Nikon’s Fourth Firmware Upgrade for the Z9 Camera Adds Bird Detection
Nikon has announced the fourth firmware update for the Z9 that brings new features to the flagship camera. While smaller than previous updates, it demonstrates Nikon’s commitment to its hardware, even if it is years-old.
Nikon’s first firmware update for the Z9, which launched in April 2022, was its largest and significantly enhanced the camera. It followed that update with another the following October that added nearly 20 more features. This past June, Nikon issued its third that, again, added significant new features.
Firmware 4.10 is much smaller than those that came before it, but elevates the Z9’s autofocus capabilities: it adds the Birds and Airplanes subject detection options.
Nikon says the Birds option increase overall detection performance for birds. The company adds that in addition to increased detection and autofocus performance with what it calls “complicated and high-contrast backgrounds” — such as forests and rocky mountains — this new option adds the ability to quickly detect birds in various states including flying, perched, and even those with what Nikon calls “unique-looking appearances.”
It does not end there: Nikon says that tracking performance with rapidly moving birds has also been increased for what it calls a “smooth shooting experience” that is designed to ensure photographers never miss crucial moments during a shoot.
The Nikon Z8 shipped with an Airplanes option that allowed it to better detect airplanes regardless of their size and that is now being delivered to the Z9. This option offers increased detection capabilities with dark scenes and those that include busy backgrounds. Nikon seems committed to not allowing its older hardware that is technically higher on the totem fall behind in any way — at least not for long.
Nikon isn’t done with its updates. In addition to this update, the company has committed to a firmware update for the Z8 that will add the bird subject detection option alongside the Airplanes option that shipped with the camera at launch. Nikon says that update is currently planned to release in the first half of 2024.
“Nikon will continuously meet users’ needs through firmware updates that expand the functionality of its cameras,” it says.
Firmware version 4.10 for the Nikon Z9 is available to download — along with full instructions for installation — from Nikon’s website starting today.
Image credits: Nikon
