Canon EOS R Firmware update brings Sony-like Eye-AF

I guess Eye-AF is the future. Following Sony’s and Nikon’s Eye-AF releases, Canon could not afford to be left behind. So, Canon is releasing their own firmware for the Canon EOS-R which mainly includes a new eye-AF functionality.

While Canon HK published the news about two weeks ago, the actual update became available via Canon Canada only now.

Canon says that

In the new firmware version 1.2.0, “Eye-detection AF” function will be available in “Servo AF” or “Movie Servo AF” settings. This function helps to track and ensure subject’s eye is continuously in focus during photo and video shooting. When EOS R is used with large aperture lenses, such as RF 50mm f/1.2L USM in a move or to shoot a moving subject, “Eye-detection AF” function will be able to keep the subject’s eye in focus for a crispy clear portrait shot.

There are also some other features and fixes included in this 1.2.0 release for the EOS R :

Eye-detection AF [new]

• Supports Servo AF when shooting still images.
• Now available when shooting movies regardless of “Movie Servo AF” setting.

Small AF Frame Size [new]

• Supports Servo AF when shooting still images.
• Now available when shooting movies regardless of “Movie Servo AF” setting.

[fixes]

• Under certain conditions the electronic level displayed in the electronic viewfinder did not display properly.
• Under certain conditions information displayed in the electronic viewfinder was not properly rotated.
• Under certain conditions updating the firmware for the wireless file transmitter WFT-E7 was not possible.

This firmware update is for cameras equipped with firmware up to Version 1.1.0. If the camera’s firmware is already Version 1.2.0, this update is unnecessary. When updating the firmware of your camera, please first review the instructions thoroughly before you download the firmware.

The firmware update takes approximately 6 minutes.

Caution:
The user guide has been revised to reflect the functional improvements to the product. Please download the latest version of the user guide together with the new firmware. The latest version of the user guide can be downloaded from Canon’s Web site.

Now, we need a comparison of all three major brands eye-AF!

[Canon EOS-R firmware 1.2.0]