Samsung has a released a firmware update for its NX500 mirrorless camera that contains�some significant improvements related to autofocus and video.

The manufacturer�says that autofocus performance has been improved across the board: in low light, face detection, and movie mode. A new Zone AF mode has been added, and there are now five�AF area sizes to choose from. The face detection area of the sensor has also been enlarged.

On the video front Samsung has added a new ‘Pro’ mode�that increases the bit rate for 4K video up to 70Mbps and lengthens maximum recording time to 25 minutes. The NX500�will now read out a larger area of the sensor, which the company says will improve 1080/60p video quality. The firmware also�gives users�more precise 4K still image�capture (now with embedded EXIF data) and allows users to adjust the sensitivity of the manual focus ring when�recording video.

The firmware update is now available and can be downloaded via Wi-Fi on the camera or with Samsung’s iLauncher software.

Press release:

Still Photo Enhancements:

  • Improvements to the overall Auto Focus:
  • Enhanced AF performance in low light condition
  • Enhanced AF performance in backlit and spot light
  • Enhanced AF performance in the corners when utilizing 16-50mm PZ lens
  • Enhanced Face Detection AF performance
  • Enhanced AF performance in movie mode
  • Added �Zone AF� mode
  • Increased the size of AF to 5 steps in AF �Area Size�
  • Increased the Face Detection Area of the sensor
  • Includes 4 most popular Pro Suggest presets (Cinematic, Memories, Gorgeous night, & High Speed)
  • Added �Selfie as Flipped� mode
    • The image is flipped to capture as in the preview.
  • Improved �Selfie� AF function in Timer mode
  • Continuous AF is default in �Selfie Timer.”
  • Simplified EXIF data preview

    • Video Recording Enhancements:

    • Added “Pro” mode in movie quality and increased the bit rates for movie size and quality (up to 70Mbps)
    • Movie Recording Time changed to 25 minutes at FHD 60P/50P
  • Larger sensor read out data size with improved FHD quality up to 60P
  • Remains in Stand By mode after recording
  • “1280×720 (120P)” setting in the Movie Size Menu for easy access
    • Sound recording is available
  • Capture individual 4K frame forward & backward with precision
    • Embedded EXIF data in jpeg
  • Added NEW MF Responsiveness mode
    • Capable of setting to Low, Medium, High focus angle in manual focus mode