New 3.0 firmware update for the Sony A1II adds a ton of new features!

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Sony issued a big update for the Sony A1II: sony.com/electronics/support/e-mount-body-ilce-1-series/ilce-1m2/software/00349486. Let me know what you think about those improvements:

Benefits and Improvements

  • Adapts the display layout of shooting information for both horizontal and vertical viewing
  • Allows you to select whether to change the Shooting Mode, Drive Mode, and Focus Mode using the dial or through the menu
  • Allows simultaneous deleting and rating of images recorded on both Memory Card Slot 1 and Slot 2
  • Allows the display of folder names and file names during playback
  • Allows you to add OK/NG/KEEP flags to clips during or after movie recording
  • Allows you to cancel the scheduled transfer of selected images during FTP transfer
  • Adds support for the following Transfer & Tagging settings:
    • A setting to automatically schedule FTP transfer of protected still images from FTP Import
    • A setting to automatically schedule FTP transfer of protected still images and videos from FTP Upload Preset
    • A setting to automatically protect still images transferred via FTP from FTP Upload Preset
      • Ver. 2.3.0 or later of the Transfer & Tagging setting is necessary for Android, and Ver. 2.3.1 or later is necessary for iOS.
        The Transfer & Tagging setting may not be available in some countries or regions
  • Supports the following Monitor & Control app functions:
    • Focus map display
    • IRIS operation bar display
      • Ver. 2.3.0 or later of the Monitor & Control app is necessary.
        The Monitor & Control app may not be available in some countries or regions
  • Supports Scan and Tag, Photo Cropping, and Volume Photography Commands under the Volume Photography License
    • Installation of a paid license is required for use.
    • The provision of the license is scheduled to begin after August 2025.
    • Services may not be available in some countries or regions.
  • Updates the display of the shooting date and time to the user date and time (The built-in clock of the camera) instead of the server date and time when viewing images captured with the Write Digital Signature function set to On in the Camera Authenticity Solution
    • Installation of a paid license is required for use.
    • The timing for the provision of paid licenses to customers other than certain media outlets is yet to be determined.
    • Services may not be available in some countries or regions. For more information, please visit the Authenticity Catalog Page.
  • WPA and WEP functionalities are no longer supported. You will no longer be able to select WPA or WEP when connecting to Wi-Fi. Please use the more secure WPA2 or WPA3 security setting moving forward
  • Improves the operational stability of the camera

Note: Please refer to the Help Guide for details on all updated functions.

Sony financial statement hints at New Tri-Layer Sensor!

On June 13th, Sony held a “Fireside Chat” for investors and they shared updated presentations. One aspect that is particularly interesting is the talk about the new 3-Layer sensor. This tech will allow to improve all aspects like sensitivity and speed. 

Sony is clearly pushing the boundaries because it sees great potential in the automotive sector. This is also good news for us photographers. We can expect these innovations to find their way into future Sony Alpha cameras!

I run the document through ChatGPT and this is the summary I got:

Based on Sony’s Imaging & Sensing Solutions (I&SS) business presentation (June 2025), here’s a clear picture of the future of Sony’s camera business:

1. Strong Commitment to Image Sensors—Including Cameras

  • Image sensors remain core to Sony’s strategy across mobile, automotive, industrial, and camera segments.

  • Sony expects a 9% CAGR growth in the camera-related sensor market through FY2030, indicating continued investment in this space .

2. Interchangeable-Lens Cameras (ILCs) Remain a Key Focus

  • Sony highlights technological evolution in ILCs, including:

    • Global shutter full-frame sensors

    • High-speed readout

    • Low-noise performance

    • Improved power efficiency

  • These innovations directly target both photography and professional video creators .

3. Video Is the New Growth Engine

  • Emphasis on real-time performance and video quality across all markets: mobile, automotive, and especially ILCs.

  • The line between photo and video use cases is blurring—Sony’s focus is on hybrid performance (stills + video), a core strength of Alpha and FX cameras .

4. Next-Gen Sensor Tech Driving Differentiation

  • Sony is pushing multi-layered sensor stacking and advanced process nodes to improve:

    • Sensitivity

    • Dynamic range

    • Power efficiency

    • Readout speed

  • These are directly applicable to future Alpha and FX camera models .

5. Continued Innovation Expected Despite User Criticism

  • The FX2 launch (referenced indirectly) reflects Sony’s desire to fill hybrid pro niches, even if it leads to divisive models.

  • Sony acknowledges feedback and is accelerating firmware and UI standardization across cameras.

6. Financials Show Strong Support

  • FY24 saw record-high sales and income in the I&SS segment.

  • Sony plans nearly ¥930 billion in capital expenditure (2024–2026), with ~50% targeting advanced image sensor processes .

Conclusion: Sony Camera Business Outlook

  • Sony is doubling down on sensors and hybrid video performance, especially for full-frame and mobile.

  • They are not exiting or scaling down—they’re innovating, though not always with the direction expected by enthusiasts.

  • Expect future Sony cameras to be video-centric, sensor-driven, and powered by cutting-edge image processing.

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I have no doubt that on a sensor level future Sony Alpha Cameras will show us some new exciting tech. Let’s just hope this starts with the new Sony A7V that is expected to be announced in late 2025.

Sony Tidbits…


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