New S5II/S5IIX firmware update released: Adds “handheld high resolution”, “AF scope” and “20x magnification”

Today Panasonic issued a major update (firmware here) for the S5II and S5IIx. Here are the benefits:

1. [AF-Point Scope] Function has been added
   – Added an AF point scope function that allows you to enlarge the focus position during AF.
2. High resolution mode function has been enhanced
   – It is now possible to set the shutter speed up to 8 seconds in the High Resolution mode. In addition, [Long Exposure NR] can be used.

   – Thanks to the image stabilizer, [Handheld High-Res] mode has been added to enable recording pictures with higher resolution even without using a tripod.

   * During [Handheld High-Res] mode, the shutter speed can be set at max 1 second.
3. MF Assist Magnification Setting has been added
   – It is now possible to magnify the full screen mode display in MF Assist up to approx. 20 times when recording pictures.
4. Other performance improvements
   – Improved the switching speed between LCD and LVF.
   – Improved viewfinder visibility between continuous shooting frames.
   – Improved operational stability.