Read Before Updating Nikon Z8 Firmware to V3.0: Important for Third-Party Lens Owners
We just covered the new firmware update V3.0 for the Nikon Z8 and praised Nikon for their ongoing support and improvements through firmware updates. However, not all updates go smoothly. Some users of Tamron lenses with the Z mount have reported performance and reliability issues after installing the V3.0 update. According to several reports, the problems seem to disappear when certain features like the software-based focus range limiter are turned off, but the situation is still frustrating.
Tamron EU release a statement about this issue on their official website here:
TAMRON:
Notice Regarding Compatibility of Some TAMRON Lenses with the Nikon Z8 Camera (Firmware 3.00)
Dear TAMRON user,
Thank you for placing your trust in our products!
We’d like to let you know that after updating the Nikon Z8 to firmware version 3.00, some TAMRON lenses may experience limitations in functionality.
Our team is already working hard to analyze the cause and find an appropriate solution. Of course, we’ll keep you informed — as soon as there are any updates or new information regarding affected lenses, you’ll find them in our newsroom or on our social media channels.
Thank you for your patience and understanding!
Best regards, Your TAMRON Service Team
This situation also highlighted an important warning that Nikon includes in their firmware update instructions: "Do not update the camera firmware with lenses other than Z-mount NIKKOR lenses or mount adapters other than FTZ II/FTZ attached." Nikon states that ignoring this guidance may lead to camera malfunctions, and it could also affect how the lens operates.
Nikon:
Caution: Updating the Firmware
Do not update the camera firmware with lenses other than Z-mount NIKKOR lenses or mount adapters other than FTZ II/FTZ attached; failure to observe this precaution could result in camera malfunction.
At the same time, Viltrox published a statement on their website advising users to remove any third-party lenses before starting the firmware update process.
Viltrox:
For Nikon Camera Users Updating Firmware
We’ve recently become aware of a new notice issued by Nikon, advising users not to update their Nikon camera firmware while a third-party lens is attached, as this may cause potential issues or malfunctions.
As a third-party lens manufacturer dedicated to delivering reliable, high-performance autofocus lenses to creators around the world, we would like to provide the following kind reminders to our valued Viltrox users using Nikon Z-mount cameras:
đź”” Firmware Update Reminder
If you are planning to update your Nikon camera firmware, we strongly recommend that you detach any third-party lens, including Viltrox lenses, before proceeding with the update.
This is a precautionary measure to avoid any unexpected behavior during the firmware installation process.
If you've already updated your Z8 firmware to Ver 3.00 and are having issues, one option is to downgrade to the previous firmware Ver 2.10.
