Panasonic Stops 3rd Party Batteries

[boBQuincy]

From DPReview today:

"Panasonic has released firmware updates for its latest digital cameras including the GH1, G1, ZS3 and TS1. The new firmware can identify genuine Panasonic batteries and prevents the use of any third party battery packs. The company says it has taken this move to ensure safety of its users against possible injuries because of overcharging, internal heating or short circuit in third-party batteries."

Epson tried something like this to prevent refills of ink cartridges. I am not sure how it turned out but this could be the start of something big.

 

[JR6ooo4]

From DPReview today:

"Panasonic has released firmware updates for its latest digital cameras including the GH1, G1, ZS3 and TS1. The new firmware can identify genuine Panasonic batteries and prevents the use of any third party battery packs. The company says it has taken this move to ensure safety of its users against possible injuries because of overcharging, internal heating or short circuit in third-party batteries."

Epson tried something like this to prevent refills of ink cartridges. I am not sure how it turned out but this could be the start of something big.

if your camera is out of warranty then just wait a few weeks. there will be a hack/patch to use other batt.s I'm sure...

Mikeeee

 

[oogieboogieman]

That's very interesting! I would imagine that camera manufactures don't make that much profit off the cameras that we buy. They just like to charge lots of money for the accessories that we think we need! I'm currently using clone batteries in my Olympus cameras and have had good results.