Panasonic LUMIX S Lenses Firmware Updates – Now Compatible With S5II Phase Detection AF System

Lens News

by Jeff LochJanuary 17^th, 2023

Panasonic recently released multiple firmware updates for some of its LUMIX S lenses that improve AF performance when used with the new S5II phase detection autofocus system. So let’s take a closer look at all these free firmware updates!

The Panasonic LUMIX S5II was recently released with a new 24MP CMOS full-frame sensor capable of shooting in 6K resolution at 30 frames per second. However, one of the most considerable improvements on the S5II is Panasonic’s first attempt at implementing a hybrid Phase Detection autofocus system. We reviewed the LUMIX S5II, which you can read/watch here, and my colleague Johnnie was pleasantly surprised by this new, competent autofocus system.

Along with this new camera release, Panasonic also published multiple firmware updates for its LUMIX S lenses to improve their autofocus performances with the hybrid Phase Detection AF system of the S5II.

Panasonic LUMIX S Lenses Firmware Updates

Panasonic released four firmware updates for select LUMIX S lenses, including:

• Firmware update version 1.1 for the LUMIX S 20-60mm F3.5-5.6.
• LUMIX S 70-300mm F4.5-5.6 MACRO O.I.S. firmware update version 1.2.
• LUMIX S PRO 16-35mm F4 firmware update version 1.1. However, this firmware update improves the optical correction control, not the autofocus performance.
• Lastly, a firmware update version 1.1 for the LUMIX S 50mm F1.8 prime lens improves exposure stability but not autofocus performances.

As you can tell, only two lenses will benefit from autofocus performance improvements, including the 20-60mm F3.5-5.6 “kit lens.” However, I have very little doubt that many other LUMIX S lenses will soon be updated by Panasonic and benefit from the S5II hybrid Phase Detection AF technology.

Price and availability

All firmware updates are available to download now on Panasonic’s website for free. To update your lenses, you’ll need to upload the firmware file to a memory card, put the card inside your Panasonic mirrorless camera, and follow the update process.

Which lens would you like Panasonic to update next? Did you pre-order the S5II, or do you plan on keeping your S5? Don’t hesitate to let us know in the comments down below!