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Sony demos Bravia HX950 flagship HDTV at IFA, confirms pricing from €2,999 (hands-on video)
Eager to get your hands on a top-of-the-line set without shelling out five figures for a super-slick 55-inch OLED? Sony's Bravia HX950 may have caught your eye, with its Intelligent Peak LED Backlight that's said to deliver "the best contrast Sony has to offer." According to representatives at IFA (who don't always tend to offer the most consistent specifications), the full-array system includes 196 individual zones, letting the television adjust backlighting on a more granular level, resulting in brighter whites and deeper blacks. We caught up with both the 55- and 65-inch flavors of Sony's HX950 at the company's booth, where several demo stations were arranged to highlight the backlighting, along with features called 3D Super-Resolution, Internet Video Super Resolution and HD Super Resolution. All of the side-by-side demonstrations provided noticeable improvements, though all three Super Resolution settings may be a tad too sharp for some viewers. The set itself is as gorgeous as you'd expect for a flagship model, with a black glossy bezel and a narrow design that's sufficiently svelte without stepping into ultra-thin territory. The specially designed glass panel does indeed help to reduce glare, as we experienced in the visually congested IFA booth. Perhaps most interesting is the price -- €2,999 (about $3,800) for the 55-inch model, and €4,999 (about $6,300) for the 65 incher -- a steep drop from the 650,000 yen (about $8,270) the HDTV is commanding in Japan. We weren't able to confirm US availability or pricing, which will likely come in below the European tag, but reps did quote a November 1st ship date, which seems to be in line with the November 10th date we heard for Japan earlier this week. You'll have but two months to wait before adding this monster to your collection, but you can snag a look today in our gallery below and hands-on video after the break.%Gallery-164016%
Sony's 84-inch 4K Bravia KD-84X9005 hits the IFA show floor, we go eyes-on
As ever, Sony's IFA press conference was a veritable storm of products, but CEO Kaz Hirai was clearly the most excited about the company's new 84-inch 4K TV, the Bravia KD-84X9005, and after beholding the thing for a bit alongside a scrum of fellow tech journalists in Sony's booth at IFA, it's pretty clear why. The thing is beautiful -- and yeah, we can confirm, as Kaz suggested, that you really do want to stick out your hand and touch the picture when you're standing in front of it, particularly, when the video cycles through images of the ocean, with water droplets hitting the screen. At 84 inches, this thing is a beast, with at least a dozen or so folks standing comfortably around it to catch a glimpse of the display. The Bravia is surprisingly thin for such a beast. There are speaker bars attached to either side of the display, with a control panel along the bottom. The stand consists of two metal bars holding up what's surely a weighty set. Check out our eyes-on video after the break. %Gallery-163642%
Sony announces new Bravia KD-84X9005, 84-inch 4K TV at IFA
Sony's rolling out the new products thick and fast at its press conference at IFA, the latest beauty on display, this stunning 84-inch 4K Bravia TV. The new 3,840 x 2,160 LCD telly comes loaded with X-Reality Pro Engine to take care of the rendering, and a "10 Unit Live Speaker" system. If two dimensions aren't enough, then the KD-84X9005 also supports upscaling for greater-than-HD passive 3D. No information on price at this time (Update: We've been informed we should hear about pricing next week at CEDIA, so stay tuned), but it should be available from the end of this year. %Gallery-163654%
Sony unveils latest HX950 flagship HDTV in Japan with 'Intelligent Peak LED' backlighting
While Sony's current lineup of HDTVs has so far topped out with the HX929/920 series that's been kicking around since 2011, in Japan it has just unveiled a new top of the line model: the HX950. Often rumored in the last few months, it's available in 65- or 55-inch varieties and features Sony's now-trademark monolithic style as well as "Intelligent Peak LED" backlighting. Although Sony's brand name for the tech doesn't exactly reveal how it works, information leaks have suggested it is full array LED backlighting and not edge based, although we don't know how many zones (individually controlled light sources) are in play. What we do know, however is that it claims to outperform the LED backlighting in the old 929 quite handily, although we'll let our eyes be the judge of that. It also includes MotionFlow XR960 (800 in the US) motion processing tech that can create 240fps from 60 frames and a glass panel mounted to the LCD itself with a special type of resin designed specifically to reduce glare. Finally, there's also the usual add-ins like 3D and Sony Entertainment Network streaming video. We haven't seen any European or US information for this model yet, although with IFA 2012 under way and CEDIA coming up that may change quickly. Currently pricing in Japan for the 65-inch is expected to be around 650,000 yen or $8,269 when it ships November 10th, but we should mention actual US prices are typically much lower than a direct conversion. Unofficially, one retailer is already listing the 55- and 65-inch models for sale in the US for $3,499 and $5,499, respectively, although we'd take that with a grain of salt until we know for sure.
