Nikon confirms ZR Firmware V2.00 for 2026 and details NIKKOR Z CINEMA VV lens family

# What Nikon announced

Nikon has officially confirmed two parallel development tracks: a firmware update for the Nikon ZR and a new cinema lens family under the NIKKOR Z CINEMA name. Firmware version V2.00 is slated to arrive by the end of 2026. The NIKKOR Z CINEMA series will initially consist of nine full-frame Vista Vision lenses rated at T1.9. Nikon provided feature lists and some technical highlights, but left out release dates for the lenses and pricing information.

# Firmware V2.00 — specific additions

The V2.00 update targets recording workflow and monitoring features relevant to filmmakers who use H.265 and RED-based formats. Nikon confirmed the following items for the 2026 firmware:

• H.265 recording will gain Log3G10 gamma and REDWideGamutRGB color space support, allowing Log-grade capture in a smaller H.265 file.
• A selectable High-ISO noise reduction option will be available when recording H.265 Log, similar to behavior already found on the Nikon Z6III.
• Focus peaking will work while recording in R3D NE format, improving manual-focus confirmation when shooting RED NE.

Nikon also stated additional items are included in the update but did not publish a full changelog.

# Planned 2027 features

Two significant workflow features are planned for delivery after V2.00, in 2027: Open Gate recording and anamorphic de-squeeze. Nikon did not provide precise timing for those features beyond the year target.

# Gaps users are watching

The announcement does not address several frequently requested items. The article highlights that users continue to ask for:

• Improvements to Nikon's current H.265 implementation, which some users find heavily processed.
• Native true 24 fps and RED-like false color as monitoring aids.

Nikon's statement that "much more" will be packed into the update raises expectations but leaves specifics unconfirmed.

# NIKKOR Z CINEMA lenses — what we know

Nikon confirmed development of a NIKKOR Z CINEMA lineup containing nine focal lengths. Key technical points:

• The lenses are Vista Vision (VV) coverage, making them suitable for larger sensors such as V-RAPTOR and other full-frame formats.
• Rated at T1.9.
• Cinema-standard mechanics: 0.8 MOD focus and iris gears, and a de-clickable aperture accessible via a switch.
• Hybrid design that allows either manual operation or high-precision autofocus.

Nikon did not announce pricing, availability, or specific focal lengths in this release.

# Interoperability and third-party support

RED is developing an update to its RED Control app to add Nikon ZR support. CineD's coverage notes the RED Control app is regarded as a strong camera-control tool, and RED's support should improve third-party control options for ZR users.

# Immediate implications for ZR owners

If you shoot with the ZR and use H.265 or RED workflows, expect smaller H.265 Log files with wider color latitude once V2.00 is out. Focus peaking in R3D NE will help with manual focus in RED workflows. If you need Open Gate or in-camera anamorphic de-squeeze, you'll need to wait into 2027. The lens family announcement signals Nikon's intent to build a native cinema lens ecosystem for Z mount, but concrete buying decisions will require lens pricing and delivery schedules that Nikon has not yet provided.