If you’re more hands-off, the TV offers some advanced auto-calibration features, including the new Prime Video auto-calibration which pulls metadata from videos. It looks pretty similar to the Professional mode for filmlike content such as Jack Ryan or The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, but when I put on the new Patton Oswalt game show The 1% it brightened the image significantly without looking oversaturated or washed out. I couldn’t test the feature for sports on Thursday Night Football, but it already seems among the best such options I’ve tried.
Solid Spoils
The Bravia 7 is fairly well appointed elsewhere, especially for gaming. The TV offers class-standard features like HDMI 2.1 support for VRR (variable refresh rate) at up to 120 Hz to provide tear-free gameplay, and ALLM (auto low latency lode) for speedy response. Sony’s game bar lets you add crosshairs and optimize several options on the fly, including a split-screen mode to watch YouTube walk-throughs onscreen. PlayStation 5 owners can also access Auto Genre Picture Mode and Auto HDR Tone Mapping to further optimize performance.
One notable drawback is, like the much pricier A95L, only two of the TV’s four HDMI ports support 4K at 120 Hz, one of which also harbors HDMI eARC for connecting a soundbar or other audio device. Cheaper options like Hisense’s U8N offer two discrete HDMI 2.1 ports, while step-up models like LG’s C4 OLED and Samsung’s QN90D and S90D OLED offer four. Inputs aside, I love using the TV for gaming. Its pristine clarity is almost distracting, evoking fine details like gold rivets glowing in the sun on a worn leather shoulder brace.
The 7’s built-in audio system is serviceable, thanks to dual woofers, dual side-mounted tweeters, and features like Voice Zoom 3 digital optimization designed to pinpoint dialog, but it’s also rather thin and sharp. I recommend buying an outboard audio device like one of our best soundbar or best bookshelf speaker picks for sound on par with the visual experience.
Other key Bravia 7 features include support for multiple HDR modes, including Dolby Vision, HLG, and HDR10 (but not its more advanced HDR10+ version), streaming over AirPlay 2 and Chromecast, and the new Eco Dashboard 2 for deep-dive energy monitoring.
Punch, Poise, and Positioning
I was immediately impressed by the Bravia 7’s accurate yet engaging picture, and in most respects, I only grew more enamored with it over time. There’s a beautiful subtlety to the way Sony’s top TVs handle everything from fine details and colors to dark corridors and gleaming HDR. The Bravia 7’s mix of quantum dots for expansive colors, advanced mini LED backlighting for excellent control, and Sony’s latest XR picture processing help it to lean into that legacy with sweet results.
The 7 doesn’t offer the full-throttle, hair-on-fire brightness of lauded value options like the Hisense U8N (8/10, WIRED Recommends) or TCL’s latest QM8 (which I have yet to test). The 7 taps out around 2,000 nits, but that kind of brightness is still plenty potent for SDR (standard dynamic range) and HDR content alike. Laser shots in sci-fi films blaze, explosions pop, and nature scenes like sparkling coral reefs are rendered with sun-drenched realism.
For years now, Bloodbornefans have wanted the popular PS4-exclusive RPGported to PC, hopefully with performance improvements and graphical options. And while FromSoftware’s president Hidetaka Miyazaki didn’t confirm that such a port is happening, he did say he’s not opposed to it and suggested that many people at the studio want a PC port to happen.
The Most Sought After Elden Ring Sword Has A Storied History
Released nearly a decade ago in 2017 exclusively for PlayStation 4, Bloodborne is one of FromSoftware’s (Dark Souls, Elden Ring) most popular and beloved games. Like many of its other games, Bloodborne is a tough-as-nails action RPG featuring intense boss battles and many secrets. However, unlike many of FromSoftware’s RPGs, Bloodborne has never been ported to other platforms. It remains stuck on PS4. That’s led to people asking over and over again for the Sony-owned Bloodborne to get a PC port. And it sounds like, while Miyazaki doesn’t have anything to announce, he seems into the idea of this fan-favorite RPG finally being playable on something other than a PS4.
In an interview with Miyazaki, PC Gamer asked the president if he would personally like to see Bloodborneported to PC one day.
“I know for a fact these guys want a Bloodborne PC port,” said Miyazaki in reference to FromSoftware staff sitting with him during the interview. However, he quickly added that if he says he wants a port he’ll “get in trouble” but that he’s not “opposed” to a PC version.
“Obviously, as one of the creators of Bloodborne, my personal, pure honest opinion is I’d love more players to be able to enjoy it,” said Miyazaki. “Especially as a game that is now coming of age, one of those games of the past that gets lost on older hardware—I think any game like that, it’d be nice to have an opportunity for more players to be able to experience that and relive this relic of the past. So as far as I’m concerned, that’s definitely not something I’d be opposed to.”
