Panasonic releases LUMIX DC-GH5 firmware 2.0 with a slew of new features and improvements.

The wait is finally over. We announced last month that Panasonic has updated the GH5 to include 4:2:2 10-bit ALL-Intra 400 Mbps to 4K and full HD video recording modes, and the new firmware is now available.

In NTSC, you'll now see options for 4096 x 2160 (24p) and 3840 x 2160 (30p, 24p), PAL 3840 x 2160 (25p) and CINEMA 4096 x 2160 (24p) and 3840 x 2160 (24p). To take full advantage of the ALL-Intra video you must use an SD memory card with a Video Speed Class 60 or higher. Panasonic has confirmed operation with a Video Speed Class 90 rated memory card.

Credit: Panasonic

4K HDR Video Recording

Both HDR (High Dynamic Range) and HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma) have been added to the GH5. The camera records video with a designated gamma curve compatible with ITU-R BT.2100. While you can choose HLG, the GH5 monitor is not capable of showing images in HLG. If you're using an external monitor or recorder for HDR images, HLG View Assist will convert the images to display them. Additionally, 4K HEVC has been added for HLG.

Anamorphic

With firmware version 1.1, Panasonic added 4:2:2 10-bit video recording to anamorphic (4:3) mode. Now with 2.0, a high-resolution anamorphic mode has been added to enable video recording in 18-mega effective pixels. This new mode can be recorded in HEVC /H.265 with an aspect ratio suited for an anamorphic lens,4:3. The effective picture size for this mode is equivalent to the number of pixels produced by 6K (approx 6000h x 3000v pixels). During playback, you will need gear that supports HEVC /H.265.

Credit: Panasonic

Improved Autofocus

Panasonic has improved autofocus performance for subjects with low contrast in photo shooting and the tracking autofocus in video recording. Now the customized AF area can be continuously displayed in Multi AF and Custom Multi AF during live-view. Additionally, the start point of AF lock can be set on the live view screen in advance in AF Tracking.

Enhanced Image Stabilizer

I.S. Lock video has been added to compensate for handshake when the viewing angle is fixed. A new handshake correction mode has been added to provide optimum correction when using 2.0x and 1.33x anamorphic lens as well.

Other Fixes

Improved timelapse shooting

Improved Power Save LVF

The Bluetooth Remote Control function can be used with Image App

A rating function using a Fn button is available in Playback Zoom and Multi Playback

The DISP.Button can be locked

Many others

In addition to the GH5 receiving an update, the DMC-GH4 got a lift to version 2.7 to fix a Variable Frame Rate issue while using image stabilization. You can download the GH5 firmware here.