Sony has quietly rolled out a significant upgrade for the ZV-E10 II —one that dramatically boosts the camera’s slow‑motion capabilities and pushes it closer to higher‑tier creator‑focused models. The update unlocks 4K120p recording, but unlike traditional firmware releases, this enhancement arrives through a free license file, not a standard firmware installer.
This unusual delivery method has sparked both excitement and speculation across the creator community. Below is a full breakdown of what the upgrade brings and why some believe it may influence Sony’s future ZV‑series roadmap.
What’s New: 4K120p & Enhanced Slow Motion
According to the official details, the ZV‑E10 II now gains:
- 4K 120p internal recording, enabling ultra‑smooth slow‑motion capture for cinematic vlogs and action content
- Full HD 240p recording, allowing up to 10× slow‑motion playback depending on frame rate settings
- Full autofocus performance maintained even at these high frame rates
- A 38% crop applied during 4K120p capture, a necessary trade‑off for the sensor readout speed
This upgrade is especially notable because the ZV‑E10 II originally launched with 4K60p as its top slow‑motion option. Unlocking 4K120p elevates the camera into a new performance tier—one typically reserved for more expensive models.
How to Install the Update
Sony is not distributing this enhancement as a traditional firmware file. Instead, users must:
- Visit Sony Creators’ Cloud website
- Sign in or enter their ZV‑E10 II serial number
- Download the free license file
- Install it on the camera to unlock the new recording modes
This approach mirrors Sony’s licensing system used for certain pro‑video features on higher‑end bodies. While unusual for an APS‑C vlogging camera, it suggests Sony is experimenting with modular feature upgrades.
Why This Matters for Creators
The ZV‑E10 II is already a popular choice among vloggers thanks to its compact size, articulating screen, and strong autofocus. Adding 4K120p—at no cost—dramatically increases its creative potential:
- Smoother action sequences
- More cinematic B‑roll
- Better slow‑motion storytelling tools
For a camera in this price class, the upgrade is undeniably impressive.
Rumor Watch: Does This Mean No ZV‑E10 III in 2026?
Alongside the excitement, industry chatter suggests this “epic upgrade” may signal something bigger. Some analysts speculate that such a major enhancement—delivered for free—could indicate Sony has no immediate plans to release a ZV‑E10 III in 2026.
The reasoning is simple:
- Manufacturers rarely give away flagship‑level features shortly before launching a successor.
- A free 4K120p unlock extends the ZV‑E10 II’s lifespan and competitiveness.
- Sony may be shifting toward longer product cycles supported by feature‑based license upgrades rather than rapid hardware refreshes.
While nothing is confirmed, the timing and scale of this update certainly fuel the idea that Sony is reinforcing the ZV‑E10 II as its primary APS‑C vlogging platform for the foreseeable future.
Should You Update?
Absolutely. If you shoot video—especially action, travel, sports, or cinematic vlogs—this upgrade is a must‑install. The ability to record 4K120p and 1080p240 dramatically expands what the ZV‑E10 II can do, and the fact that it’s free makes it even more compelling.
The only caveat is the crop factor at 4K120p, but for most creators, the creative benefits far outweigh the limitation.
You can learn more about the 4K120 Upgrade License in Sony’s help guide or head to the Creators’ Cloud to upgrade.