Netflix brought into the Sony Entertainment Network fold for British Bravia buffs
Britons and citizens of the ROI! Sony's bringing Netflix to all Sony Entertainment Network-connected devices. It looks like Kaz Hirai's plan to "unify" the company and its media offerings is beginning to gain a little momentum. If you have a SEN-connected 2012 Bravia TV or Blu-ray player, then the app should be available soon -- although no-one seems to know precisely when. If you're on PS3, or in the States, then Netflix is old news, so don't bother with the press release after the break
Sony's 3D Experience channel tops 10 million views, some people like the extra dimension
Since kicking off its free 3D Experience channel, Sony has managed to notch up 10 million viewers in just short of six months. The channel offers up samples of music, movies, sports and documentaries for free, in an effort to tempt viewers into ponying up cash for the full experience. The channel, available on its Bravia 3DTV range and Blu-ray players, has now expanded from its five initial launch countries to 60. It's currently offering tastes of forthcoming Sony titles like The Amazing Spiderman and content from last year's World Cup, with a total of around 100 free snippets to peruse on the Japanese iteration of the channel. You hear Sony well up with pride in the PR below. Well, it's had a pretty tough time recently.
Sony Bravia TVs updated with Twitter, YouTube HD and more
Just when it seemed all the wonders of the internet were destined to only work on the second screen, Sony's firmware update for its 2011 Bravia TVs is making us rethink things. For starters, you can now enjoy those HD YouTube videos in HD and even keep up with your friend's photos, videos and shared links on Facebook. Also, now they're compatible with a new lite version of the Remote Keyboard app -- a feature previously exclusive to Vaio PCs and Xperia smartphones. Finally, you can now get live Twitter updates along the bottom of your screen and even use a Shazam like feature called Track ID to determine the names of songs, or their artists, that are played during your shows or commercials. The free update is available now for those with compatible sets, those with older Bravia TVs, though. Not so much.
Sony may be preparing an internet-based cable TV alternative
We've officially entered the silly season of pre-CES rumors, so take this with a grain of salt, but the Wall Street Journal reports Sony has approached "several big media companies" about distributing their channels over the internet. This comes on the heels of its report on comments by CEO Howard Stringer about significant R&D efforts going into a "different kind of TV", and the four screen strategy Sony would like to implement. According to the report, Sony's idea is to offer small bundles of channels over the internet to its TVs, Blu-ray players, and the PS3. Still, cutting deals with companies like CBS, that doesn't want to jeopardize its cable and satellite TV-based revenue, could be difficult. As for the competition, similar rumors about Microsoft turned into an effort that mostly works with partners like Comcast, U-verse, and FiOS, while Google is also pursuing a route of adding to, but not necessarily replacing, cable TV. Sony has positioned itself well, adding IPTV services including sports to the PS3 and live TV tuning capability, and its tested the waters of going over the top before, but so far whether it will actually pursue this new plan is unknown.
Sony to recall 1.6 million Bravia TVs due to melting components (update: not a full recall)
A vast number of Bravia LCD TVs dating from 2007 and 2008 will be recalled after components in some Japanese sets went into meltdown and started smoking. So far only eleven incidents have been reported and it looks like no one has been hurt or experienced any wider damage, but Sony says it wants to take back 1.6 million TVs that were sold in the US, Europe, Japan and elsewhere. No word on exactly which models are affected, but we're expecting further details from Sony imminently. Update: Looks like this might not be a full recall after all. We can't access Sony's support site right now, but the BBC reports that UK owners of the following models can summon an engineer to inspect their set if they're worried: KDL-40D3400, KDL-40D3500, KDL-40D3550, KDL-40D3660, KDL-40V3000, KDL-40W3000, KDL-40X3000, KDL-40X3500. Update 2: Check after the break for US recall information.
Live from Sony IFA 2011 press event
What better way to kick this year's IFA conference in beautiful Berlin, Germany than a good old fashioned Sony press conference? We're getting ready to get things started here, so sit down, grab a beverage and reach for those 3D glasses to read along at home [note: this liveblog is not in 3D]. Photos by Zach Honig.
