Nikon has announced firmware updates for its Z-series mirrorless cameras that bring increased AF performance, better tracking, and more. The update will be released on April 26, 2021.

Nikon's Z-series, inspired by the rugged Nikon D850 DSLR, offers full-frame FX sensors and smaller DX-format sensors in compact, lightweight hybrid bodies, while preserving the familiar Nikon DSLR user experience.

The Nikon Z7 II, the latest Z-series mirrorless camera - just achieved a DxOMark score of 100 in sensor testing, joining the D850 in first place among full-frame cameras (while falling slightly behind two medium-format cameras on the list).

The latest firmware update will apply to Nikon's entire collection of Z-series mirrorless cameras: version 1.20 for the Z7 II and Z 6II, version 3.30 for the Z7 and Z6, version 1.10 for the Z5, and finally, version 2.10 for the Z50.

The update does not bring any major changes, but it should improve the usability and reliability of the existing features of these devices.

Firmware version 1.20 for the Z7 II and Z6 II will improve overall AF performance to enable more stable shooting, including faster focusing when shooting with AF in low-light situations and when using AF with subject tracking.

The update also includes better use of AF when using an external flash, for example, in scenes where cameras previously had trouble detecting faces and eyes. Subject visibility has also been improved during live shooting

Similarly, the Z5 firmware update 1.10 will increase AF detection speed in low-light shooting situations when using Low Light AF mode.

A new "Record Focus Position" option has been added to the Nikon Z7, Z6, Z50 and Z5 cameras through firmware updates 3.30, 2.19 and 1.10, respectively. This setting allows users to save the current focus position when the camera is turned off and restore it the next time it is turned on.

Of the entire list of Z-series cameras, the Z6 is the only one to receive a voice memo record/playback feature, which Nikon says has already been popular with the Nikon D6 DSLRs, but Nikon also reveals that this feature is planned for the Z6 II in a future firmware update.

You'll be able to download the firmware updates from Nikon's website as soon as they become available to the public.