1DMKIII New Firmware

Looks like Canon is prepping a new firmware for the 1DMKIII and 1DsMKIII to be launched tomorrow (30APR08).

This one seems more legit than any rumor I’ve heard lately, and has been in the works for several months.  Over at fredmiranda.com, user Colin Key has posted a dealer email from the UK briefly outlining the new firmware. Another user at DPReview.com claims Canon notified the U.S. Navy about the firmware a few days ago.

A few threads on different forums, all reporting the same info:

• DPReview.com – Canon 1DMkIII update
• FredMiranda.com – 1D3 new firmware end of April?
• Quesabesde.com – Another Canon firmware (en espanol, translated by google)

I’ve been favoring my MKIII over my 5D a lot lately, and it doesn’t seem to have any focusing issues for me, but any fix, update or enhancements are always welcome. I still have my fingers crossed.

*******************UPDATE 10:59PM 4/29/2008********************

Canon has released firmware v1.2.3 for the EOS-1D Mark III and v1.1.2 for the EOS-1Ds Mark III

This firmware update (Version 1.2.3 – 1DMkIII) incorporates the following improvements:

1. Includes the following new features that were frequently requested by customers to the new firmware.

   1. Direct selection of AF points by the Multi-controller is added to C.Fn III-9.
   2. Alternate access to Exposure compensation is added to C.Fn IV-3.
   3. With the camera’s External Speedlite control menu, Flash function settings can be used to set the Wireless setting and Zoom.

2. Improves the stability of AF accuracy in AI servo AF when shooting extremely low-contrast subjects.

I’ve just downloaded and installed it – everything looks to be working correctly so far… There will be days of testing ahead!