What just happened? Initially seen as the successor to Ultra HD, the 8K TV format has faced challenges in gaining popularity. Sony, a significant supporter of this technology, is now stepping back from the market. A long-term return is possible, contingent upon wider industry changes.
Sony has discreetly confirmed that it will not be releasing new 8K TVs in the near future. The last models, the 75 and 85-inch Bravia XR Z9K, were introduced in 2022 and have been available for two years. The company has now announced that it is discontinuing this line completely. Sony stated that while a return to 8K TVs might happen eventually, the current market lacks sufficient momentum.
The remaining 8K TV models will be sold until inventory is depleted. Future models will center around high-end QD-OLED panels with 4K Ultra HD resolution, marketed under the Bravia 8 II brand. Additionally, the manufacturer is in the process of developing a 4K LCD prototype featuring RGB LED backlighting.
According to the ITU-R BT.2020 standard for 8K broadcasting, the format offers a resolution of 7680×4320 with 33.2 million pixels—doubling the linear resolution of 4K, tripling that of 1440p, and quadrupling that of 1080p. The newly launched PlayStation 5 Pro accommodates 8K video output through HDMI 2.1, yet consumer interest has been minimal, and 8K content remains limited.
The PS5 Pro’s introduction did not significantly boost interest in 8K content, and the scarce 8K TVs that still exist are priced higher compared to 4K Ultra HD or even Full HD counterparts.
For optimal performance, large 8K displays require native 8K content, as upscaling lower-resolution sources can lead to artifacts or blurriness.
Ironically, Sony is retreating from the 8K TV sector while still continuing to produce 8K native cameras that capture video at a 7680×4320 resolution. Enthusiasts wanting to get ahead on 8K content have very few alternatives. Samsung has launched large 8K TVs featuring microLED backlighting, while LG unveiled its latest 8K models in 2024 with the QNED 99 Series.
