How to Update the Firmware in Your Nikon Digital Camera

What is firmware?

Firmware is the embedded software that a device such as a digital camera uses to control certain hardware functionality. Sound confusing? It really isn’t. It’s what helps a piece of hardware run. Cameras have firmware, as do computers and all sorts of consumer electronics devices.

Manufacturers design products with the intention that there will be regular firmware updates. Updates to firmware can fix problems like bugs or provide users with added functionality and features or advanced compatibility with other products like lenses or new media card formats.

Why should you update the firmware in the camera?

If your camera offers a firmware update it’s usually a good idea to take advantage of it.

For example, when the Nikon Z 6 and Z 7 were announced, they shipped with a certain firmware version. Later, the engineers were able to add new features. If you bought one of the cameras new at that time, it shipped with the firmware updated. But, if you had purchased a Z 6 or Z 7 early on, you would need to update the firmware to take advantage of the newer features.

Z 6/Z 7 firmware version 2 added Eye Detection Autofocus functionality as well as some other features. Firmware version 3 for the Z 6/Z 7 added Animal AF Detection.

How do you update the firmware in the camera?

We’ve put together a video showing exactly how to go about updating the firmware on your Nikon camera—from checking the current firmware version, to downloading a new version on the computer and copying it to a media card for uploading to your camera. Updating your camera’s firmware is relatively simple and takes only a few steps.

Watch the video below to learn how to update your camera’s firmware, and enjoy the new features and functionality that will add to the enjoyment of your gear for years to come.

Learn which firmware updates are available for Nikon Z series cameras.

Learn about all Nikon firmware updates.