Instructions checked against Sony on . Updating an FX3 or FX30 starts with two checks: your exact model and its installed firmware. Older versions need an intermediate update. Do not use an FX3 file on an FX30.
The original video above is retained for context. It has not been re-verified against the current releases below. These written instructions were checked separately against Sony's support pages. Follow Sony's current instructions if the video differs.
Check the model and firmware version
Open MENU > Setup > Setup Option > Version, then Body if shown. Sony's US support pages currently list FX3 version 7.02 and FX30 version 6.01, both released March 17, 2026. If that version is already installed, this update is unnecessary. Check those pages again before starting because releases and requirements can change.
Follow the correct update sequence
FX3: older cameras need a computer-assisted first step
Version 2.02 or earlier: first install 2.04 or 2.05, then install 7.02. Sony's FX3 update-order page links to the Windows and Mac interim packages. Although labeled version 3.00, these contain the required interim updater. Sony says the separate 3.00 step is not required: from 2.04 or 2.05 you can proceed to 7.02. Cameras already on 2.04 or later can skip the interim package.
For that older FX3 computer-assisted step only, follow the package's USB instructions and remove the memory card when directed. On Mac, check Sony's supported operating systems, Camera Driver and Apple silicon requirements in the official Mac interim instructions. Do not assume a newer macOS version is supported. Sony warns that starting from 1.01 or earlier resets settings and that settings saved before 1.01 cannot be loaded afterward. Record your settings before proceeding.
FX30: the intermediate update also uses a memory card
Version 1.02 or earlier: first install 1.05, then install 6.01. Do not skip 1.05. Cameras already on 1.05 or later can proceed to 6.01. See Sony's FX30 update-order page.
The FX30 1.05 interim update is card-only, with no Windows or Mac updater. Put its unchanged BODYDATA.DAT at the card's top level, insert the card in slot 1 and use Version > Software Update. Confirm 1.05 after completion before preparing the separate 6.01 file. Keep only the file for the update you are performing on the card.
Install the current release from a memory card
After any required intermediate step, use the exact model's current Sony download page linked above. For FX3 7.02 and FX30 6.01:
- Use a fully charged NP-FZ100 battery. Sony requires at least three bars or 51% charge. Let an overheated camera cool before updating.
- Copy your recordings elsewhere before formatting a compatible card in the camera. Formatting permanently erases its contents.
- Copy that model's
BODYDATA.DATto the card's top level, not a folder. Keep the filename unchanged and only one update file on the card. - Insert it in slot 1. Open MENU > Setup > Setup Option > Version > Body > Software Update, read the confirmation and choose Execute.
- Do not remove the battery or card during updating. A black screen and changing access-lamp flashes are expected. Sony estimates about six minutes for this card step, not the entire preparation or older FX3 procedure.
- After the automatic restart, acknowledge completion and check the body version again.
Check cautions before returning to work
Read the registered-user-LUT cautions for FX3 6.00/6.01 and FX30 5.00/5.01 before continuing; Sony's notes explain when to re-register them. Do not interrupt a normal update to troubleshoot a dark screen. For an error message or abnormal blink pattern, follow that model's linked troubleshooting section or contact Sony.
Need help finding a setting afterward? Choose your exact model in the Camera Manual Assistant for source-linked manual summaries. My gear page remains available for equipment context.