Of course, while it’s nice to hear that the president of FromSoftware wants a Bloodborne PC port, it doesn’t mean one is happening. Remember, FromSoftware doesn’t own the Bloodborne IP, Sony does. And until Sony decides to fund a port, remaster, or remake, all FromSoftware can do is vaguely go “Yeah, we want one, too!” and that’s it.
Hopefully, as we near the game’s 10th anniversary next year, Sony will realize that they have a literal goldmine on their hands and all the company has to do is post a teaser for Bloodborne on Steam and it will be flooded with pre-orders before it even shares a trailer. At the very least, we know everyone at FromSoftware is down for a port. Now we wait to see what Sony wants…
Multiversus, the Warner Bros. crossover platform fighter starring Batman, Shaggy, Arya Stark and more, is out for real this time after going into a year-long hibernation. Now that it’s back and out of beta, the fighting game community is assessing if it could have the longevity of fighting games like Super Smash Bros. And some have already realized that smaller local tournaments, which often keep the game’s scene alive, could have trouble running Multiversus. That’s because, one significant change to the free-to-play model may make it prohibitively expensive to host Multiversus tournaments. – Kenneth Shepard Read More
On May 30, 2024, Sony treated PlayStation fans to a brief-yet-packed showing of some games it has around the corner. Some of these titles are expected to arrive this year on PS5 (as well as PC), while a few others are likely to arrive next year.
In Eternights You Press R2 To Hold Hands Just Like IRL
So let’s dive into everything Sony showed off today.
Concord
PlayStation
Concord, the upcoming online first-person hero shooter, got its debut showing today with a highlight on its unique characters as well as in-engine gameplay. It’s definitely giving some witty banter, sci-fi, Marvel-esque vibes to my ears and eyes. Concord comes out on August 23, 2024.
God of War Ragnarok comes to PC on September 19, 2024
PlayStation
God of War Ragnarok is coming to PC! I’m sure you already suspected that, but we got a look at daddy Kratos smashing up baddies with some previews of its PC features, such as ultrawide support and all the major super sampling tech, and it comes with the game’s great Valhalla DLC too! Kratos’ latest adventure arrives on PC on September 19, 2024.
Dynasty Warriors Origins
DYNASTY WARRIORS: Origins – Announcement Trailer | PS5 Games
With epic melee weapon skirmishes against massive amounts of foes, Dynasty Warriors Origins looks like it’s going all in on totally unrealistic yet fully badass combat.
Infinity Nikki
Infinity Nikki – Gameplay Trailer | PS5 Games
Are you ready to walk the path of a stylist? That’s what Infinity Nikki promises, with cute outfits, fantasy vistas, platforming, and the ability to shoot little cats out of cannons!
Ballad of Antara
Ballad of Antara – Announcement Trailer | PS5 Games
With moody color themes, epic dark fantasy vibes, and some very satisfying melee weapon sound effects, Ballad of Antara is definitely worth keeping an eye on if you’re into brawls against mythic creatures in a magical realm. Ballad of Antara is expected to arrive in 2025.
Skydance’s Behemoth
Skydance’s BEHEMOTH – First Gameplay | PS VR 2 Games
Hey, remember the PS VR2? Sorry, but hey, it’s nice to see some new games coming out for Sony’s somewhat struggling headset. With both first-person sword battles and some neat mechanics with a rope weapon you can use to pull enemies and weapons around, this could prove to be a very satisfying VR experience.
Alien Rogue Incursion
Alien Rogue Incursion – First Gameplay | PS VR 2 Games
Alien Rogue Incursion aims to bring its HR Giger-inspired horror vibes to a PlayStation VR headset near you…you know, if you feel you won’t die of absolute fraking terror.
Marvel Rivals
Marvel Rivals – PlayStation Closed Beta Announce Trailer | PS5 Games
It’s like third-person Overwatch but you know, with a Marvel license or something! Joking aside, Rivals may set itself apart with its third-person action and good use of its source material.
Where Winds Meet
Where Winds Meet – Announce Trailer | PS5 Games
With a trailer focusing on some tense and speedy-lookin’ one-on-one showdowns, Where Winds Meet is currently in development for PS5.
Until Dawn
Until Dawn – Gameplay Trailer | PS5 Games
Supermassive’s 2015 interactive teen horror movie is being rebuilt and upgraded for current hardware. Until Dawn’s PS5 and PC trailer at this month’s State of Play wasn’t short on gruesome contraptions and hellish ways to see its characters murdered.
Path of Exile 2
Path of Exile 2 – Console Announcement Trailer | PS5 Games
Grinding Gear Games’ Path of Exile 2 is set to arrive on PS5 in 2024. Cast into a dark fantasy world tortured by monsters and disease, players will have to take on the role of fearless warriors seeking victory and, of course, better and better loot. Keep this one on your radar if Diablo 4 hasn’t been doing it for you. Path of Exile2 arrives on PS5 via Early Access in late 2024.
