Sony unveils 2021 “XR” OLED TVs A90J and A80J – HDMI 2.1, brighter OLED panel, more

Today, Sony introduced its new OLED TVs for 2021. The "Master" A90J series has a brighter OLED panel and will be available with up to 83 inches.  Sony is also introducing Google TV and its XR Cognitive Processor.

Sony 2021 OLED TV range
In addition to their own range of 2021 LCD TVs, Sony today introduced two new ranges of OLED TVs for 2021;  A90J and A80J.  In 2021, Sony will use the same model names throughout Europe and North America.  J refers to the 2021 generation. The company introduced its new TVs as "the first television cognitive intelligence televisions".  They will be sold as high-end XR models, and the XR monitor will be widely used to describe Sony's upgraded video and audio systems, including a new, improved video processor.  - "Powered by the XR cognitive processor, the brain of the new BRAVIA XR, TVs use an entirely new processing method that goes beyond conventional AI, designed to reproduce the ways people see and hear. When we see objects, we unconsciously focus on certain points. The cognitive intelligence-driven XR processor divides the screen into multiple zones and detects where the image's "focal point" is.While conventional AI can detect and analyze picture elements such as color, contrast and detail separately, the new XR cognitive processor can cross-analyze multiple elements at once, just as our brains do, " said Sony.


    Sony A90J 4K OLED.  Photo: Sony

Sony added that "the XR cognitive processor can also analyze the position of the sound in the signal so that the sound matches exactly what is on the screen," including the ability to convert the sound into virtual 5.1.2 channels.  The new treatment seems to contradict Sony's message to stay true to the "creator's intention".  The company objected, saying that the picture mode of the TV "Custom" will turn off most of these systems.  Sony's flagship A90J will be available in 55, 65 and 83 inches and is "the brightest OLED we've ever produced" in terms of both overall and peak brightness, the company said, without providing any numbers.  This is partly due to better cooling, he explained.  Last year's 48-inch A9 will be ported in 2021. The more affordable A80J, which will replace last year's A8 (or A85 / A87 / A89), will be available in 55, 65 and 77-inch sizes without the brighter OLED panel.


    Sony A80J 4K OLED.  Photo: Sony

HDMI 2.1 for 4K120 and VRR
One of the biggest upgrades is HDMI 2.1, which unlocks new video capabilities with consoles like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X. Sony introduced its first LCD TVs with HDMI 2.1 in 2020, but we left OLED TVs in the cold.  Both the A90J and A80J will feature two HDMI 2.1 ports, both with 4K120 support (4K at 120 frames per second), as well as eARC (enhanced audio return channel) for enhanced audio support, VRR (variable refresh rate) and ALLM (automatic Low latency mode).  VRR and ALLM will require a firmware update.  These features are aimed primarily at PC / console gamers, with the 4K120 + VRR providing smoother gameplay without tearing and ALLM allowing automatic switching to TV game mode.  Sony has highlighted new video systems such as "XR Motion Clarity" (replacing "X-Motion Clarity") and "XR Upscaling" (a new search table for improved scaling up to 4K, according to the company).  The TVs will continue to support features found in the 2020 models, including Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos, HDR10, HLG, IMAX Enhanced, Netflix Calibrated Mode and more.  In addition, the A90J and A80J are Calman Ready for easier picture calibration and can be adapted to the light in your environment through the "Environmental Optimization" feature.  The A90J and A80J are equipped with an improved version of the built-in sound system (Acoustic Surface Audio +), which uses the ultra-thin OLED panel as speakers.  There is a new front subwoofer that uses the OLED panel to create invisible low frequency sound waves.  FlatpanelsHD has not yet had a chance to hear it in action, as CES is an all-digital show this year.



Android TV becomes Google TV
Sony's 2021 models will be available with a redesigned user interface as Sony switches from Android TV to Google TV.  This is Google's new TV UI, first launched with the new Chromecast.  - "This range also features Google TV, a brand new entertainment experience that brings together movies, shows, live TV and more apps and subscriptions and organizes them just for you. Easily find something to watch with personalized recommendations and bookmarks for shows and movies in a watchlist to keep track of what to watch. Users can even add to their watchlist from their phone or laptop with Google Search, " said Sony.  Current apps available for Android TV will continue to run on Google TV, which is still built on Android.  You can find more information on switching to Google TV in our article here.  The TVs will also launch with Bravia Core, Sony's new video streaming service, which offers 4K HDR and "IMAX Enhanced" movies in "UHD BD equivalent quality with streaming up to 80 Mbps".  In addition, Sony has partnered with Apple to support AirPlay 2 for wirelessly transferring media files from iOS / macOS to the TV, as well as HomeKit, which is Apple's platform for the connected home.  HomeKit allows you to control certain features of the TV from iPhone or with Siri voice commands.  The TVs are compatible with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.  They can receive hands-free voice commands through a built-in microphone.  The Sony backlit remote control comes complete with both TV models.  Follow the links for full specifications in TV database.