Nikon ZR Update: Open Gate & Anamorphic Desqueeze Confirmed

Firmware 2.00 Brings Compact RED Workflows in 2026

Scheduled for release during 2026, firmware version 2.00 aims to bridge the gap between heavy RAW acquisition and efficient everyday shooting. According to Nikon, the upcoming update will introduce support for Log3G10 and REDWideGamutRGB when recording in the H.265 format. The company notes that this combination is intended to provide smaller file sizes while retaining substantial latitude for color grading. For productions where the data rates of RAW are unnecessary, this integration makes RED’s color science much easier to deploy.

Additionally, version 2.00 addresses fine-tuned image rendering by adding an option to control High ISO Noise Reduction during H.265 Log recording. Filmmakers will no longer rely solely on a fixed noise reduction implementation, giving them direct control over how the camera processes high-sensitivity footage. Nikon also confirmed the addition of focus peaking during R3D NE recording, supplying manual-focus shooters with much-needed precision when working with cinema or adapted lenses.

Open Gate and Anamorphic Monitoring Targeted for 2027

While version 2.00 handles workflow efficiencies, the longer-term roadmap tackles features filmmakers have demanded since the camera’s October 2025 launch. Nikon announced that it is developing Open Gate recording and in-camera anamorphic desqueeze monitoring for a subsequent firmware release planned for 2027. Open Gate acquisition utilizes a significantly larger portion of the sensor rather than a conventional 16:9 or 17:9 crop, providing immense flexibility in post-production for reframing, stabilization, and multiple delivery formats.

Paired with anamorphic desqueeze display, these tools turn the ZR into a more formidable cinema platform. However, outlets like PetaPixel point out that users may want to temper expectations, as Nikon is framing these additions as a “goal” to implement by 2027 without tying down an exact delivery date. Despite the cautious wording, industry observers note that Nikon’s strong history of after-sale support suggests the timeline is simply a safeguard.

Ecosystem Expansion via RED Control Integration

Beyond internal camera processing, the partnership between Nikon and RED continues to deepen. RED is updating its RED CONTROL and RED CONTROL PRO applications to enable remote operation capabilities for the Nikon ZR. This software update weaves the Z CINEMA lineup tighter into RED’s existing ecosystem, extending far beyond the shared R3D NE recording format into full remote camera management.

As noted by SSBcrack, if Nikon successfully delivers Open Gate and anamorphic tools by the first half of 2027, the ZR could emerge as a major competitor against options like the Sony FX5—potentially undercutting rivals at roughly half the price point. With competing platforms also relying on firmware updates to unlock full Open Gate potential, Nikon’s roadmap positions the ZR to carve out a dominant market share before being outpaced by industry giants.