Canon Releases Free Firmware for Four Camera Models: Updates for "EOS R1," "EOS R5 Mark II," "EOS R50 V," and "PowerShot V1"

Canon will release free firmware on May 13, 2026 (Note 1), for its full-frame mirrorless cameras "EOS R1" (to be released in November 2024) and "EOS R5 Mark II" (to be released in August 2024), as well as the video-performance-focused "EOS R50 V" (to be released in May 2025) and "PowerShot V1" (to be released in April 2025).

EOS R1 (with RF24-70mm F2.8 L IS USM attached)

EOS R5 Mark II (with RF24-105mm F4 L IS USM attached)

EOS R50 V (with RF-S14-30mm F4-6.3 IS STM PZ attached)

PowerShot V1

This update improves the AF performance and display during video recording for the "EOS R1" and "EOS R5 Mark II," and adds features to enhance operability for video shooting and live streaming purposes for the "EOS R50 V" and "PowerShot V1." The updates are tailored to the specific use cases of each of the four models, supporting smoother shooting.

■ Updates for "EOS R1" and "EOS R5 Mark II"

In addition to new AF-related features and improved accuracy, functions to enhance operability during video recording have been strengthened. American football has been added to the target sports for the "Action Priority" (Note 2) function, allowing the camera to recognize and track subjects during actions such as ball carrying and pass throwing. Even if focus is lost when subjects cross paths, the camera can quickly reacquire and track the subject. Furthermore, for the "Registered People Priority" function, recognition performance for pre-registered individuals has been improved in scenes where only a profile or partially hidden face is visible, enhancing subject discrimination in scenes with multiple moving people. Additionally, it is now possible to switch to false color display during view assist settings, and support for level and grid display during video recording has been added, improving convenience during video shooting.

■ Updates for "EOS R50 V" and "PowerShot V1"

Functions to improve operability for video shooting and live streaming purposes are supported. Compatibility with the wireless remote controller "BR-E2" (scheduled for late June 2026 release) and tripod grip "HG-200TBR" (scheduled for late June 2026 release) allows for intuitive and smooth video shooting, as zoom (Note 3) and exposure compensation can be operated with a lever. Also, the review AF function, which quickly shifts focus from a face to a product when an item to be featured in a live stream is brought close to the camera, can now be used in P/Tv/Av/M modes during video recording instead of a dedicated mode, improving usability for live commerce and review shooting. For the "EOS R50 V," grid display is now possible even during video recording, allowing users to check horizontal and vertical tilt, and it also supports switching to false color display during view assist settings, making exposure confirmation easier. The "PowerShot V1" can now connect directly to the iOS app "Live Switcher Mobile" for live streaming, simplifying initial setup.

Note 1: Downloadable via the smartphone application "Camera Connect." Available for download from the Canon official website from May 14 onwards.

Note 2: Still images, electronic shutter only. Recognition accuracy may decrease if the person's size on the screen is small, if part of the subject is hidden, or if subjects are densely packed. Target sports before firmware application were soccer, basketball, and volleyball. Please check the Canon official website for supported actions.

Note 3: Optical zoom for "EOS R50 V" is possible when using an RF lens with power zoom function, or an RF lens equipped with the power zoom adapter "PZ-E2/PZ-E2B" (released in March 2024).

*IOS is a trademark or registered trademark of Cisco Systems, Inc. in the U.S. and other countries and is used under license.