Nikon updates the Z 7 and Z 6 with CFexpress card and RAW video output support

Nikon has announced an exciting-sounding software update for its Z 7 and Z 6 full-frame mirrorless cameras. It confers compatibility with the relatively new CFexpress form of memory card on the 2 units. In addition, it also allows them to record video as RAW files, thus capturing all the information available in a given scene. However, there are caveats to these impressive new upgrades.

The new update, known as firmware version 2.20 for the Nikon Z 7 and Z 6, does allow them to use CFexpress memory. This equipment, despite being close enough in design to XQD cards to avoid the need to modify a card slot, is linked to higher speeds than this standard. However, the cameras will be fully compatible with Sony's type B cards only after updating.

Then again, Nikon notes the Z-series may come to fully support a greater range of these cards over time, as they accumulate certifications and familiarity within its industry. Furthermore, the cameras' shiny new RAW output ability has been developed in conjunction with Atomos. Accordingly, the cameras can only record in this format to that company's video recorders.

In addition, Nikon users should be advised that the Z 7 can only shoot 4K UHD RAW in the DX-based format, and can only do the same in FHD using the FX-based format, although, the Z 6 does not have this issue. However, the video in question will be 12-bit, regardless of resolution.

Finally, RAW support can only be activated at a Nikon service center, which, unless a user can prove they own the Z 6 Filmmaker's kit, will entail a fee, the amount of which the OEM has not specified.