FF cameras.

Personally I will be interested to see what the "raw" histogram is like. Also for me as a D610 owner, getting hold of functionality such as electronic first curtain shutter currently only available in the D810 and D750 will be nice.

Some people over at LULA are "chafing at the bit" Haven't dared to even look at DpReview !

Dave

[inkista]

Canon users who mess about with Magic Lantern have had RAW-based histogram/blinkies capability for a while. It's very nice. As is auto-ETTR, dual-ISO mode, extended bracketing capabilities, and an intervalometer (which Canon has never supplied). Firmware can accomplish a lot.

The leader in this arena, however, is probably Fuji, who are still issuing updates that add new features to their older X-mount camera lineup.

[IzzieK]

I have read about this one Kathy, only a few days ago and seen Magic Lantern and was quite surprised why Nikon does not have that capability. 'Sort of jealous...Now .... at last, hopefully it is not just a rumour...

Canon users who mess about with Magic Lantern have had RAW-based histogram/blinkies capability for a while. It's very nice. As is auto-ETTR, dual-ISO mode, extended bracketing capabilities, and an intervalometer (which Canon has never supplied). Firmware can accomplish a lot.

The leader in this arena, however, is probably Fuji, who are still issuing updates that add new features to their older X-mount camera lineup.

[Manfred M]

Apparently it will be free for three years at least. At this stage it only applies to FF cameras.

I wonder if we are misreading this a bit. It almost reads to me that Nikon will update, including functional upgrades camera firmware for up to three years. I suspect after this period, the cameras will be considered "stable" and no more updates should be expected.

Providing updates for older cameras would be a pain (older processors and other camera components) and in fact might not even be possible due to hardware limitations.

After all, when was the last firmware update for the D200, D40, D90, etc?

[dje]

I wonder if we are misreading this a bit. It almost reads to me that Nikon will update, including functional upgrades camera firmware for up to three years. I suspect after this period, the cameras will be considered "stable" and no more updates should be expected.

Providing updates for older cameras would be a pain (older processors and other camera components) and in fact might not even be possible due to hardware limitations.

After all, when was the last firmware update for the D200, D40, D90, etc?

Completely agree Manfred, my wording was imprecise.

Dave

[cuilin]

fuji has been doing this since they introduced their x series and it's pretty nice. the newest firmware update (which are always free) was released last month for all of my fuji cameras, including the x-pro 1, which i've had since march 2012. it was a great little camera when i bought it, but what it's become since has blown what i purchased out of the water. i can't wait to see what they make of the x-t1.

nikon would be smart to follow suit. even if every camera was offered free firmware updates for a year after it's release and then went to paid updates, it could work well for them provided they put the time and effort into making quality updates.