07-29-2025
04:35 PM
- last edited on
07-30-2025
09:45 AM
by
Danny
I recently purchased my R5 II, my first mirrorless body. I was not pleased to learn that a small pocket manual was not included in my costly purchase. A small paper manual was always included with my 5D III and my 5D SR. I paid an additional fee to obtain a paper manual, ALL FOUR OF THEM. I am wading through the intimidating documents to learn how to use my new camera. I expect Canon to start charging for firmware updates any day now.
I also had to update the firmware to version 1.0.1, only to learn afterward that this firmware version is flawed. My question is, can I trust firmware update 1.1.1, or should I wait for those more knowledgeable than I to pass judgment?
Thank You
07-29-2025 06:41 PM
Hi MBikieW,
Hopefully this will help clarify things for you. Paper manuals are virtually useless. They are outdated by the time your camera gets into your hands.
Electronic copies are portable, searchable and updated every time Canon adds features or enhancements via new firmware. Think about how convenient it is to have your camera's manual on your mobile device, tablet or computer. Want to search for a specific feature or term, no problem. You can print a .PDF of your manual, but it'll be outdated soon as Canon puts out a newer firmware for your device.
Canon charging for firmware updates? No. In fact, the newer firmware available on 10 or more models now allow you to upgrade firmware directly on the camera without the EOS Utility, Canon Connect App or by using a card reader to copy the .FIR file manually to a SD or CF Express B card.
Canon is moving forward not backwards. The same goes for installation CDs. These are also outdated by the time a Canon product makes it into your hands. It's created, shipped to a dealer and sits in their warehouse before making its way to you. Instead, you visit the product support portal for your device and download the latest drivers currently available.
All of this is done with the consumer in mind. It's one less thing for you to carry. One less thing for you to worry about and it saves Canon a little money too.
It's a good business practice and philosophy on many levels. Enjoy your new camera! 😉
~Rick
Bay Area - CA
~R5 C (1.0.9.1), ~R50v (1.1.1) ~RF Trinity, ~RF 100 Macro, ~RF 100~400, ~RF 100~500, ~RF 200-800 +RF 1.4x TC, BG-R10, 430EX III-RT ~DxO PhotoLab Elite ~DaVinci Resolve Studio ~ImageClass MF644Cdw/MF656Cdw ~Pixel 8 ~CarePaks Are Worth It
07-30-2025 06:12 AM
@MBikieW wrote:
I recently purchased my R5 II, my first mirrorless body. I was not pleased to learn that a small pocket manual was not included in my costly purchase. A small paper manual was always included with my 5D III and my 5D SR. I paid an additional fee to obtain a paper manual, ALL FOUR OF THEM. I am wading through the intimidating documents to learn how to use my new camera. I expect Canon to start charging for firmware updates any day now.
I also had to update the firmware to version 1.0.1, only to learn afterward that this firmware version is flawed. My question is, can I trust firmware update 1.1.1, or should I wait for those more knowledgeable than I to pass judgment?
Thank You
Rick is correct. Since you did order print copies you can see why they aren't included with the camera. Larger than the camera itself.
This might be helpful. I have used them for several of my cameras.
11/20/2025: New firmware updates are available.
EOS R6 Mark III - Version 1.0.1
EOS R5 Mark II - Version 1.2.0
PowerShot G7 X Mark III - Version 1.4.0
PowerShot SX740 HS - Version 1.0.2
10/15/2025: New firmware updates are available.
Speedlite EL-5 - Version 1.2.0
Speedlite EL-1 - Version 1.1.0
Speedlite Transmitter ST-E10 - Version 1.2.0
07/24/2025: New firmware updates are available.
07/23/2025: New firmware updates are available.
7/17/2025: New firmware updates are available.
02/20/2025: New firmware updates are available.
RF70-200mm F2.8 L IS USM Z - Version 1.0.6
RF24-105mm F2.8 L IS USM Z - Version 1.0.9
RF100-300mm F2.8 L IS USM - Version 1.0.8
RF50mm F1.4 L VCM - Version 1.0.2
RF24mm F1.4 L VCM - Version 1.0.3
Canon U.S.A Inc. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without permission is prohibited.