New firmware that improves the XF200’s and XF205’s noise ratio in low
light and enables live streaming of content over IP networks is being released
by Canon. It is also claimed to enhance the camera’s standard of performance
and recording modes.
The first firmware update, available now for the XF200 and XF205, enables a new image
quality setting that should reduce noise in the picture, even in low light.
Users can choose their preferred image quality based on their shooting
requirements, selecting from the current default setting, which prioritises resolution,
or a new setting that gives priority to reducing noise.
Live streaming
A further update, available late June 2015, will enable the XF200 and XF205 to stream video over IP networks. This will allow users to transfer live
footage to news programmes and video-sharing websites. The new firmware will also
allow it to work with Fujitsu video transmission equipment – the Fujitsu
Network IP-900IID and IP-920D HD/SD Compact Video Decoders – as well as software supporting IP
streaming.
The firmware enabling IP streaming will support 1280x720 video
at 29.97p and 25p (both at 9Mbps or 4Mbps) and 640x360 video at at 29.97p and
25p (at 1.5Mbps).
Enhanced functionality
Besides streaming, the new firmware will also enable two new
recording features:
Firstly, when recording in MP4 format, users will be able to
use slow and fast motion recording – slowing down action by up to 40%, or speed
up video by up to 250%.
Secondly, when choosing WiFi settings on the XF205, the
selection menu will offer an improved user interface, to make it more intuitive
and easy to understand.