The Sony Bravia 9 TVs, also known as the XR90, represent the Japanese brand's high-end Mini [abc]LED[/abc] offering for 2024. They are positioned as the flagship models in the range due to the lack of renewal of the Sony A95L QD [abc]OLED[/abc] series and the discontinuation of the Sony Z9K Ultra HD [abc]8K[/abc] series. The only references available until now were limited to two Ultra HD 4K models: the Sony 75XR90 (75", or 191 cm) and Sony 85XR90 (85", or 216 cm). It should soon be with a new reference, the Sony 65XR90 (65", or 165 cm).
Sony Bravia 9, Mini LED and luminous performances££££
Sony XR90 televisions are distinguished by a Mini LED backlighting system, called XR Backlight [abc]Master[/abc] Drive, developed in collaboration with the Sony Semiconductor Solutions Group division. According to Sony's statements, this system allows to achieve a 50% higher peak brightness compared to the Sony X95L models of the 2023 vintage, thanks to an increase in the number of backlight zones of up to 325%, although further details are absent.
Sony Bravia 9, sound quality and advanced features££££
The audio section of the Sony XR90 models, still referred to as Acoustic Multi-Audio+, integrates two additional vertical [abc]tweeters[/abc] located on the back of the screen, providing a total power of 70 W (consisting of six 10 W drivers, plus two 5 W vertical tweeters, see photo below). Support for [abc]Dolby Atmos[/abc] and Acoustic Centre Sync is also included, allowing the TV's sound system to be activated in conjunction with a Sony soundbar to expand the sound experience.
The Voice Zoom 3 process, based on [abc]artificial intelligence[/abc], identifies and amplifies human voices to ensure optimal intelligibility. This feature works in tandem with the upcoming Bravia Theatre 2024 soundbar.
Sony Bravia 9, display technologies and image processing££££
Sony XR90 Mini LED TVs benefit from a wider viewing angle thanks to X-Wide Angle technology, which preserves the integrity of colors even when viewed off-axis. In addition, the X-Anti Reflection coating is designed to minimize unwanted reflections.
The XR Cognitive Processor 2024, combined with XR Clear Image technology, improves color reproduction and object management on the screen, providing increased realism. The management of black shades is optimized, allowing the finest details to be reproduced in dark scenes.
Sony Bravia 9 specifications and compatibility££££
The XR90 TVs' specifications include a 10-bit VA LCD panel, with a native refresh rate of 100/120Hz. The XR Backlight Master Drive system enables precise modulation of brightness, reducing blooming effects. The capabilities of the XR Cognitive Processor 2024 have also helped refine the XR Super Resolution technology, ensuring sharper image texture and increased depth.
The Sony XR90 models are compatible with [abc]HDR10[/abc], [abc]HDR HLG[/abc] and [abc]HDR Dolby Vision[/abc], and incorporate advanced features such as XR Motion Clarity and XR Contrast Booster 30, delivering exceptional brightness and deep blacks.
Smart interface and features££££
Sony 2024 TVs run on the Google TV operating system, which centralizes streaming content and applications. The XR Cognitive Processor 2024 improves the ergonomics and responsiveness of the interface. In addition, the XR90 models integrate Google Assistant, allowing direct voice interaction with the TV.
The Bravia Cam camera, although optional, offers gesture control and alert features in case of viewing too close, as well as energy savings by adjusting the brightness according to the presence of the viewer.
Sony Bravia 9, streaming services and compatibility with games consoles££££
Sony XR90 TVs include the Bravia Core streaming platform, offering access to a selection of Sony Pictures films. In addition, the Molotov Grand Cinema option is available for one month, allowing access to a wide range of films and channels.
Perfect for PlayStation 5 certification, with features such as Auto [abc]HDR[/abc] Tone Mapping, allows for an optimised gaming experience. Game Menu 2 makes it easy to access game settings, while calibrated modes for Netflix and Prime Video ensure picture quality meets post-production studio standards.
Sony Bravia 9, conclusion and availability££££
The Sony 65XR90 TV is expected to be available in November. RRP is still unknown.
Reminder of the key characteristics of the Sony 65XR90 or Bravia 9 TV:
• 10-bit panel
• [abc]LCD[/abc]
panel• [abc]Ultra HD[/abc] panel [abc]4K[/abc]
• 120 Hz panel
• Processor: XR Cognitive Processor 2024
• Wide Color Gamut function
• Media gateway function [abc]UPnP[/abc] ([abc]DLNA[/abc])
• Screen Mirroring function
• Function [abc]eARC[/abc]
• Function [abc]VRR[/abc]
• Function [abc]ALLM[/abc] (Auto Low Latency Mode)
• 4K function [abc]HFR[/abc] 120
• X-Wide Angle function
• XR Motion Clarity function
• XR Smoothing function
• Calman Ready function
• Acoustic Centre Sync function
• Bravia Core function
• X-Anti Reflection function
• XR Triluminos Pro function
• Perfect for PlayStation 5 function
• XR Clear Image function
• Acoustic Multi-Audio+ function
• XR Super Resolution function
• XR Contrast Booster 30 function
• Voice Zoom 3 function
• [abc]HDR10[/abc] and [abc]HDR HLG[/abc] compatibility
• [abc]Bluetooth[/abc] compatibility
• Chromecast, Google Home, Google Assistant compatibility
• [abc]NTFS[/abc] (via [abc]USB[/abc])
• [abc]Miracast[/abc]
compatibility• [abc]HDR Dolby Vision[/abc]
compatibility• [abc]Wi-Fi[/abc] ac compatibility
• [abc]HEVC[/abc]
compatibility• [abc]NFC compatibility [/abc]
• Compatibility [abc]Dolby Atmos[/abc]
• Compatibility [abc]DTS: s : 2 [abc]HDMI[/abc] 2.1, 2 HDMI 2.0
• Multimedia [abc]AirPlay 2[/abc]
• Multimedia HomeKit
• Multimedia Works with Google Assistant
• Multimedia Google TV
• Multimedia Google Meet
• Backlight Master Drive backlight system
• Backlight Mini [abc]LED[/abc] [abc]Local Dimming[/abc]
• Dual tuner [abc]DVB-T[/abc]2
• Dual tuner [abc]DVB-C[/abc]
• Dual tuner [abc]DVB-S[/abc]2
• Sound section: 4.2.2
• Power: 70 W (6 x 10 + 2 x 5)
• Other: optional Bravia Cam camera