Leica S2 Firmware Update 1.0.4.2 Now Available

Today, Leica has released a new firmware update for the S2 and S2-P, version 1.0.4.2. From Leica:

Leica Camera has released a new firmware update (FW 1.0.4.2) for the Leica S medium-format system.

The firmware update primarily addresses the use of the new S-Lenses (Leica Super-Elmar-S 24 mm f/3.5 ASPH. and Leica Vario-Elmar-S 30-90 mm f/3.5-5.6 ASPH.), and ensures optimum lens functionality on Leica S2 and S2-P cameras. Furthermore, the installation of the new camera firmware is a precondition for using Leica S-Lenses with central shutters.

Additionally, this latest update also optimizes the shutter priority exposure mode (T) and includes an improved communication of white balance values from the camera to Adobe® Photoshop® Lightroom®.

Users wishing to bring their Leica S2 or S2-P camera up to date can now take immediate advantage of the improvements offered by this upgrade. Registered S customers can now download the files containing the firmware and an installation guide from the owners' area.

To download the new firmware, log in to the Leica Owner's Area and download firmware version 1.0.4.2.

I have installed the new firmware on our camera here, and the main functional difference is that you are now able to set any desired shutter speed in shutter priority (T) mode, and the camera will not override the setting, even if it feels the exposure will not be correct. Additionally, the S2 will transfer the exact white balance setting in-camera to Adobe Lightroom 4 when shooting tethered. This update is also preparing the camera for the new lenses that Leica announced at Photokina, and the CS lenses which we hope to see soon.