- The introduction of Dolby Vision 2, a new high dynamic range (HDR) technology, has raised questions regarding its compatibility with existing 4K Blu-ray players.
- Reports from TechRadar have revealed that so far, only Sony has confirmed that it will not be updating its Blu-ray player lineup to include support for Dolby Vision 2. In a statement, Sony said, "We do not plan to provide a software/firmware update to support Dolby Vision 2 on the current Blu-ray player lineup."
- This stance is noteworthy, particularly as Sony has not released a new standalone Blu-ray player in recent years, apart from a minor update. The upcoming PlayStation 6 is also expected to lack a 4K Blu-ray drive, casting further doubt on the future of the 4K Blu-ray format.
- Other manufacturers, such as Panasonic and Magnetar, have not responded to inquiries regarding their plans for Dolby Vision 2 support.
- Dolby Vision 2 technology is optimised for specific televisions that are equipped with modern processors. However, 4K Blu-ray players can theoretically support this new HDR format through a firmware update that allows them to transmit the appropriate data to compatible TVs.
- It is important to note that the content itself must also be encoded in Dolby Vision 2 to take full advantage of its features, meaning existing discs will not benefit unless new editions are released. Nonetheless, improvements may still be noticeable on Dolby Vision 2-ready televisions, even without a firmware update.
- The new technology promises enhanced visual experiences, including new image processing capabilities and a content recognition system aimed at delivering a more authentic representation of the creator’s vision. While Dolby Vision 2 is currently compatible with select Hisense TVs, it is expected to be adopted by a wider range of devices soon. Samsung's competing technology, HDR10+ Advanced, is also scheduled for launch this month, although initially only for select devices streaming Amazon Prime Video.
Dolby Vision 2, a new high dynamic range (HDR) technology, has sparked discussions about its compatibility with existing 4K Blu-ray players. While firmware updates could enable support, Sony has explicitly stated it will not update its current lineup.1234578910111213
In a statement, Sony said, "We do not plan to provide a software/firmware update to support Dolby Vision 2 on the current Blu-ray player lineup." This decision is significant, especially since Sony has not released a new standalone Blu-ray player recently, apart from minor updates.
The future of the 4K Blu-ray format is further questioned as the upcoming PlayStation 6 is also expected to lack a 4K Blu-ray drive.
Other manufacturers, including Panasonic and Magnetar, have not yet responded regarding their plans for Dolby Vision 2 support. Although 4K Blu-ray players could theoretically support Dolby Vision 2 through firmware updates, the content must also be encoded in the new format to fully utilize its features.6
The new technology promises enhanced visual experiences, including improved image processing capabilities and a content recognition system aimed at delivering a more authentic representation of the creator’s vision. Currently, Dolby Vision 2 is compatible with select Hisense TVs, with broader adoption expected soon. Meanwhile, Samsung's HDR10+ Advanced technology is set to launch this month, initially for select devices streaming Amazon Prime Video.
“Sony's refusal is notable as it hasn't released a new standalone player in years, and the upcoming PlayStation 6 is expected to lack a 4K Blu-ray drive. Meanwhile, Samsung's competing HDR10+ Advanced launches this month, initially for select devices streaming Amazon Prime Video.”










