At BSC Expo 2026, Sony is presenting working demonstrations of upcoming firmware updates for VENICE 2, BURANO, FX6, and FR7. The cameras are shown running beta versions of their next major updates, giving filmmakers a close look at how new tools, controls, and workflows will function in real production environments. For cinematographers and camera crews, this is significant news. These firmware updates focus on practical shooting improvements, expanded sensor modes, and deeper integration with live and virtual production workflows.
VENICE 2 V4.1 brings metadata awareness and refined exposure monitoring
On the show floor, VENICE 2 is demonstrated with firmware V4.1, expected to ship in February 2026. The update adds moiré alert maximum level recording directly into metadata, allowing image integrity information to travel with the footage into post-production. For narrative and commercial projects, this provides valuable context during dailies review, QC, and VFX. Sony is also showing improvements to the VENICE Extension System Mini, including stored horizontal adjustment values for more consistent rig alignment. A redesigned EL Zone System screen refines exposure feedback, maintaining a familiar monitoring approach while improving readability. Further firmware updates for VENICE 2 are planned beyond this release.
BURANO V3.0 expands sensor modes and live production control
At BSC Expo, BURANO is shown running firmware V3.0, scheduled for May 2026. The update introduces new imager scan modes that broaden BURANO’s shooting options across different production types. Demonstrated formats include: FF 5.8K 6:5 for full frame anamorphic lenses, S35c 3.8K 16:9 up to 120p. These additions provide more flexibility for documentary, sports, and live event work, while preserving the camera’s cinematic characteristics. Sony is also demonstrating S700P command compatibility, enabling remote control over frame rate, shutter, and saturation. This enhances BURANO’s integration into multi-camera and live production setups. Additional refinements include improved color peaking visibility and HLG Mild support in custom shooting modes.
FX6 V6.0 highlights faster operation and expanded recording options
Sony is previewing firmware V6.0 for FX6, expected in March 2026. A key feature demonstrated is the BIG6 interface, which presents frame rate, ISO, shutter, iris or ND, look, and white balance in a single consolidated view. This simplifies on set operation, particularly for solo operators and small crews. The updated firmware also introduces a refreshed shooting interface with black borders, Blackmagic RAW output over HDMI, and the ability to store Paint and Look together in one scene file for easier sharing between cameras and productions. HLG Mild support in custom shooting modes is also part of the update.
FR7 V4.0 demonstrates virtual production tracking integration
For virtual production workflows, Sony is demonstrating firmware V4.0 on the FR7, expected in February 2026. The update adds support for OpenTrackIO, a new SMPTE standard for camera tracking data. At the show, FR7 is shown transmitting timecode, lens metadata, and full 6DoF positional information directly into Unreal Engine over a single Ethernet connection, without requiring third-party plugins. This enables tighter synchronization between physical camera movement and virtual environments on set.
Wrapping up
Seeing these firmware updates demonstrated at BSC Expo 2026 gives filmmakers a clear sense of how upcoming tools will support real-world production. Across VENICE 2, BURANO, FX6, and FR7, the focus is on operational efficiency, expanded shooting formats, and deeper integration with modern production workflows. For crews planning projects in 2026 and beyond, these demonstrations offer an early look at capabilities that will soon be available across Sony’s cinema camera lineup.
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