Sony has announced its firmware update roadmap for the BURANO camera, detailing the release of Version 1.1 and Version 2.0 over the next year.
These updates will introduce various new features and enhancements based on user feedback.
BURANO Version 1.1: Expected Release in Late June 2024
Version 1.1 is slated for release in late June 2024. This update will focus on live event production and enhanced monitoring capabilities. Key features include:
- Enhanced Monitoring and Remote Control: The update will introduce remote control options and multi-camera monitoring via the updated Monitor & Control app. Users will have access to remote control features for exposure, white balance, paint, and other settings depending on the RCP model.
- S700 Protocol over Ethernet: This feature enables remote control of the BURANO camera using an RCP (remote control panel).
- Multi Matrix Area Indication: Users can adjust targeted colors during Multi Matrix operation.
- Monitor & Control App Support: Version 1.1 will support Sony’s Monitor & Control app version 2.0.0, enabling multi-camera monitoring for iPadOS, including feeds from up to four cameras, exposure monitoring (waveform, histogram, false color, and zebra), focus control, and other frequently used functions similar to Sony’s CineAlta cameras.
BURANO Version 2.0: Expected Release in March 2025 or Later
Version 2.0 is planned for release in March 2025 or later. This update will include numerous new features and improvements requested by the user community:
- New Recording Formats: The update will introduce new recording formats, including a 3.8K Full Frame crop capable of shooting up to 120 fps and 24.00 fps to X-OCN 16:9.
- 1.8x De-Squeeze Setting: Version 2.0 will add a 1.8x de-squeeze setting.
- High Frame Rate Modes: Additional high frame rate (S & Q) modes will be included, such as 66, 72, 75, 88, 90, 96, and 110 fps.
- Monitoring Improvements: Standardized SDI video output for monitoring across X-OCN and XAVC will be included, along with an improved on-screen display that places camera status information outside of the image.
- View Finder Gamma Display Assist: This feature will be added for S-Log3 monitoring.
- Exposure Tools: New exposure tools, including High/Low Key settings derived from the VENICE camera system, will be introduced.
- Expanded White Balance Presets: White balance memory presets will expand from 3 to 8.
- Image Stabilization: Active/High Image Stabilization will be supported in Full-Frame 6K and Super 35 1.9K 16:9 imager modes.
- Breathing Compensation and Metadata: The update will add breathing compensation and image stabilization metadata in X-OCN.
While some users might find it frustrating to wait a year for features like a 1.8x de-squeeze setting and View Finder Gamma Display Assist, Sony has a history of providing incremental firmware updates over many years, as seen with the F3, FS7, F5, F55, and VENICE cameras.