Nikon has confirmed that Firmware Version 2.00 for the Nikon ZR full‑frame cinema camera is in development. The update is scheduled for release sometime in 2026, though no specific month or build number has been announced. A second firmware track, including open‑gate recording and anamorphic desqueeze display, is planned for 2027.
The Nikon ZR, launched in October 2025, is Nikon’s flagship Z CINEMA body. It shipped with RED color science integration via R3D NE RAW, and firmware 2.00 continues that collaboration with codec and monitoring improvements.
What Firmware 2.00 Will Add
- Log3G10 and REDWideGamutRGB in H.265 – compact files with more grading latitude, bringing RED’s log curve and gamut to compressed codecs.
- Selectable High ISO NR during H.265 Log recording – a level control for noise reduction, allowing grading flexibility.
- Focus peaking while recording R3D NE – a practical focus aid missing from earlier builds.
Nikon emphasizes that specifications and release dates can change. The current public firmware remains C:Ver.1.11, dated March 17, 2026.
2027 Features – Open Gate & Anamorphic Desqueeze
Nikon is also developing open‑gate recording and anamorphic desqueeze display, targeted for 2027. These features are not part of firmware 2.00 but are highly requested by filmmakers working with the ZR’s 6K sensor.
RED Apps Integration
RED is updating RED CONTROL and RED CONTROL PRO to enable remote operation of the Nikon ZR. No release dates have been provided, but this integration strengthens Nikon’s partnership with RED cinema workflows.
The Nikon ZR and Nikon cinema ecosystem are available at trusted retailers. Here are some recommended links:
- Nikon ZR Cinema Camera on Amazon
- Nikon ZR Cinema Camera at B&H
- Nikon Cinema Lenses on Amazon
- Nikon Cinema Lenses at B&H
- Nikon ZR Accessories on Amazon
- Nikon ZR Accessories at B&H
- Nikon ZR Cinema Body on Amazon
- Nikon ZR Cinema Body at B&H
How to Prepare for Firmware 2.00
- Monitor Nikon’s official firmware development notices.
- Ensure your ZR is running the latest public firmware (currently C:Ver.1.11).
- Plan workflows around H.265 Log3G10 and R3D NE peaking once 2.00 is released.
- Keep an eye on RED CONTROL app updates for remote operation features.
Should You Wait for 2.00?
Yes — firmware 2.00 promises meaningful codec and monitoring improvements. However, if you are waiting for open‑gate recording and anamorphic desqueeze, those features are explicitly targeted for 2027. Nikon’s roadmap makes clear that 2.00 is a codec‑focused update, while framing tools will arrive later.
Stay tuned for more firmware news and Nikon updates here on DailyCameraNews. For more Nikon coverage, explore our Nikon ZR news and our Nikon system updates.