Silent Hill 2
Silent Hill 2 – Release Date Trailer | PS5 Games
Today we got a closer look at the upcoming remake of horror classic Silent Hill 2. Complete with a very Resident Evil 4-inspired camera set up and gruesome beasts, time will tell if this remake lives up to the hype when it launches on October 8, 2024.
Monster Hunter Wilds
Monster Hunter Wilds – 1st Trailer | PS5 Games
We finally got a real look at the next entry in the beloved Monster Hunter franchise. Yes, there are cute Palicos as well as menacing beasts. Tonight’s trailer showed off some of the game’s world too, which sports sandstorms and plenty of open space to engage in battle with creatures while riding aboard your bird mount. The game is expected to arrive in 2025.
Astro Bot
ASTRO BOT – Announcement Trailer | PS5 Games
Hope you weren’t tired of our pal Astro! Looking far more ambitious and elaborate than the delightful PS5 pack-in game Astro’sPlayroom and absolutely packed with cameos from throughout PlayStation history to trigger your brand nostalgia, this definitely looks like it’ll rise above the status of novelty to be something rather interesting. Astro Bot arrives on September 6.
And that wraps everything we saw at tonight’s State of Play. It was a short but sweet showing of some neat-looking games coming to the PS5.
The Xperia 1 Mk. VI has an upgraded zoom camera with an impressive 85mm to 170mm (3.5x to 7x) optical zoom range. It also comes with the AI autofocus tracking from Sony’s Alpha cameras. Its 1080×2340 OLED display with variable refresh rate, 5000mAh battery, and Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip should make for a phone that can last 2 days between charges.
Sony has named existing company veterans Hermen Hulst and Hideaki Nishino as the new heads of PlayStation. Hulst will take over and run a new Studio Business Group while Nishino is in charge of the Platform Business Group. The division of roles replaces former CEO of Sony Interactive Entertainment Jim Ryan, who retired earlier this year, and comes as Sony searches for its next PlayStation 5 blockbusters amid cost-cutting and cancellations.
Thank You, PS Plus, For Making My Backlog Even Bigger
“Sony Interactive Entertainment is a dynamic and growing business that delivers incredible entertainment experiences through the connection of content and technology,” interim SIE CEO Hiroki Totoki said in a press release. “These two leaders will have clear responsibilities and will manage strategic direction to ensure the focus remains on deepening engagement with existing PlayStation users and expanding experiences to new audiences.” Both will continue reporting to Totoki who is also Sony’s President, COO and CFO.
Originally the head of Guerrilla Games, maker of Killzone and Horizon Zero Dawn, Hulst was promoted to head of PlayStation Studios in 2019 following the departure of Shawn Layden. He’s responsible for overseeing Sony’s first-party game development, including hits like Spider-Man 2 and God of War Ragnarök. Nishino was previously in charge of PlayStation platform technology and experiences, which he will continue to lead, in addition to now being in charge of third-party relations and commercial operations. Both men take over their new roles on June 1.
Ryan announced he was stepping down from PlayStation after decades with the company last fall. Earlier this year, Sony announced a series of cost-cutting measures, including hundreds of layoffs and project cancellations at its studios, and the closure of London Studio. The changes come as big-budget game makers try to negotiate spiraling development costs and a stagnating console gaming market. Sony’s big annual spring PlayStation Showcase is rumored to be happening later this month, though the company previously confirmed that no major new sequels were planned to release in the current fiscal year.
“I am thrilled to lead the Studio business group and continue to build on our success with PlayStation 5, while preparing for the future,” Hulst said in a press release. “The video game industry is one of the largest entertainment industries in the world and has been built on the marriage of content and technology, and I look forward to continuing to push the boundaries of play and entertainment.”
When Sony entered the over-the-counter hearing aid market two years ago, it did so with a pair of products: the CRE-C10 and the more expensive CRE-E10. I was dazzled by the minuscule C10—it’s still one of the hearing aid options I recommend the most—and assumed the E10 would be even more impressive. Now that I’ve finally landed a pair of E10 aids to test, I can assure you that the E10 isn’t so much an upgrade to the C10 as it is a wholly different class of product with its own pros and cons.
While both the C10 and E10 rely on an in-ear earbud-like design conceit, their general approach is considerably different. While the 1-gram C10 fits nearly entirely inside the ear, invisible enough to require a small retrieval wire to remove it, the 2.94-gram E10 is much more bulbous and visible. It looks more like a standard Bluetooth earbud than any other hearing aid I’ve tested, filling the concha with its rounded body. Since, as the old saying goes, all concha are not created equal, your comfort level while wearing these hearing aids may vary considerably. In my ears, the fit was snug but not tight—comfortable for wearing for a few hours but not all day. Sony provides just four pairs of eartips you can experiment with to help improve the fit.
