Ricoh Imaging has rolled out a significant software enhancement for its highly-regarded GR IV series of compact cameras. This update introduces a crucial electronic shutter capability to the standard GR IV model, bringing it in line with its more specialized siblings, the GR IV HDF and GR IV Monochrome. This move by Ricoh aims to unify key functionalities across its premium compact camera lineup and boost the overall shooting experience for users.
Ricoh GR IV Receives Electronic Shutter Upgrade in Latest Firmware Release
On February 13, 2026, Ricoh Imaging officially released firmware version 1.11 for the Ricoh GR IV and Ricoh GR IV HDF compact cameras. This update's most notable addition is the electronic shutter function for the standard Ricoh GR IV, a feature that was previously exclusive to the Ricoh GR IV HDF and Ricoh GR IV Monochrome models. This strategic inclusion fulfills a prior commitment made by Ricoh in December 2025, when they first unveiled the GR IV HDF.
The electronic shutter addresses a long-standing limitation of the GR IV's mechanical shutter, which maxes out at 1/4000s and is further capped at slower speeds (e.g., 1/2500s at f/2.8-f/4) when using wider apertures. With the electronic shutter, photographers can now achieve blazing-fast shutter speeds of up to 1/16,000s. This is particularly beneficial for shooting in extremely bright conditions or when utilizing wide apertures without overexposing the image. However, Ricoh advises caution, noting the potential for rolling shutter effects when capturing rapidly moving subjects like vehicles or sports scenes, which can lead to distorted imagery. The GR IV HDF, known for its Highlight Diffusion Filter, and the GR IV Monochrome, featuring a specialized physical red filter for dramatic black-and-white photography, both benefit from this enhanced performance stability.
Beyond the shutter functionality, the new firmware also brings an overarching improvement to the general performance stability of both the Ricoh GR IV and GR IV HDF. Currently, the Ricoh GR IV is priced at approximately $1,500, though availability might be limited due to high demand. The GR IV HDF and GR IV Monochrome are available for preorder, with prices around $1,600 and $2,200, respectively.
This firmware update is a testament to Ricoh's commitment to enhancing its existing camera models and ensuring a consistent and high-quality user experience across its product range. By integrating the electronic shutter into the standard GR IV, Ricoh not only extends the camera's versatility but also strengthens its position in the competitive compact camera market, offering photographers more creative control and adaptability in diverse shooting environments.