The online consensus is that the majority of the new OM System OM-1 Mark II camera improvements could have been simply a firmware upgrade. Some reports even indicated that in fact, a planned firmware update was scratched in favor of releasing a new camera (you can sell a new camera for $2,399, but you cannot sell a firmware update):

Rumors: OM-1 firmware update version 2.0 deliberately shelved by OM System in favor of a new Mark II camera

After much scrutiny online, OM System announced yesterday that they will release a new firmware update for the OM-1 Mark I camera that will bring some of the autofocus improvements:

FUTURE FIRMWARE UPDATE PLAN FOR THE OM-1

21 February 2024 | Since the announcement of the OM SYSTEM OM-1 Mark II interchangeable lens camera on 30 January, there have been many requests regarding the possibility of a firmware update for the OM SYSTEM OM-1 (release March 2022). For this reason, we would like to inform you about our plan for a future firmware update for the OM-1:

Future firmware update plan for the OM-1

The following changes for the OM-1 are planned for autumn this year via a firmware update:

Autofocus: improvement of some AF functions, such as S-AF and C-AF in All-Target mode, to improve the capture of prime subjects.

Usability: Improved usability with the ability to use the trash/delete button as an option for menu access.

Please note the following points:

The update will not include new features introduced with the OM-1 Mark II, such as Live GND and AI Detection AF for people.

It will only offer some improvements in AF performance and therefore the new AF performance of the OM-1 will not be the same as the OM-1 Mark II.

We will continue to offer products and services that enrich your photography experience.

* Details are subject to change (OM System)

Another OM System announcement soon: new teaser on social media

OM System announces OM-1 Mark II camera and 9-18mm + 150-600mm lenses

The post After the OM-1 Mark II announcement, OM System will bring some of the autofocus improvements to the older OM-1 Mark I model appeared first on Photo Rumors.