Photograph: Sony
The other big difference between the C10 and E10 is that while the C10 uses replaceable hearing aid batteries, the E10 features a more common rechargeable battery. The extra size of the device lets the E10 work for up to 26 hours (without streaming). The USB-C connectible and Qi-compatible charger provides enough juice for an additional two to three recharges.
Despite their larger size, the CRE-E10 aids do not feature any external controls, which is understandable because controls would be hard to access based on the way the aids sit in the ear. Instead, all controls are situated in Sony’s Hearing Control app (Android, iOS). This is the same app used for the CRE-C10, so I already had it installed, but I ran into immediate problems because the old aids were still registered to the app.
Photograph: Sony
To set up new aids, you have to remove the old ones from the app. To do that, Hearing Control requires you to enter a code sent to your registered email address. Naturally, I never received the code, so I couldn’t install the new set of aids. Eventually, Sony tech support instructed me to delete the app altogether and set it up again with a different email address—perhaps not the most elegant solution, but it worked to get me up and running.
Sony has delisted Helldivers 2 in more than 170 countries that don’t have dedicated regions in PSN, which was the main argument against the change. These countries no longer have the ability to buy the game or activate a retail key. Steam is refunding the game even with more than 100hrs of playtime.
Linking to a random third-party account when you just want to play a video game you paid for is truly annoying and, honestly, keeps me from even launching certain games by certain publishers who shall remain nameless. Helldivers 2 players are experiencing this frustration right now, as the PC version of the massively popular third-person shooter .
New players will be required to link both accounts on May 6, but pre-existing players have until June 4 before the requirement kicks in. Sony says that forcing people to link to a PSN account helps “protect players from griefing and abuse by enabling the banning of players that engage in that type of behavior.” Ah, the popular “few bad apples” excuse.
This was always the plan, according to publisher Sony, but “technical issues” upon launch forced a delay in the linking mandate. In other words, when the PC version came out on February 8, you could just play it like any other game as nature intended, but now you gotta do the whole “insert credentials” rigamarole. This can be time-consuming, particularly if you don’t already have a PSN account or if you’re playing on something like a Steam Deck. Also, some regions where Helldivers 2 is available on PC .
A community manager in the H2 Discord has said this is Sony’s decision and the studio is still waiting on info for people living in regions that don’t support PSN accounts. pic.twitter.com/mWKtzanlBe
This has royally pissed off PC players, though it’s worth noting that it’s free to make a PSN account. This has led to and many promises to abandon the game when the linking becomes a requirement, . The frustration over adding yet another barrier to entry after downloading an 80GB game to fears that the PSN account would likely be hacked. While it is true that Sony was the target of a huge hack that impacted 77 million PSN accounts, that was back in 2011. Obama was still in his first term. Also worth noting? , impacting 35 million accounts.
So maybe gamers are taking things a bit too far here and many are likely to not follow through with promises to stop playing Helldivers 2. That doesn’t change the fact that account linking is annoying. On the plus side, Sony recently promised to as soon as possible, and Helldivers 2 was a day-one release on both Steam and PlayStation consoles. That’s a neat little promise to keep, now where’s Spider-Man 2?
“It’s time to reintroduce HDR,” according to Sony’s chief distinguished engineer, Toshiyuki Ogura, who has been working with and developing HDR (high dynamic range) technology since its inception. Speaking at Sony’s home theater spring showcase in March, Ogura was referring in part to the company’s latest LED TV tech, which Sony hopes will help reshape the future of HDR and bring viewers closer to the intent of creators.
Through a whirlwind of demos across the sprawling Sony Pictures production lot, the event provided reviewers like me an unprecedented look behind the scenes, and behind the actual screens, of Sony’s new 2024 home theater creations. Highlights included Sony’s blazing new flagship mini LED TV—the Bravia A9—alongside three other new 2024 TVs that represent a subtly different approach over last year’s lineup.
We also got a peek at other new gear, from Sony’s updated soundbar fleet to its powerful new professional monitor, the HX3110, designed to set the standard for movie and TV mastering for years to come. Here are some first impressions of the latest from Sony Home Theater.
What’s in a Name?
Sony told us part of its goal this year was to streamline and simplify its 2024 home theater lineup. As part of that process, Sony’s best OLED and LED TVs will no longer be separated by their A-series and X-series naming conventions respectively. Instead, all of the new TVs—OLED and LED—will have the A-series moniker.
The new flagship A9 mini LED TV sits at the top of the new lineup, replacing last year’s X95L. Below that is the update of last year’s A80L OLED TV, now called the Bravia A8. Next is the Bravia A7, another new mini LED TV, and finally the cheapest of the new brood, the A3 LED TV. In a surprise move, Sony’s flagship A95L OLED TV (8/10, WIRED Recommends) won’t get an update, but will remain available as an A9 alternative.
