News

When the flagship Sony Alpha 1 was unveiled at the beginning of 2021 with the ability to record 8K/30p video like the Canon EOS R5—the only other consumer-level camera at the time with the ability to do so—we pointed out that the Sony could only capture 8K at 10-bit 4:2:0 quality, as opposed to the 10-bit 4:2:2 video recorded by the Canon. Sony has now evened out the playing field: With its latest firmware update, 8K 10-bit 4:2:2 capabilities have been added.

Firmware version 1.3 also adds lossless compressed RAW capture for stills, with S, M, and L (small, medium, or large) options on offer. The small and medium sizes are 12MP and 21MP resolution, respectively, while the large size “preserves the same image quality as an uncompressed RAW format while significantly reducing the file size.”

Users can download the new firmware now—check out the links in the press release below.
 

PRESS RELEASE

New Alpha 1 Firmware Update Enables 8K 4:2:2 10bit Recording and Lossless RAW File Options

SAN DIEGO, CA – June 13, 2022 – Sony Electronics Inc. today announced the v1.3 firmware update for the flagship Alpha 1 full-frame mirrorless interchangeable lens camera, adding 8K 4:2:2 10bit recording and Lossless Compressed RAW for still images.

Using newly added 8K 4:2:2 10-bit capabilities, filmmakers and cinematographers can more precisely customize the vibrancy and color grading of their recordings. Combined with the Alpha 1’s 8.6K oversampling for extraordinary 8K resolution, the new addition of 4:2:2 10-bit recording lets filmmakers and content creators realize their creative vision with incredible realism and color.

The update also adds Lossless Compressed RAW files in S, M, and L (small, medium, or large) file sizes. Selecting L size preserves the same image quality as an uncompressed RAW format while significantly reducing the file size. The M and S sizes record fewer pixels than the L size, providing more manageable RAW files. With Alpha 1 v1.3, users can freely combine JPEG and their choice of Lossless Compressed RAW sizes based on their use case. This is especially beneficial with a user needs to deliver JPEG files immediately, but also needs RAW files for in-depth editing.

Updates to the Alpha 7S III

A new v2.1 firmware update for Sony’s acclaimed Alpha 7S III full-frame mirrorless interchangeable lens camera is also available for immediate download. Most notably, this latest update includes the introduction of proxy recording during remote computer connect and improvements to Eye AF (autofocus) performance.

Availability

Alpha 1 v1.3 is available now and can be downloaded below:

• Windows
• Mac

Alpha 7S III v2.1 is available now and can be downloaded below:

• Windows
• Mac

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