Sony is set to trim some features from its Bravia smart TVs, impacting users who rely on antennas or set-top boxes. Starting in late May 2026, those with compatible TV models will face a simplified TV guide. According to a support page shared by Cord Cutters News, programs may not display correctly, and only recently watched channels will show information.
Additionally, channel logos and thumbnail images will disappear from program descriptions, making it harder to identify what’s currently playing. For set-top box users, the dedicated menu will be replaced with a new “control menu,” offering pared-down functionality.
The TV guide shown in the integrated Google TV operating system will lose preview images for programs delivered via antennas, free ad-supported streaming television (FAST) channels, and some live services, which many users find handy for quickly recognizing shows.
The change affects several TV models:
- 2025 models: Bravia 8 II (XR80M2), Bravia 5 (XR50)
- 2024 models: Bravia 9 (XR90), Bravia 8 (XR80), Bravia 7 (XR70)
- 2023 models: Bravia A95L series
Sony acknowledged the inconvenience and expressed appreciation for user understanding.
Why the Changes?
Sony hasn’t provided a clear reason for these updates. However, it’s evident that the trend is moving toward on-demand streaming rather than traditional antennas and set-top boxes. Recent data supports this shift. A 2025 survey by Horowitz Research revealed that only 19% of U.S. adults still use antennas. Similarly, a 2024 study by Hub Entertainment Research showed that just 26% of participants considered a set-top box their main TV device.
This decline in usage could indicate that Sony is reallocating development resources to improve features that more users are engaging with. While the company hasn’t revealed specifics, this pivot could enhance overall user experience for streaming enthusiasts, even if it leaves some antenna users feeling neglected.
Overall, these adjustments might signal a broader industry trend where traditional TV viewing habits are evolving in response to changing consumer preferences.