I’m all for simpler names, but I’d argue the new system is actually more confusing for buyers, with no easy way to differentiate between OLED and LED. I even got the A7 mini LED and the A8 OLED TVs confused in one demo, naturally expecting the step-down LED TV to come directly after the A9 in the batting order. The A95L, meanwhile, seems adrift with no numeric connection.
While I can’t speak to Sony’s intent, the jumbling of the opposing panel technologies comes as the brand seems to be leaning away from its outsourced OLED TV panels and into the brightness wars with its housemade LED and mini LED panels. We’ll have to see how it all plays out—the new mini LED TVs look quite impressive so far—but I expect some head-scratching from shoppers this year.
The New Hotness
Sony’s latest mini LED TVs offer multiple improvements over last year, including increased brightness and more dimming zones for better backlight control. But before we saw the end result, Sony gave us a look behind the curtain to show that its new backlights are not only brighter, but also better at understanding content.
It’s not as hard to buy a new PlayStation 5 as it used to be, but its capabilities are still impressive. The cybernetic clamshell tower of a console is packed to the gills with killer hardware. It can run games in native 4K, hit frame rates in excess of 120 frames per second, and output video at 120 hertz for that ultra-silky-smooth look and feel.
Still, not everything you need comes in the box. A few more add-ons will make your game session that much easier and enjoyable. Sony’s DualShock controller is one of the best game controllers available, and the PS5 is the first console that can really take advantage of a great home theater setup. To that end, we’ve compiled our favorite PS5 accessories, including a few luxury picks for those of you looking to turn your living room into a cathedral for your new PS5.
Updated March 2024: We added the PlayStation Portal, PlayStation 5 Covers, SteelSeries Arctis 7P+, LG C3, WD Black SN770 SSD, WD P4 Gaming Drive, Yamaha ATS-2090 soundbar, and updated links and prices throughout.
We’re at the stage in the evolution of the TV where it’s pretty difficult to buy a bad one, but at the same time, it can be tricky to pick out the perfect model from the many options available. Every year, a swathe of new sets come out, which means the current bunch gets knocked down in price, giving you an even larger selection to consider.
Here, we’ll highlight some of our absolute favorites from the television sets you can buy in 2024—in no particular order—and explain some of the key technologies and specs you need to know about. As we go through the year, more sets and models will join these ones, and we’ll make changes to this list as needed.
LG G3
Image: LG
Available sizes: 55, 65, 77, 83 inches
Display tech: OLED / 4K
Starting price: $2,500
The LG G3 is a simply stunning TV set that’s undoubtedly one of the best televisions you can buy right now. It’s got LG’s superb OLED technology, meaning fantastic contrast and ultra-deep blacks, and it can make almost any video source look like a million dollars.
Speaking of a million dollars, these models aren’t cheap but worth the investment. The top-tier HDR handling and anti-reflective coating on the display add to the overall impressiveness, and everything from sports to movies is capably handled.
The four HDMI 2.1 ports will interest gamers too – they’re able to run a 4K resolution at 120Hz, with support for VRR and ALLM – and the sound doesn’t let this set down either. There aren’t many reasons not to seriously consider this for your next TV upgrade.
Samsung QN95C
Image: Samsung
Available sizes: 55, 65, 75, 85 inches
Display tech: Mini-LED / 4K
Starting price: $3,000
There’s been a lot of time and effort put into the Samsung QN95C, and it shows, no matter what size you go for. With more than 1,300 local dimming zones and a gorgeous mix of color, brightness, and contrast levels, it’s almost like a Mini-LED that thinks it’s an OLED.
Samsung has packed a lot of tech into this TV, with many fancy-sounding names attached—like the Neural Quantum Processor, for example—but all you really need to know is that this TV produces picture and motion quality worthy of the set’s flagship status.
You have strong HDR performance here, an impressive 4.2.2-channel speaker layout, and four HDMI 2.1 ports that can cope with the 4K/120Hz output of the best game consoles. We also like Samsung’s slick and straightforward smart TV interface.
TCL QM8
Image: TCL
Available sizes: 65, 75, 85, 98 inches
Display tech: Mini-LED / 4K
Starting price: $1,700
The TCL QM8‘s sizes range from a giant 98 inches to a small 98 inches, so of course, pick the one that suits your available space and your available budget. But whatever the size, it’s difficult to beat this Mini-LED TV for value, no matter what you’re using it to watch.
You’ll often see this television advertised with a football on screen, a nod to the strength of the screen’s handling of anything that moves fast. It’s good for gaming, too, with its high brightness levels, low input lag, and low response time, which are particularly noteworthy.
We’ve noticed that the TCL QM8 is getting cheaper as time has passed, meaning it’s becoming even better for money than initially. Add a decent sound setup and a more than decent build quality and design, and it earns its place here.
