Updated M8 firmware that, according to initial reviews in the field, solves once and for all the random-white balance problem in AWB mode. I shoot Raw and mostly in b/w so this hasn't bothered me, but it is a boon nonetheless. I've already installed the firmware and it seems to be working. Leica has released quite a few firmware updates, all painless, and all very good at fixing issues. Their support has been tremendous, as you'd expect from an expensive camera. As a side not, i don't see my Canon 40d doing any better than the pre-firmware AWB of the M8. Maybe its just me...
Leica M8 cameras are meant to be upgradable - as new technologies come along, they'll upgrade your M8 to keep pace. I really like this idea. Instead of going for the 3 year cycle of disposability, Leica is trying to make your investment last. This is something most Leica users have come to expect from the M-system - a camera that eschews the bells and whistles and remains eerily independent of fads. After all, an M is a photographer's camera that takes great pictures with a minimum of fuss (well, beyond the fuss of actually paying into the club that is). The first update, available this fall, will provide a new, quieter shutter (very needed, although they drop the top speed to 1/4000 instead of the current 1/8000), a new LCD made of tougher crystal somethingorother, any firmware updates needed, re-calibration and cleaning, door to door service and a new 2 year warrantee. It ain't cheap, but it will keep your M8 up to date. I'm looking forward to the subsequent update that adds all this and a new full frame sensor, dust cleaning etc. Not sure if I'll jump for this right away.
The tag line: A future Proof Investment.
Pretty cool.
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