Vehicle AF Coming To Canon EOS R5 and R6 With Next Firmware Update
It seems that Canon might add a new autofocus mode to the Canon EOS R5 and EOS R6 through a firmware update.
Canon latest press release tells the company will release a firmware update for the EOS R5 and EOS R6. Besides receiving updates to eye and face detection AF, both cameras will also get “vehicle AF”. Both cameras will also get “SMOOTH EVF”, a special mode for when you are shooting in dark settings. The firmware update is expected for the end of November or the beginning of December. All new features coming with the firmware update are described below.
Canon press release:
Canon brings the precision and simplicity of the EOS R3 to its range of professional cameras
London, United Kingdom, 16ᵗʰ November 2021 – Canon Europe today announces firmware updates for the EOS R5 (firmware v1.50), EOS R6 (firmware v1.50) and EOS-1D X Mark III (firmware v1.60). Following the recent launch of the EOS R3, a powerhouse for sport and reportage photography, Canon bolsters its professional range of cameras with enhanced detection, seamless file transfer and optimized support for lenses.
Unrivalled detection for subject tracking
Across both the EOS R5 and EOS R6, this update delivers enhanced recognition of subjects. Users of these cameras are now able to select “vehicles” as the main subject. Inheriting this abilty from the EOS R3, the cameras can track racing cars and bikes. The update also enhances the overall AF tracking of people, with improved eye and face detection even when the subject is wearing a mask, as well as adding body detection. Strengthening detection within the EOS-1D X Mark III for winter sports, the firmware provides improved head detection for subjects wearing goggles and helmets.
Simplified operation for streamlined workflows
For professional photographers, their camera needs to operate as an extension of them, with seamless and intuitive functionality to help them capture the shot. This upgrade gives EOS R5 and EOS R6 owners the ability to set a custom white balance in Live View, streamlining manual white balance control. Across all models, the firmware ensures that photographers aren’t able to mistakenly transfer files by pressing the multi-controller when “Transfer with SET” is set for FTP transfer. Previously, the EOS-1D X Mark III employed separate buttons for voice memo and image rating, but with newly added settings users can use one button to do both functions simultaneously.
Enhanced support for lenses
As the RF lens range continues to grow, photographers are able to unlock new possibilities with their cameras. Thanks to this latest update, the EOS R5 is now compatible with Canon’s EOS VR SYSTEM and the RF 5.2mm F2.8L DUAL FISHEYE lens, enabling content creators to easily capture immersive footage for virtual reality. The update also offers full-time manual support for the RF 70-200mm F4L IS USM¹, even if AF is selected.
Firmware update summary:
| No. | Update | EOS R5 | EOS R6 | EOS-1D X Mark III |
| 1 | Change the settings for “simultaneous recording” and “current drive” during remote operation | X | X | X |
| 2 | Disable the multi-controller for FTP transfer | X | X | X |
| 3 | Change the default from Active to Passive with the FTP Server Passive Mode Setting | X | X | X |
| 4 | Enhanced recognition of subjects, including vehicle and body detection | X | X | |
| 5 | Improved Face/ Eye Detection with masks | X | X | |
| 6 | Added White Capture Mode in Live View (Manual White Balance) | X | X | |
| 7 | Added EVF Smooth to suppress lower frame rates in low light | X | X | |
| 8 | Full-time manual focus support for RF 70-200 mm F4L IS USM | X | X | |
| 9 | RF 5.2mm F2.8L DUAL FISHEYE support | X | ||
| 10 | Added settings to enable image rating and voice memo to be set at the same time | X | ||
| 11 | Change the Default Power Saving Settings for FTP Transfers from “use” to “not use” | X | ||
| 12 | Enhanced Head Detection for winter sports athletes wearing goggles | X |
