Summary
- Panasonic announced firmware 2.1 for the LUMIX S9.
- The Lens Fn button gains more assignable functions including Crop Zoom, Hybrid Zoom, Focus Peaking and Video Record.
- New MP4 (Lite) options include up to 4K 60p/50p and FHD 120p/100p.
- The firmware and new LUMIX Lab and LUMIX Flow versions are scheduled for October 13, 2026.
Panasonic has announced firmware version 2.1 for the LUMIX S9, with the headline change being a major expansion of the functions that can be assigned to the Lens Fn button on compatible LUMIX S lenses.
The update also adds new MP4 (Lite) video recording options and LUMIX Flow support, alongside new versions of the LUMIX Lab and LUMIX Flow apps. Panasonic has scheduled public availability for October 13, 2026.
More control from the Lens Fn button
With firmware 2.1, Lens Fn can handle many more functions, which is particularly useful on lenses with a dedicated Fn button such as the new LUMIX S 20mm F2.5. The goal is to give photographers and videographers quicker access to frequently used controls without repeatedly returning to camera menus.
- Aspect Ratio
- E-Stabilization (Video)
- Boost I.S. (Video)
- Image Area of Video
- Focus Ring Control
- Focus Limiter
- Hybrid Zoom
- Crop Zoom and related zoom functions
- Focus Peaking
- Video Record
For creator workflows, Crop Zoom, Hybrid Zoom, Focus Peaking and direct video recording are among the most practical additions because they move commonly used controls directly onto the lens.
New MP4 (Lite) video options
The LUMIX S9 also gains additional MP4 (Lite) recording formats: 4K 60p/50p and FHD 120p/100p/60p/50p. This expands capture options for faster, lighter file workflows, particularly for productions intended for quick editing or mobile-first publishing.
LUMIX Lab 3.1.1 and LUMIX Flow 1.7.0
LUMIX Lab 3.1.1 will support the S9’s newly added MP4 (Lite) formats, add LUT category filtering, downloadable LUT Packs grouped by creative theme and interface improvements.
At the same time, LUMIX Flow 1.7.0 expands compatibility to the LUMIX S9. The app is built around smartphone-based video workflows and supports tools such as storyboarding, scripting and using a phone as an external monitor in compatible setups.
Smaller updates for other models
Panasonic also announced firmware updates for the LUMIX S1RII, S1II, S1IIN and S1IIE. On these models, the changes focus on improved shutter-release responsiveness and burst-shooting performance with external flash units, together with operational stability improvements.
Available from October 13
LUMIX S9 firmware 2.1, together with the new LUMIX Lab and LUMIX Flow versions, is scheduled to be available free of charge on October 13, 2026 at 1:00 AM UTC through LUMIX Global Customer Support and the relevant app stores.
Find out more here.
What we think
The meaningful change is not simply the addition of a few more menu options to a button. Panasonic is turning Lens Fn into a more useful direct-control point for photographers and videographers, while the new MP4 (Lite) formats and LUMIX Flow support strengthen the S9’s fast creator-oriented workflow.
Frequently asked questions
What is the new Panasonic LUMIX S9 firmware version?
The new version is 2.1. Panasonic has scheduled its release for October 13, 2026.
What changes for Lens Fn?
More assignable functions are added, including Aspect Ratio, E-Stabilization, Boost I.S., Focus Ring Control, Focus Limiter, Hybrid Zoom, Crop Zoom, Focus Peaking and Video Record.
What is new for video?
New MP4 (Lite) options include 4K 60p/50p and FHD 120p/100p/60p/50p.
Does the S9 now support LUMIX Flow?
Yes. LUMIX Flow 1.7.0 expands compatibility to the LUMIX S9.
When will the update be available?
Panasonic has announced public availability for October 13, 2026 at 1:00 AM UTC.
