Viltrox compatibility

[Peter7100]

I know Nikon are shortly taking Viltrox to court over copyright issues on their Z series.
Does anyone know if any of the current Z bodies have had software updates that prevent the use of Viltrox lenses.
Also, on some Viltrox Z lenses there appears to be no manual/AF switch, which therefore requires switching to manual via modes in camera. So if future updates prevent the AF from working on these lenses, would it still be possible to use the focus ring manually and capture shots, or could updated software in theory totally prevent any type of use with these lenses. Of course they might come to some sort of agreement at the hearing and then this shouldn't be an issue.

 

[BF Hammer]

I think look to what Canon did to lock out 3rd party lenses as what can happen.

I think Nikon's legal actions are taking place in China. I believe all that is at stake is electronic communication through the mount. Possible this is intended for pursuading Viltrox to pay up for licensing the Z mount and compromise achieved. But right now I am relieved I have not bought a Viltrox lens and I'll just wait and see on this.

Also lenses like the 28mm pancake are autofocus only and cannot be manually focused. Not enough room for the extra complications.

 

[Eduard]

I’ve been curiously watching this from the (Fuji) sidelines. It seems odd to me that Nikon (and Canon) are going down this path. In Fuji-land, the Viltrox lenses are viewed very favorably with a couple approaching stellar comments. The prices tend to be just lower than a used Fuji equivalent which seems to be a sweet spot. I have one of their primes. It does have some trade-offs, noticeable a lack of an aperture ring, but the results are excellent. I hope Nikon and Viltrox can reach an agreement.