OM System Announces Firmware Update for OM-1

New Firmware Coming

With the recent announcement of the OM-1, Mark ll came a flood of frustration from original OM-1 owners. The angst was inspired by no mention of any firmware update for OM-1. People were not happy. Most photographers felt the new camera was not much more than a simple firmware update. However, the new camera goes much further than that.

One of the major changes to the OM-1 Mark ll, not necessarily attributable to firmware, is more RAM (Random Access Memory). Having larger RAM capabilities allows for a larger buffer capacity. OM System suggests having more RAM increases computing power for improved AF and an improvement in blackout-free shooting. The blackout-free, better autofocus, larger buffer, and newly rubberized front and rear dials made me jump. I’ve ordered two of the new bodies.

What Features To Expect in Firmware Update

The list below was taken from a translated press release that originally appeared in Japanese.

• AF performance: Some improvements include making capturing key subjects easier in S-AF and C-AF all-target mode. But not up to the same standards as the OM-1 Mark ll.
• Optimization of AF performance (not sure what this means)
• Operability: Menu operation with the trash button during shooting will be supported, and menu operation with the right hand will be made possible.
• Improved operability (not sure what this means)

OM System Interview

The disappointment grew even louder due to an interview with OM System management that suggested at least some of the new improvements were simply firmware updates in the new camera. The question from original OM-1 supporters was, could this new camera be possible with a simple firmware update?

Petition Campaign For Firmware

There was such an outcry that an online petition was created to hopefully force the hand of OM System to release this firmware. It apparently worked since OM System announced that a firmware update for the original OM-1 is coming this fall. Some advancements in the OM-1 Mark ll will be available in the new firmware update. Some will not due to a need for updated hardware. Either way, the OM-1 will get a fairly substantial update, and those who need more will have the OM-1 Mark ll.

OM-1 Holding Its Value

Another interesting piece of information is how much the original OM-1 is selling on the used market. I was amazed to see that camera going for as much as $1699.00 on the MPB website.

In contrast, the Lumix G9 is selling for $599.00, almost three times less than the OM-1. Wow, that’s one whale of a difference. It bodes well for those who plan to update to the new OM-1 Mark ll.

Conclusion

Overall, I think it’s positive that OM System offered this firmware update to the original OM-1 users. It’s not exactly what you will get with the OM-1 Mark ll, but it does add enough new features to make it worthwhile. I’m replacing two of my three OM-1s with the OM-1 Mark ll. And I’ll be sure to download the newest firmware update for the one remaining OM-1 I have left in my bag.