Hisense U7K
Image: Hisense
Available sizes: 55, 65, 75, 85 inches
Display tech: Mini-LED, 4K
Starting price: $630
Most people who’ve used the Hisense U7K have raved about it, and it’s not hard to see why: It produces a rich, clean, fluid picture for everything from movies to shows to sports, and it comes in at a price that undercuts most comparable sets.
As a mid-range model, it’s not going to touch the high-end specs of the flagship TVs, but the Hisense U7K still has a lot to offer: a refresh rate of up to 144Hz on two of the four HDMI ports on the back, for example, as well as support for VRR and all the key HDR standards.
Color quality and uniformity are excellent, and the Google TV interface has everything you need regarding streaming apps, including some. We’re fans of the aesthetics offered by the Hisense U7K, too—right down to the tall, narrow remote.
LG C3
Image: LG
Available sizes: 42, 48, 55, 65, 77 and 83 inches
Display tech: OLED / 4K
Starting price: $1,400
We all have different needs and tastes when it comes to TVs, but there’s a good case to be made that the LG C3 is currently the best television for most people, thanks to its top-tier OLED display tech and very reasonable price point.
All four of the port connections support HDMI 2.1, so gamers needing 4K/120Hz, VRR, and ALLM will be pleased. The virtual surround sound goes up to a 9.1.2 channel system. There’s also support for Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HLG, so HDR is certainly well covered.
It’s the actual experience of viewing movies and shows that matters most, though, and in this regard, the LG C3 is excellent—especially for the price you’re paying. It doesn’t quite reach the heights of the LG G3 and its cutting-edge images, but it’s also significantly cheaper.
Samsung S95C
Image: Samsung
Available sizes: 55, 65, 77 inches
Display tech: OLED / 4K
Starting price: $2,500
Samsung has put just about everything it’s got into the Samsung S95C, and it’s a winning combination of specs, design, and price. It doesn’t come cheap strictly, but you’re getting Samsung’s best TV know-how, including its Quantum Dot-enhanced OLED display tech.
The TV stands out in the most critical areas: peak brightness, color range, and contrast levels. In addition, all the key HDR standards are supported (aside from Dolby Vision), as well as four HDMI 2.1 ports and 4.2.2 channel audio.
Whether you’re watching live sports, the latest movies, or video scaled up from a lower-resolution source, the picture quality is superb in all aspects—from the clarity of the details to the balance of the colors to the crispness of quickly moving scenes.
Sony A95L
Image: Sony
Available sizes: 55, 65, 77 inches
Display tech: OLED / 4K
Starting price: $2,800
Read through any review of the Sony A95L you can find online, and you’ll soon realize this is a TV that wows everyone who comes across it. It offers a combination of sound and vision quality that’s a delight, no matter what you want to spend your time watching.
Of particular note are the high peak brightness levels, the uniformity of the colors displayed by the panel, and the crisp and rich audio. Everything about the set stands out, though only two of the four HDMI slots support the latest 2.1 standard.
The Sony A95L has a high asking price, but sometimes it’s worth paying for the best—and this is one of those times. As with other Sony sets, Google TV is on board, which could be just about the best option out there in terms of integrated smart software.
TCL S4
Image: TCL
Available sizes: 43, 50, 55, 65, 70, 75, 85 inches
Display tech: LED, 4K
Starting price: $280
When we talk about the best products in a particular category, the most expensive models are usually the ones that get mentioned—offering the highest quality components and the best possible specs. Not everyone has the budget to afford the best in class, however.
For many people, the best TV will be the best one they can get for the lowest price, and that’s where sets like the TCL S4 come in. Nothing is to set it apart except that it consistently produces a great picture for little money in relative terms.
This television offers a host of different screen sizes and a sharp 4K resolution. It handles contrast and reflections really well. The key selling point is the price, though, and we don’t think anyone who buys it will have any complaints.
Samsung QN900C
Image: Samsung
Available sizes: 65, 75, 85 inches
Display tech: Mini-LED / 8K
Starting price: $5,000
8K televisions are by no means hitting the mainstream yet, but 4K has been the standard for a long time now, and eventually, the time will come for 8K. The Samsung QN900C is ahead of the game in this respect, though you need a big chunk of change to be able to afford it.
With deep blacks and minimal blooming, this set rivals the best OLED technology in terms of its picture, and you also get a peak brightness of 4,000 nits and expert HDR handling. Pictures consistently look fantastic, and upscaling to 8K is handled fantastically well.
A separate connection box handles four HDMI 2.1 ports—that means just a couple of cables leading to the actual TV, and with its super-thin frames, it’s a TV that’s easy on the eye as well—a flagship set in every sense of the word, with 8K support.
Sony A90K
Image: Sony
Available sizes: 42, 48 inches
Display tech: OLED / 4K
Starting price: $1,300
The Sony A90K is a set that sits somewhere in the middle of Sony’s range, but the trade-offs it makes are sensible ones. It’s a model that we think is likely to appeal to people who want to get maximum bang for their buck with their next upgrade.
