Sony is trimming down the features of its Bravia smart TVs next month. As of late May 2026, antenna and set-top box users will see fewer program details and thumbnail images in their TV guides. Sony’s support page notes that only recently watched channels may be shown with information, and channel logos and thumbnails for descriptions will disappear.
The move to a ‘control menu’ from the dedicated set-top box menu is expected to reduce functionality, leading to a less user-friendly experience for those who rely on these devices. The TV guide integrated into Google TV will no longer display thumbnail images, making show identification more challenging.
These changes apply to several 2025 and 2024 model Bravia TVs, including the Bravia 8 II (XR80M2) and Bravia 9 (XR90). Sony says it appreciates understanding but warns of potential inconvenience. The company’s decision suggests a shift away from traditional viewing methods towards on-demand streaming.
According to surveys, while the use of antennas and set-top boxes has decreased, many still rely on them. Nineteen percent of US adults surveyed in 2025 reported using an antenna, and 26 percent of US TV viewers in a 2024 survey said they prefer set-top boxes for watching television.
