Nikon announced on 8 September 2026 that it is developing firmware version 2.00 for the ZR, the full-frame cinema camera in the Z CINEMA series launched in October 2025. The update, scheduled for release during 2026, addresses several recurring criticisms since launch: Log3G10 limited to Raw, noise reduction widely judged too aggressive in H.265, and the absence of focus peaking in R3D NE.

It does not resolve everything. Open-gate recording and anamorphic desqueeze display are slated for 2027.

Nikon has confirmed three changes:

1. **Log3G10 and REDWideGamutRGB in H.265.** Until now, RED’s Log curve and associated colour space were available only in R3D NE, a heavier Raw format that demands more storage and post-production work. In H.265, only Nikon’s N-Log and related tools were offered. Version 2.00 extends Log3G10 and REDWideGamutRGB to the compressed codec, so users can keep greater grading latitude while reducing file size.

2. **Selectable High ISO noise reduction in H.265 Log.** Early tests, including those from DPReview and cinematographer Philip Bloom, noted stronger shadow noise reduction than on the Z6III, which shares the same sensor. Nikon is adding an option to choose the intensity of [High ISO NR] when recording H.265 Log, so the look can be matched to the creator’s intent and the tone of the project.

3. **Focus peaking while recording R3D NE.** This manual-focus aid worked in other formats but not in the camera’s flagship codec. That omission will be corrected, making manual lenses easier to use on the RED Raw pipeline.

RED will also update its RED CONTROL and RED CONTROL PRO applications so that the ZR can be operated remotely.

Nikon says it is developing two highly requested features for 2027:

- **open-gate recording** (full 3:2 sensor readout, so footage can later be cropped to 16:9, vertical or another ratio);
- an **anamorphic desqueeze display**.

Other frequent requests are not on this roadmap: a lighter 10-bit 4:2:2 H.265 option than the current ProRes 422 HQ-only path, more compressed R3D NE variants, RED-style false colour, or true 24 fps according to some field reports.

The current public firmware remains version 1.11 (March 2026). Versions 1.10 and 1.11 mainly extended continuous recording time (up to 360 minutes in compressed modes with external power), added wired LTC timecode, RED-style file naming and fixed a few interface bugs.

The ZR occupies a distinct place in Nikon’s lineup: a hybrid body aimed at cinema work, with a full-frame sensor and internal R3D NE recording inherited from the collaboration with RED. Users and reviewers praised the image potential while pointing to workflow gaps for a camera marketed as a dedicated video tool.

Version 2.00 will not turn the ZR into a “complete” camera in the sense of the wish lists published over the past year. It does, however, tackle three practical irritants: access to RED colour science without the storage cost of Raw, control over noise reduction in a lightweight codec, and focus confirmation in R3D NE.

No exact publication date has been given beyond “2026”. Nikon notes that specifications and timing may still change.

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*Sources: official Nikon announcement (8 September 2026), DPReview, CineD, Fstoppers and firmware 1.10 / 1.11 release notes.*