It also comes in a smaller size than a lot of TVs you’ll see nowadays, so it’s suitable for rooms that don’t have space for giant sets. You still get the benefits of OLED technology here, so you can expect top-tier color and contrast if not best-in-class brightness levels.
There are four HDMI sockets here, two of which offer HDMI 2.1 (with support for 4K/120Hz input, VRR, and ALLM). As usual, the Sony processor fitted here is very adept at image processing, ensuring a crisp and vibrant image no matter what sources are connected.
Roku Plus
Image: Roku
Available sizes: 55, 65, 75 inches
Display tech: QLED / 4K
Starting price: $500
Why buy a Roku dongle or box when you can buy a Roku TV? Well known for being one of the best smart TV interfaces around, with support for just about every streaming app out there and then some, the Roku Plus series packs all of that inside a television.
It’s not just about the software here, though, because you also get a QLED panel capable of producing a perfect picture. Images have a lot of life and vibrancy to them, with well-balanced colors and impressive HDR handling across the board.
The Roku Plus will particularly appeal to those shopping on a budget because, relatively speaking, you can pick this TV up for not much money at all. You miss out on some features—the four HDMI slots use 2.0, not 2.1—but it’s still excellent value for money.
Amazon Fire TV Omni
Image: Amazon
Available sizes: 43, 50, 55, 65, 75
Display tech: QLED
Starting price: $400
Speaking of televisions with familiar interfaces, the Amazon Fire TV Omni uses the same software that you’ll find on Amazon’s streaming sticks and boxes. If you find that interface appealing and watch a lot of Prime Video, this could be for you.
We like the wide choice of screen sizes here, we like the simple yet stylish design, and we want the way this TV renders movies, shows, and sports. Okay, it’s not quite at the level of the flagships, but then again, you’re paying a lot less to get it in your home.
HDR is well managed, images are typically bright and fluid, and, of course, Amazon Alexa is baked right in (so you can easily ask questions about what you’re watching). This set has four HDMI inputs, though only one of those supports HDMI 2.1.
XGIMI Horizon Ultra
Image: XGIMI
Available sizes: Up to 200 inches
Display tech: Projector / 4K
Starting price: $1,700
If you don’t need a television or a projector, the classy XGIMI Horizon Ultra will serve you very well. It’s been earning a lot of praise for the high quality of its 4K picture, though it certainly doesn’t come cheap.
Everything about this projector looks premium and stylish, right down to the remote control and the sliding door mechanism that reveals the actual projector. Sound is superbly handled here as well, with some engineering help from Harman Kardon.
Assuming you have the wall or projector screen space to handle it, the XGIMI Horizon Ultra will produce bright, sharp, and evenly balanced images. It has two HDMI 2.1 ports and supports attaching USB devices and connecting to the web directly.
Epson Home Cinema 5050UB
Image: Epson
Available sizes: Up to 300 inches
Display tech: Projector / 4K
Starting price: $3,000
You get a certain amount of peace of mind with an Epson projector—the company has been making these devices for a long, long time—and the Epson Home Cinema 5050UB has proved a popular 4K projector choice with both users and professionals.
Brightness rises to a fantastic 2,600 lumens, while the dynamic contrast ratio of 1,000,000:1 also stands out. The projector can generate pictures up to 300 inches, corner to corner, so your home movie nights can be ultra-immersive.
The Epson Home Cinema 5050UB, which has two HDMI 2.0 ports, superbly handles everything from HDR to color management, from motion handling to peak brightness. However, it does not have integrated sound, so you’ll need external speakers.
BenQ X500i
Image: BenQ
Available sizes: Up to 215 inches
Display tech: Projector / 4K
Starting price: $1,700
Just about anything you choose to pipe through the BenQ X500i will look great on a wall or projector screen. If a projector suits you better than a television set, it’s definitely one of the top options out there—especially if you’re using it for gaming.
With 2,200 lumens on offer, support for refresh rates up to 120Hz, and two HDMI 2.0 ports, the projector is strong in every area. That extends to the software, too: Android TV is built right in, so you don’t need to connect anything else to get to your streaming apps.
Most importantly, this projector produces really high-quality pictures, with sharpness, color, and motion all expertly handled. We also like the preset video modes available here, which adjust the projector’s settings based on what you’re viewing.
Sony’s PlayStation VR 2 is barely a year old, and it appears it’s not catching on like the PS5 when it launched in 2020. There are so many PSVR2 headsets unsold that Sony put the production of new units on hold, according to a Bloomberg report Monday.
Since its launch in Feb. 2023, Sony produced approximately 2 million PSVR2 units, each with a price tag of $550. However, the virtual reality headset has yet to take off with only 300,000 sold in the weeks after launch, as reported by Bloomberg last year.