LG, Sony drop patent infringement lawsuits, strike cross-licensing agreement
The testy patent battle between LG and Sony has finally come to an end, now that the companies have decided to lay down their arms and call a truce. In a statement issued today, an LG spokeswoman declared that the two parties have "agreed to drop patent infringement lawsuits against each other," adding that they've struck a cross-licensing deal on the TVs, smartphones and other gadgets in question. A Sony representative confirmed this, but did not offer further details. The spat began back in December, when Sony filed a complaint with the ITC over a handful of allegedly patent infringing LG mobile devices. The Korean manufacturer later struck back with an ITC complaint of its own, targeting Sony products like the Bravia and PlayStation 3. Now, however, the two have apparently learned how to play nice, though details on their settlement remain scarce. As soon as we have them, we'll pass them along.
Sony restored Qriocity VOD, Music Unlimited services today if anyone cares
Less noticed in Sony's PlayStation Network fiasco was the fact that it affected the company's Qriocity video and misc services as well, but today the company announced those are back online everywhere (with the exception of Japan.) Of course, even though Qriocity access is built into many Sony devices, we just haven't heard of anyone actually using it. As promised, Music Unlimited Premium subscribers have had a free 30 days added to their accounts, while the video service merely encourages users to check back later. Anecdotal evidence suggests most had never heard of Qriocity before it was mentioned so prominently during the outage, let us know if you're interested in trying it out now that its back on your Bravia TVs and Sony Blu-ray players.
Sony licenses Dolby's HDR tech to make brighter, better Bravia HDTVs in the future
Ever since BrightSide first showed off its Extreme Dynamic Range displays that claim to display luminance throughout the entire range of vision back in 2005, we've been waiting for the technology to overtake current LCDs. The years have passed and a after being purchased by Dolby all we've had to show for it so far is a slightly smaller bezel and a handful of reference displays for professionals from Sim2. That could turn around though, now that Dolby has licensed the technology to Sony to make BRAVIA LCD HDTVs with. Of course, so far Sony hasn't done much with its implementation of OLED and after six years we're cautious to get too excited before actual products are announced, but we could be in for some much better looking displays very soon. Check the press release after the break for details or slick the link to Sim2 below for more explanation on just what this technology is and why you should look forward to it.
Crackle starts streaming all of its free movies to Roku, PS3, Sony TVs and Blu-ray players
Sony's Crackle has had a more successful life so far than its previous iteration as Grouper, streaming movies, TV shows and shorts to various devices since launching back in '07 and announced today its full library will be streaming to the PS3, Roku boxes, Sony Blu-ray players and Bravia TVs. Expanding full access from just the Google TV (there's also an Android app that currently streams some of the items) it's taking credit as the only provider offering free full length flicks including Ghostbusters, Bad Boys, A Few Good Men and more for free on these platforms. The drawbacks are video that tops out at 480p standard definition and Hulu-style commercial interruptions but if you absolutely must watch Weekend at Bernies II without spending any money it is an option -- at least, as long as the PS3 browser doesn't crash with an out of memory error like it did for us. It did work better on more capable platforms, so check out the full details in the press release after the break.
Sony and LG price a swath of 3D HDTVs
We're still waiting on LG's ginormous 72-inch LZ7900 to make its debut on store shelves, but the rest of CES's primo 3DTV crop is rearing to ride out, with Sony's HX929, HX820 and HX720 series of LED-backlit LCD screens and LG's Infinia PZ750 plasmas now priced at Amazon. 3D-Display-info.com found Sony's locally-dimmed Bravia sets starting at $2,099 for a 46-inch HX720 with Gorilla Glass protection, all the way up to $3,799 for the premium 55-inch XBR-55HX929 with a full-array LED backlight. Meanwhile, the 50-inch LG PZ750 (with Smart TV, naturally) starts out at $1,599, while a 60-inch version of the same thing will run $2,199. Which one fits best in your den? That depends on a number of things, but we will add that the Sony sets are merely up for pre-order, while the LG units are listed as shipping within a matter of weeks.
LG files ITC complaint against Sony, goes blow for blow
Late last year, Sony smacked LG with claims of patent infringement, and now the Korean company is swinging back with complaints of its own. LG reportedly filed two claims with the ITC on February 4th, accusing Sony devices -- including Bravia and PlayStation 3 -- of stepping on eight separate LG patents. We knew something like this couldn't be far behind Sony's ITC filing and accompanying federal court case, and we're equally unmoved to hear LG is firing back with its very own civil suit, recently filed in California. Last year we saw patent infringement suits spread like meningitis in a college dorm, and if this dispute is any sign, we can expect to see more of the same in 2011. Let the litigation begin!
