where there’s smoke there’s fire

A reader sent me this link to a Nikon press release scheduled for January 19th that will announce a new “I AM Advancing” program for Nikon DSLR owners where photographers will be able to download advanced firmware updates and add new functionality to their cameras for up to 3 years. The program is starting with support for 6 FX DSLR cameras (D750, D810, D800, D800E, D610 and D600) and will be free to join, not sure what will happen after the first 3 years. The new website will be located at http://imaging.nikon.com/advancing (not yet active).

There were some rumors few weeks ago that Nikon may start charging money for certain firmware updates and maybe this new program is the first step towards that. Here is a list of firmware updates will be available after the program starts:

• New White Balance update, containing Nikon’s latest algorithms for high-quality color balance in any light.
• New “Metallic” Picture Control option, providing photographers with a unique high-contrast setting which is both natural and eye-catching.
• New RAW Histogram. This feature displays impressive full-screen histograms for all 3 color channels (red, green and blue) simultaneously, based on data directly from the image sensor. The new feature allows advanced photographers to fine-tune perfect exposure for each shot.
• Nikon will bring two D810 features to other cameras in the Nikon DSLR line-up:
  • “Flat” Picture Control, which allows photographers more options for adjustment in post-processing and
  • Electronic First-Curtain Shutter feature, which eliminates vibrations caused by the shutter, is newly available for the recently announced Nikon D750 camera.

I already reported that I expect another Nikon announcement around January 16th, still not sure if this rumor was for the “I AM Advancing” program or there will be something more.

Here is the full press release:

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