April 17, 2026, 3:03 pm | Read time: 3 minutes
Sony is making changes to the antenna reception on several Bravia TVs. This affects features that have previously allowed quick navigation through the current TV program.
For many, traditional television remains a staple of daily life. You turn on the TV, flip through the channels, and search the electronic program guide for the next show. This direct use without logging in, switching between different apps, or lengthy searches makes this method of reception appealing to many. It is precisely in this area that Sony is now making cuts to certain Bravia TVs. Several functions related to antenna channels will be removed from selected devices.
Changes Begin at the End of May 2026
According to available information, the transition will start at the end of May 2026. Sony will then discontinue functions on some Bravia models that have previously provided additional information about the current TV program. Devices from the years 2023 to 2025 are affected. There will be limitations on antenna channels, especially in the electronic program guide, or EPG.
The models mentioned include the 2025 Bravia 8 II with the designation XR80M2 and the Bravia 5 with the designation XR50. For the 2024 model year, the manufacturer lists the Bravia 9 with XR90, the Bravia 8 with XR80, and the Bravia 7 with XR70. The A95L series from 2023 is also affected.
In everyday use, the change is evident through a stripped-down display. Program information may only appear for the most recently used channels or may be missing entirely. Additionally, graphical content such as channel logos and preview images will disappear. Sony is also making adjustments to the interface. The previous menu for external reception devices will be removed, replaced by a simplified view that only offers basic functions. The company does not provide more detailed information on this.
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Sony Gives No Reason for the Move
Why Sony is removing these functions is not explained by the company. The article also references internet-based services and streaming apps. Traditional reception methods like antennas are losing significance. Therefore, the change is likely to affect only a relatively small portion of users.
Those who continue to watch traditional TV will still have to contend with a noticeable loss of convenience. The removal of these functions means the loss of aids that have previously guided viewers through the current program, making usage less convenient for this group.