The Leica Q3 just got better! Firmware version 3.0.0 has been released, bringing exciting new features and improvements that make this already incredible camera even more powerful and versatile. Here’s a full breakdown of everything this update offers and why you should install it today.
New Features: USB Audio Support
One of the most notable additions in this update is USB audio support. Leica now supports popular RØDE microphones, including:
• VideoMic GO II
• VideoMic NTG
• Wireless GO II
• Wireless ME
It also works seamlessly with other compatible USB microphones. This is great news for content creators, vloggers, and anyone who records audio while shooting. With this feature, you can now capture high-quality sound directly from your Leica Q3 without needing extra adapters or complicated setups.
Performance Improvements
The firmware 3.0.0 update includes several performance enhancements designed to make your shooting experience smoother and more efficient.
• Capture Mode: The blackout time between shots has been reduced from 310 milliseconds to just 250 milliseconds. This means faster, more seamless shooting for both single and continuous shots.
• Continuous Shooting: The delay for 15 frames per second mode has been reduced by 700 milliseconds, improving performance for action shots and fast-moving subjects.
These updates ensure that your camera feels more responsive, especially when capturing high-speed scenes.
Autofocus Enhancements
The autofocus system on the Leica Q3 has also been upgraded:
• It’s now faster and more reliable, with improved tracking performance.
• The AF/AE-Lock feature is now permanent until you manually deactivate it or adjust the focus area. This small yet significant change adds convenience for photographers who rely on this feature for precision shooting.
Custom AF Field Size and SD Card Integration
A notable quality-of-life improvement: your custom AF field size settings are now saved directly to your user profile on the SD card or the camera memory. No more losing your settings when switching cards or profiles!
Leica FOTOS App Connectivity Fixes
The update also brings important fixes for the Leica FOTOS app:
• You can now connect your camera to the app even if another smartphone is already paired via Wi-Fi.
• For manual focus users, the app now works seamlessly even when the focus ring is set to manual focus (MF).
These improvements make the Leica FOTOS app more reliable and user-friendly, giving you greater control over your camera remotely.
Additional Features
• Exif 3.0 Support: The update now supports Exif 3.0 and the latest GPS version 2.4.0.0, making it easier to organize and manage your image metadata.
• Factory USB Mode Update: The factory USB mode setting has been updated to make connections more straightforward and reliable.
Why You Should Update
Firmware 3.0.0 for the Leica Q3 brings a host of improvements that make the camera faster, more versatile, and easier to use. Whether you’re a street photographer, vlogger, or simply someone who loves shooting with the Q3, these updates are designed to elevate your experience.
Head over to Leica’s official website to download the update. The process is quick and easy, and you’ll get access to all the new features immediately.
Conclusion
With firmware version 3.0.0, Leica continues to show its dedication to improving its cameras and supporting its users. The new USB audio support, enhanced autofocus, and faster performance make the Q3 an even stronger tool for photographers and creators alike.
Have you tried the new firmware yet? Let me know what you think about these updates in the comments. And if you haven’t updated yet, now is the perfect time!
Keep shooting, keep creating, and enjoy exploring the full potential of your Leica Q3.