Sony A7II to get E-M5II-like high-resolution mode via firmware update

Sony might be working on a way to add a 48-megapixel high-resolution mode to the A7II full-frame mirrorless camera via a future firmware update.

The first generation of Sony FE-mount cameras includes models such as the A7, A7R, and A7S. The company has already released the first model of the second generation which consists of the A7II, whereas the A7RII is expected to be announced within the next few weeks.

Photographers who have purchased the Sony A7II may be in for an unexpected treat in the near future. According to the rumor mill, the PlayStation manufacturer may soon release a firmware update for the mirrorless camera which could include a high-resolution mode allowing photographers to capture photos at 48.9 megapixels.

Sony A7II will allegedly get a firmware update soon, one that might include a high-resolution mode, similar to the one available in the Olympus E-M5 Mark II.

Sony testing 48.9-megapixel mode on the A7II

According to the rumor mill, an upcoming firmware update for the Sony A7II will bring an interesting feature to the camera. Using the 5-axis IBIS technology, the mirrorless camera will be able to capture higher-resolution photos, just like the Olympus E-M5 Mark II.

The recently-released Micro Four Thirds camera can shift its sensor in order to capture 40-megapixel photos when used on a tripod. The system in the Sony A7II would work in a similar fashion and it would take 48.9-megapixel photographs.

Users will still have to use a tripod and images will look better if the subjects are motionless. Nevertheless, it is a really cool feature and landscape photographers will definitely appreciate it.

The source has not revealed when the firmware update is due to be released. It appears that Sony is simply testing this mode on its FE-mount camera, which means that the company may decide to never push it to existing customers. Either way, stay tuned for more information!

About the Sony A7II mirrorless camera

Sony launched the A7II in November 2014 as a successor to the A7. When compared to its predecessor, the A7II comes packed with a similar 24-megapixel sensor, but one that features a 5-axis image stabilization system, providing about 4.5 stops of stabilization.

The newer FE-mount mirrorless camera employs a similar autofocus system, but with an improved software that allows the A7II to focus about 30% faster than the A7. Additionally, the shooter comes with S-Log2 and XAVC S codec support for wider dynamic range and 50Mbps bitrate in full HD video recording mode, respectively.

The list of changes is completed by an improved design that contains a larger grip, better shutter button placement, and strengthened lens mount.

Source: SonyAlphaRumors.