Sony posts $887 million net profit, PlayStation has strong holiday quarter
Sony had quite a good holiday during its third quarter for fiscal year 2010, posting a ¥137.5 billion (approximately US $1.68b) operating income. Year-over-year, however, it's actually six percent lower than Q3 FY09, with some blame attributable to a five percent stronger yen. Although sales were more or less the same in most divisions (with pictures and music seeing a more noticeable drop), operating income saw dramatic changes. Consumer, Professional and Devices dropped 47 percent to ¥26.8b ($327.3m), while Networked Products and Services (which includes the PlayStation brand) jumped a whopping 134 percent to ¥45.7b ($559.78). Looking at unit sales, Bravia sets were way up (7.9m units versus 5.4m in Q3 FY09), and video cameras, compact digital cameras, and PCs all saw moderate gains. PSP hardware took a pretty big hit, going from 4.2m last holiday to 3.6m this past quarter (the now-profitable PlayStation 3 saw a slight decline, 6.5m to 6.3m). Software-wise, though, both gaming machines saw a bump -- 57.6m (from 47.6m) for PS3 and 16.4m (from 15m) for PSP. The PlayStation 2, now almost 11 years old, actually had about the same 2.1m hardware unit sales YOY, though software took a pretty hard hit (from 11.2m to 5.3m). Sony's golden years console isn't going down without a fight -- then again, it might've been a different story had the company managed to add backwards compatibility to the PS3.
Sony's Music Unlimited service infiltrates France, Germany, Italy and Spain, offers streaming tunes
See this message? You no longer have to if you live in France, Germany, Italy or Spain, as Sony's rolled out its Music Unlimited subscription streaming service in each aforementioned nation just yesterday. Basically, it's the same deal that launched in the UK last month, but at a slightly cheaper price given the exchange rate: €3.99 a month buys you a virtual radio station that streams millions of songs to your Sony TVs, Blu-ray players or PS3 -- with portable devices and phones on the way -- while €9.99 upgrades to a premium plan that lets you select tunes on demand and generate playlists. Next stop: North America. PR after the break.
Sony Ericsson MT15i / Vivaz 2 ensnared by Eldar Murtazin, given glowing preview
The choice of Android Gingerbread handsets just grew by one, courtesy of the Sony Ericsson MT15i and Russia's premier mobile reviewer, Eldar Murtazin, who has put it through his rigorous preview cycle. The typically curmudgeonly gent was pleasantly surprised by SE's latest (and entirely unofficial) handset, claiming that the company "has developed and is about to launch truly cutting edge devices and ... has almost nothing to fear in the hardware department as well." He has praise for the above-average front-facing cam, the endurance offered by the 1500mAh battery, and the 854 x 480 res on the Reality Display -- though he does warn that Sony's Bravia Engine is only used when consuming multimedia and therefore has limited impact on improving output quality. Internally, you're looking at 512MB of RAM and a 1GHz Qualcomm MSM7630 with Adreno 205 graphics, all of which resulted in perfectly smooth, lag-free operation. In spite of its many pluses, Eldar describes the MT15i as a phone targeting the mid-range, which invites all sorts of delicious pricing speculation, though we're not entirely sure we agree with his postulation that this handset will be called the Vivaz 2. The Xperia branding up front and the replacement of Symbian with Android would collectively suggest it'll bear an altogether new name when it's unveiled -- which we'll go ahead and presume is going to happen at MWC next month.
Skype gets official with apps for Sony Bravia, Vizio VIA TVs
Both Sony and Vizio have already quietly dropped word that Skype would be heading to their respective internet-connected TVs, but Skype itself has now made the move fully official, a full year after it offered the first demo of Skype on a Panasonic VieraCast TV at CES 2010. Unfortunately, it isn't offering many more details than Sony or Vizio, and it's using both "coming soon" and "later this year" to describe the rollout on TVs from the two companies, which leaves open a depressingly long and confusing possible launch window -- we do know that Sony's Skype-ready Bravias will begin rolling out in February, but Sony hasn't confirmed a release date for the required webcam. What's more, Skype has also confirmed that it's working with Panasonic and Sony to bring some added connectivity to your existing TV with the aid of a Skype-enabled Blu-ray player and webcam -- look for those "soon."