July 23, 2007 – Amid reports that Canon's EOS-1D Mark III has auto focus problems, the manufacturer recently announced it will release a firmware update by the end of July. The firmware, EOS -1D Mark III version 1.0.9, promises to improve AI Servo AF performance, perceived sharpness in images viewed on the LCD, main dial errors, and correct language errors.
Version 1.0.9 includes a stronger sharpness setting on the LCD monitor when images are enlarged. The new software also addresses auto focus. It “reduces the tendency of the camera to auto focus on high-contrast backgrounds when shooting in conditions where AF detection is difficult, such as when the main subject is not completely covered by the AF frames or if the main subject's contrast is low,” stated the release.
In addition, the new Mark III firmware fixes bugs in the Main Dial, Quick Control, and Vertical-grip Main Dial in which images did not respond when rotated. The software also corrects language errors in Italian and Simplified Chinese menus.
Although the download will not be available until the end of the month, Mark III owners can ship their cameras to the Canon Factory Service Centers in Jamesburg, N.J. and Irvine, Calif. to have the firmware installed. Shipping for early firmware installation will be at the customers’ own expense. The downloadable version will be free for Mark III customers. For additional support, customers can contact the Canon Customer Support Center at carecenter@cits.canon.com.
