Today, Leica has released firmware updates for the full range of Leica SL System cameras. The latest SL2 and SL2-S receive updates to version 5.2.0 and the previous generation SL (Typ 601) gets a bump to version 4.0. Note that even though the version number is the same for both the SL2 and SL2-S, each camera has its own unique firmware. See below for a list of improvements, links to the firmware update files and instructions on how to perform the update.
SL2 / SL2-S version 5.2.0 Improvements
BP-SCL6 Support
The biggest feature in the new firmware is official support of the latest BP-SCL6 battery. Introduced with the Q3, the new BP-SCL6 offers 18% greater capacity at 2200mAh than the original BP-SCL4. While the newer battery seemed to work fine in SL2 cameras prior to the update, official support means more accurate battery life indication and greater stability.
Limitation for Higher Current Consumption Lenses Removed
New M Lenses 6-Bit Code Support
With more 6-bit codes and lens correction profiles, the SL2 and SL2-S will work with all the latest M lens offerings from Leica, including the recent 50mm Summilux-M ASPH II, which was introduced after the last firmware update.
Misc Bug Fixes
SL (Typ 601) version 4.0 Improvements
Profoto Remote Flash Control Support
Already present on the newer SL2 and SL2-S, the SL601 can now natively use Profoto remote flash systems. Nice to see Leica continuing to add functionality to previous generation cameras.
New M Lenses 6-Bit Code Support
The SL601 gets the same additional M lens support as the SL2 and SL2-S
Firmware Files
To download the firmware file for your camera, simply click the buttons below. You'll need to drag and drop the downloaded firmware file onto an SD card which was freshly formatted in the SL2 / SL2-S / SL601, then insert the card into your camera with a fully charged battery. Navigate to the Camera Information menu to access the firmware update option. Don't try to open the firmware file on your computer – just copy it onto the SD card into the root directory. Full step-by-step instructions are below.
Installation Instructions
- Recharge the battery to 100% and insert the battery into the camera.
- Remove all SD cards from the camera.
- Prepare a SD card for installation:
a. It is recommended to format the memory card inside the camera.
b. Please make sure that the card contains at least 200 MB of free disk space.
c. Copy the firmware file to the root directory of the SD card.
d. Insert the SD card into slot 1 of the SL camera. - Switch on the camera.
- Open the “Camera Information” menu item in the main menu. Under “Camera Firmware Version” you can see the version of the currently installed firmware and you can install the new firmware under “Start Update”.
- Confirm the update process if you want to start.
a. The camera will guide you through the process of updating your camera.
b. Please confirm to save your current settings to SD card before proceeding with the update.
c. The camera starts the update process and informs you when finished.
d. Restart the camera; do not eject the SD card.
e. After the welcome video you can select the language.
f. You now can do some settings via the Leica FOTOS App by connecting the camera with the app. If you have already connected the SL2 to the app, delete it from the app and connect the camera again - The update process is completed successfully.
- If you want to load your user profiles go to the menu item “User Profile” in the main menu and then “Manage Profiles”. With “Import Profiles” you can restore your profiles to the camera again.
Hello,
Thanks for posting this. To see the SL601 added for Profoto Connect Pro is a good sign. I have a Connect Pro (purchased in January) and been patiently waiting for the Firmware update for the M10 that would included HSS for the Leica Connect Pro for Leica. I’ve been told Leica is working on it.
Very useful indeed. I just need to figure out what the root directory is and I’m all set!
Steve, we have a number of episodes of Red Dot Forum Camera Talk dedicated to firmware updating, where we walk through the entire process start to finish. You can find all of those videos together here: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLza15VbJJEkDrYVWxsIOcO52xCCBk8VCA&si=rxMJH9PAmFjAMHQA
Thanks for the info. I just updated my SL 601.
I saved the settings.lcs file in case I ever need to restore my settings in the future but I can’t figure out how I would do that. I would also love to save a settings file again if I make changes but I can’t see how I do that either. I tried to repeat the upgrade but of course that didn’t work as I got the message that my camera is up to date. Thanks for any advice you have.
Karen