Enhanced raw performance The RAW buffer is now extended to a maximum of 25 RAW files or 130 JPEGs (was 15 RAW or 126 JPEG).
In-camera editing Photographers can now process their RAW files and correct artefacts such as peripheral illumination, distortion and chromatic aberration in-camera. Additionally, adjustments to white balance, sharpness and Picture Style, as well as a host of other parameters, can be made immediately after shooting, with the results saved as new JPEG files. JPEGs can be resized without the need for a PC or Mac.
Image rating Photographers can now filter large volumes of pictures on their way back from a shoot using an image rating facility. Image rating data is stored in each files metadata, which can be read by a range of editing applications, including Canon Digital Photo Professional, Apple Aperture, Adobe Lightroom and Adobe Bridge.
Extra control in stills and movies A newly-added control of Auto ISO enables photographers to limit the maximum ISO speed to any point within the native ISO 400-6,400 range.
Improved audio functionality Users can complement the cameras Full HD (1920x1080p) movie footage with 16-bit digital stereo sound, sampled at broadcast-quality 48KHz. A new manual control of audio levels allows users to choose from 64 sound levels. A digital wind-cut filter also reduces noise made by movement of air around the microphone, ensuring sound is clear and free from peripheral interference.
GPS compatibility Firmware v2 also provides added capacity for users to track the location of their images with new support for the GPS Receiver GP-E2 Canons latest high-performance GPS unit. The GP-E2 is attached securely to the hotshoe and connected to the camera via a cable. It allows EOS 7D users to geo-tag photos with longitude, latitude and altitude data as well as the direction in which the shot was taken adding the information to the EXIF file of the image. A GPS Logger tracks movements by downloading GPS data at regular intervals, and compatibility with Google Maps means users can view their route in Canons free Map Utility software.
Other feature updates include
• Time zone settings
• Faster scrolling of magnified images
• Quick control screen during playback
Version 2 firmware for the EOS 7D will be available to download from August 2012.