Sony has announced a major firmware update for the Sony A9 - More about the functions and enhancements, as well as the link to download the update, can be found below along with some quick thoughts about what this might mean for Sony a7RIII users.

Firmware version 2.00 provides the following benefits:

Continuous AF Enhancements:

Enhanced performance of continuous autofocus on moving subjectsEnhanced stability of the AF-C when zooming

Added Functions:

Adds the function to assign Protecting images to custom KeyAdds the function to transfer (FTP) protected files at onceNote: Only for images protected using version 2.00 or higher.Displays wired LAN MAC addressInputs IPTC metadata to filesNote: IPTC information must be created beforehand using the IPTC Metadata Preset software.Inputs camera serial number to metadata

Other Improvements:

Improves operational stabilityImproves accuracy of the overheating warning functionUpdate: https://alphauniverse.com/stories/sony-announces-a9-firmware-update-2-00/

Sony a7RIII Photographers

I hope we will see some of these benefits in a future FW update too. The a9 and a7RIII share many similarities including FTP transfer and similar AF systems. So far I have been extremely happy with the AF but additional improvements are always welcome. I have tested the FTP transfer and while it is cumbersome and actual transfer can be slow it is possible to set up a home FTP network or connect to one through a wifi hotspot and upload a few photos as a backup. FTP allows for full RAW transfer. With the Wifi, you are limited to jpegs. Being able to one-click mark images for transfer would be a huge time saver.Let me know of any questions. Thanks!