Sony unveils first QD-OLED TV, also intros Mini LED models

Sony has become the first TV major to announce a QD-OLED (Quantum Dot OLED) screen for 2022. The Master Series A95K heads the brand’s extensive CES 2022 TV reveal, which also comprises Master Series Z9K 8K and X95K 4K Mini LED, Master Series A90K, and A80K 4K OLED and X90K 4K LED models.

QD OLED can deliver higher brightness and colour volume than standard OLED panels, potentially setting a new benchmark for black level depth, colour accuracy and HDR vibrancy.

This year will also see further developments to the brand’s Cognitive Processor XR processor, to better exploit the potential of QD OLED panels, the return of Sony’s XR Backlight Master Drive technology, and the adoption of Mini LED backlighting in its 8k Z9K and 4k X95K series.

The XR Backlight Master Drive has found a new lease of life controlling ultra-dense Mini LEDs, for more precise contrast and HDR presentation. The promise is of deeper black levels, more near shadow detail and enhanced mid-tone presentation.

The Master Series A95K, apart from featuring an all new QD-OLED panel, also employs XR Triluminos Max, to deliver Sony’s widest colour palette yet.

It’s not just pictures getting an upgrade this year. Acoustic Surface Audio+, for OLED models, and Acoustic Multi-Audio for LED screens, also promise an immersive audio experience, straight from the box.

Other innovations to look forward to include a new Netflix Adaptive calibrated mode, which uses environmental sensor information to automatically adjust image processing based on ambient light, and a BRAVIA CORE calibrated mode.

All 2022 Sony XR sets (X85K, X85J, X80K, X80J, XH90) have also been dubbed Perfect for PlayStation 5, with Auto HDR Tone Mapping and Auto Genre Picture Mode.

2022 will also see the return of camera modules for video comms and conferencing, albeit with a new twist or two. Sony’s new Bravia Cam supports gesture control and video chat, and will spot when viewers are no longer in front of the TV, and dim the display to save energy.

Interestingly, Bravia Cam can also be used for screen calibration. The camera recognises where users are in the room, and how far they’re sitting from the TV. It then adjusts picture parameters accordingly.

Google TV is the default smart TV platform for this year’s Sony flatscreens.