Nikon Z9 Firmware Update 5.30 Released: Major AF, Playback & Network Improvements

The Nikon Z9 firmware update version 5.30 is now available, bringing a wide range of improvements to autofocus, subject detection, Picture Controls, playback tools, network functions, and overall system performance. This is one of the most feature‑rich updates Nikon has released for its flagship mirrorless camera, further strengthening the Z9’s position as a professional powerhouse.

Below is a full breakdown of what’s new, what’s improved, and whether you should update your camera right away.

What’s New in Nikon Z9 Firmware 5.30

Still Photography

• Subject detection now works with Single‑point AF and all Dynamic‑area AF modes (S/M/L).
• Expanded focus area dimensions for Wide‑area AF (C1) and (C2).
• New Picture Controls: Flat Monochrome and Deep Tone Monochrome.
• Added support for Flexible Color Picture Controls.
• New Reset focus after shooting option in Auto Capture.
• Added Face as a subject detection type.

Video Recording

• Subject detection now available with Single‑point AF.
• Expanded focus area dimensions for Wide‑area AF (C1/C2).
• New Picture Controls: Flat Monochrome and Deep Tone Monochrome.
• Support added for Flexible Color Picture Controls.
• New Reset focus after shooting option in Auto Capture.
• Hi‑Res Zoom now displays a focus point on detected subjects.

Playback

• Added Date to filtered playback criteria.
• New Loop playback option for video.
• Added Auto‑rotate during playback.

Controls

• New Active subject detection options in Custom Settings (a10, g6).
• a14 renamed to a15: Maximum aperture Lv.
• New Focus limiter setting added (a17).
• Focus limiter and Cycle subject detection options now assignable to custom buttons.
• New 400% zoom option added to Zoom on/off.
• New Jump to the source image role added for playback controls.
• New Cycle image area using built‑in TC option (f11).

Network

• Add descriptive text to FTP profiles.
• New Sync date/time with NTP server option.
• New Overwrite copyright info option.
• Master camera can now detect and connect to remote cameras on the same network.
• Added USB streaming (UVC/UAC) support.

Other Improvements

• Improved autofocus reliability and subject acquisition.
• Direct white balance measurement now available via apps like NX Tether.
• Voice memo recording now works with external microphones.
• Updated HDMI output behavior for uninterrupted monitoring.
• Headphone volume adjustable in the “i” menu during video recording.
• Videos no longer auto‑rotate when Auto‑rotate Pictures is ON.
• New monochrome Picture Controls added to RAW Processing.
• Improved focus point cycling speed.
• Updated tonal characteristics for View Assist (g14).
• Fixed typos in monitor display related to Shooting Menu Bank assignments.

Small Update for Nikon Z5 II

Nikon also released a minor firmware update for the Z5 II, adjusting HDMI output behavior for uninterrupted monitoring. Download link: Z5 II Firmware.

Official Download

You can download the Nikon Z9 firmware update version 5.30 directly from Nikon’s official website here:
Nikon Z9 Firmware Update 5.30

How to Install the Nikon Z9 Firmware Update

1. Download the firmware file from Nikon’s official site.
2. Extract the downloaded file to your computer.
3. Copy the .bin firmware file to the root directory of a formatted memory card.
4. Insert the memory card into your Nikon Z9.
5. Go to Setup Menu → Firmware Version → Update.
6. Follow the on‑screen instructions until the update completes.
7. Restart the camera after installation.

Note: Do not turn off the camera or remove the memory card during the update process.

Should You Update?

Yes — this is a highly recommended update for all Nikon Z9 users. Firmware 5.30 delivers meaningful improvements to autofocus, subject detection, Picture Controls, playback tools, and network workflows. Whether you shoot stills, video, or hybrid content, the enhancements offer better performance, more customization, and smoother operation.

If you rely on the Z9 for professional work, this update is especially valuable thanks to its AF upgrades and expanded subject detection support.

Stay tuned for more firmware news and photography updates here on DailyCameraNews.

Nikon Z9 body: $5,496.95 at Amazon, B&H, Adorama.

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