Today, Leica has released Firmware Version 4.2.0 for both the Leica SL3 and SL3-S, delivering a substantial update with a strong emphasis on video functionality, autofocus enhancements, and overall usability. Headline additions include a new False Color exposure assistant for video, expanded vehicle subject detection, HDMI display mirroring with the complete user interface, and support for the new Leica Noctilux-M 35mm f/1.2 ASPH. Beyond the new features, Leica has also refined the video recording interface, improved autofocus responsiveness, enhanced playback options, and addressed a number of bugs to further improve the shooting experience.
As always, we recommend updating your camera to the latest firmware to take advantage of new features and system optimizations. Download links and installation instructions are provided below. Of course, you can also update via the latest Leica FOTOS app as well.
New Features
False Color (Video)
New assistant for color-coded rendering of brightness values directly in Live View. It allows a precise exposure evaluation, specifically for skin tone.
HDMI mirroring including user interface
The camera monitor can now be mirrored via HDMI, including all on-screen icons. A new menu option (Mirror via HDMI) allows easy activation/deactivation of this function.
Lens Profile
Support for the new Leica Noctilux-M 1:1.2/35 ASPH
Extended AF subject detection (vehicle)
Two options have been added to the menu AF Detection to allow for vehicle detection. The user can specify the detection of entire vehicles or specific vehicle parts.
Improvements
Revised video settings selector
The video format selection was fundamentally optimized. A new filter system now facilitates finding the correct settings significantly faster and more conveniently.
Firmware update display
All update-relevant messages will now be displayed automatically displayed on screen regardless of the EVF/LCD setting.
New “full screen mode” in Review mode
In addition to the existing profiles, a new view is now available that displays the image without any information or icons. This view appears between Info Profile 4 and Info Profile 1.
Optimized Leica Looks user interface
The Leica Looks interface for adjusting individual parameters was revised for additional ease of use. Settings can now be adjusted more quickly and more intuitively.
Lens lists
The M- and R-lens lists will no longer be stored in the user profile. These settings will therefore remain accessible from within any profile.
Optimized electronic shutter response time
The shutter release lag during continuous shooting with the electronic shutter (15 fps and higher) has been significantly reduced, allowing for faster image capture more when the shutter button (S2) is pressed down fully.
Improved Tracking Framelines display
In AF Mode, Tracking will display the framelines in the color of the respective detection status. Green markers will show that the camera has successfully completed focusing if no person or animal is detected.
Error Corrections
- A problem with vignetting correction in combination with the “Leica Noctilux-M 1:1.2/50 ASPH.” lens profile was fixed, which could previously result in incorrect over-compensation.
- An issue was resolved where icons in the Control Center (CC) could be missing after importing user profiles.
- A bug was fixed that could cause horizontal red lines to appear in the EVF under certain lighting conditions when the shutter button was pushed to the first pressure point (S1) (SL3 only).
- The Stabilization option was removed from the function list for FN buttons to avoid misunderstandings. Instead, the only selectable option is now Image Stabilization.
- An issue was corrected where the audio level meter for the left channel in Video Mode would – under certain conditions – show incorrect peaks.
Download Firmware Files
To download the firmware file, simply click the buttons below. You'll need to drag and drop the downloaded firmware file onto an SD card which was freshly formatted in the SL3-S, then insert the card into your camera with a fully charged battery. Navigate to the Camera Information menu to access the firmware update option. Don't try to open the firmware file on your computer – just copy it onto the SD card into the root directory. Full step-by-step instructions are below.
Alternatively, you can also update via the Leica FOTOS app if paired with your SL3 or SL3-S camera.
Installation Instructions
- Recharge the battery to 100% and insert the battery into the camera.
- Remove SD and CFe cards from the camera.
- Prepare a SD card for installation:
a. It is recommended to format the memory card inside the camera.
b. Make sure that the card contains at least 200 MB of free disk space.
c. Copy the firmware file to the root directory of the SD card (not in a folder).
d. Insert the SD card into the SL3. - Switch on the camera.
- Open the Camera Information menu item in the main menu. Under Camera Firmware Version you can see the version of the currently installed firmware and you can install the new firmware under Start Update.
- Confirm the update process if you want to start by selecting Yes.
a. The camera will guide you through the process of updating your camera.
b. The camera starts the update process and informs you when finished.
d. Restart the camera; do not eject the SD card.
e. You now can do some settings via the Leica FOTOS App by connecting the camera with the app. If you have already connected the SL3 to the app, delete it from the app and connect the camera again - The update process is completed successfully.
Important notes:
- Any interruption of a running firmware update may cause serious and irreparable damage to your equipment!
- You will therefore have to take particular note of the following, when carrying out a firmware update:
- Do not switch off the camera!
- Do not remove the memory card!
- Do not remove the rechargeable battery!
- Do not detach the lens!
- Do not open the cover/remove the memory card or the battery from the camera while the status LED is lit, which indicates memory access. Data on the card may otherwise be destroyed and camera malfunctions may occur.
If you have any questions about the new firmware or need assistance with the update process, contact Leica Store Miami, call 305-921-4433, or email info@leicastoremiami.com.
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