Nikon Z9 II video specs hidden in Nikon ZR firmware 1.10?

Rumored Nikon Z9 Mark II Specifications:

  • Extended Recording Times: Support for up to 360 minutes of continuous recording.
  • Advanced Thermal Management: Significantly improved heat dissipation and power handling for long-form video.
  • RED R3D NE 12-bit RAW: Integration of RED’s proprietary RAW codec and color science directly into the hybrid flagship.
  • Professional Monitoring Tools: Addition of waveform monitors, vector scopes, and false color displays.
  • Highlight Clipping Warnings: Real-time safety nets tied to histogram and waveform data while shooting in RAW.
  • Production-Grade Metadata: Adoption of RED-style file naming (reel number, clip number, and date) for easier NLE organization.
  • LTC Time Code: Built-in support for LTC time code sync via the audio jack for multi-camera production.
  • Nikon Imaging Cloud Integration: Direct access to RED-engineered imaging recipes and cinematic color profiles.
  • Advanced Exposure Standards: New log formats and exposure controls designed to align with professional cinema workflows.
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Nikon 2026 Predictions Cameras, Lenses, Firmware by Matt Irwin

Matt Irwin expects the following NIkon announcement in 2026:

Camera Bodies

  • Nikon Z9II (Flagship): Development announcement expected between March and September 2026. Features likely include “XP8” processing and RED technology integration.
  • Nikon Z500 / Z90: A high-end APS-C flagship with a stacked 26MP sensor aimed at the D500-legacy wildlife/sports market.
  • Nikon ZRC / Z30R: A professional-grade APS-C cinema camera, effectively an APS-C version of the current full-frame Nikon ZR.
  • Advanced Cine Body: A dedicated cinema camera positioned between the Red Komodo and the Nikon ZR.

Lenses

  • Z Cinema Lenses: A set of 3 to 6 autofocus-capable cinema lenses. The first 2 or 3 are expected by Q2 2026.
  • 70-200mm f/2.8 S Version 2: A redesigned professional workhorse featuring new AF protocols to unlock “hidden” focusing prowess.
  • 100-300mm (or 120-300mm): A high-end “tentpole” lens for sports and wildlife, potentially featuring a built-in teleconverter or Phase Fresnel (PF) technology.
  • Ultra-Wide Prime: A 14mm or 16mm f/1.8 S-line prime designed for astro, interiors, and gimbal work.
  • Exotic Primes: Possible development of ultra-fast glass, such as a 50mm f/1.0 with autofocus.

Firmware & Updates

  • Nikon ZR Major Updates: Version 1.5 expected mid-year and Version 2.0 by late 2026, likely addressing Log video concerns and adding anamorphic desqueeze.
  • Feature Trickle-down: New UI features (like red histogram lines and timecode improvements) moving across the Expeed 7 camera range.