It doesn’t come as much of a surprise. The PSVR 2 is limited to just the PS5, which means it’s up to the console’s library to entice people into buying the expensive hardware. While the PS5 has some great games, there aren’t many VR games to get excited about. So far, the most recommended games for news PSVR2 owners are VR versions of games already released on the console such as Resident Evil Village, No Man’s Sky, and Gran Tourismo 7.
There’s also the issue of the competition. The Meta Quest 3 comes at a slightly lower price point, but it works with PCs, opening it up to more games and applications. Then there’s the Apple Vision Pro, which at $3,500 is priced way higher than the PSVR2 but has taken up the spotlight in the mixed-reality space.
Even with lackluster sales of its PSVR2, Sony did reveal a new “xtended” reality headset at this year’s Consumer Electronic Show back in January. The new hardware featuring a flip-up visor is a joint venture with Siemens. This headset, however, isn’t intended for gaming and instead targets businesses and professionals looking to model 3D environments.
The latest installment in Columbia Pictures‘ Tom Hardy-led Venom franchise now has an official title and an earlier release date.
Director Kelly Marcel‘s Venom: The Last Dance hits theaters Oct. 25, Sony announced Tuesday. Starring Hardy, Juno Temple and Chiwetel Ejiofor, the film had been untitled and moves up two weeks from its previous release date of Nov. 8.
In addition to helming the feature, Marcel also wrote the script, with the story credited to herself and Hardy. Hardy, Marcel, Avi Arad, Matt Tolmach, Amy Pascal and Hutch Parker serve as producers.
Hardy returns as the Marvel antagonist that he originated in 2018’s Ruben Fleischer-directed Venom. Andy Serkis took over directing duties on the 2021 follow-up Venom: Let There Be Carnage. Marcel is making her feature directorial debut after earning writing credits on both earlier movies.
This will now be the third Venom film to hit theaters in October, and the pre-Halloween space has worked out nicely for the franchise. The first movie surpassed $850 million globally, while the sequel crossed the $500 million mark worldwide.
Hardy took to Instagram in November to announce that the film, billed as the final one in the series, had resumed production after taking a break due to last year’s actors strike. The project had initially been planned for a June 2024 release but was later moved to November on account of the labor stoppage.
In his November post, Hardy referred to the film as the “last dance” and added that the work “doesn’t feel as hard when you love what you do and when you know you have great material and the support at all sides, of a great team.”
Venom: The Last Dance is the latest title in the Sony Pictures Universe of Marvel Characters. It follows Sony’s release of Madame Web, which stars Dakota Johnson and Sydney Sweeney and has underperformed since hitting theaters last month.
Catering to the needs and lifestyle of the Next-Generation, Sony Philippines brings a new era of entertainment and technology as it features top-of-the-line products and gadgets in its interactive event, the Next-Gen XP, at the Mega Fashion Hall in SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City.
The event showcased Sony’s latest line of speakers, cameras, TVs, and headphones in awe-inspiring interactive installations, along with fun activities, the hippest performances from the internationally acclaimed dance crew A-Team, up-and-coming next-gen dance sensation Carlos Serrano III, and special performances from P-pop Female Alpha G22 and Wish Breakthrough Artist of the Year 2024, JOSH CULLEN.
The theme “Next-Gen XP” is an homage to today’s youth culture, as Sony, being a trusted brand and leader in technology, continues to innovate to meet the updated demands of each generation, empowering the consumers in their entertainment and productivity needs.
“Sony has always aimed to inspire younger generations to pursue their passions, whether it’s music, travel, gaming, or anything else. Our purpose at Sony is to support your dreams with the power of technology, creating experiences that move many hearts, and deliver them to people around the world through our products, making people’s lives full of inspiration,” Nobuyoshi Otake, president and managing director of Sony Philippines.
Experience the Next-Generation with Sony
The main feature of the event was experiential booths dedicated to showcasing Sony’s next-gen products and their integration into various lifestyles. The experiential booths were intended to make the event more engaging with the participants with an immersive installation that allows guests to see each product in different lifestyle scenarios. Participants in the event were able to witness the versatility of Sony’s technology; whether traveling, relaxing at a coffee shop, chilling with friends at the beach, or partying at the dance studio.
Each booth featured a next-gen Sony product that was fit for every lifestyle. The inviting Dance Studio booth for all partygoers featured the Sony’s SRS-XV800 Wireless Party Speaker which is equipped with Omni-directional sound that allows audio to fill an entire room, such as a big dance studio.
MJ Arda, from the award-winning, worldwide dance crew A-Team, shared the team’s experience with the SRS-XV800 and Sony’s next-generation line of wireless speakers, the X-Series. “When we train, we want to ensure that we are in the zone through the audio we hear. For us, dancing is all about emotions, creating connections with the audience, and conveying a message. Without the initial lift provided by the audio we hear, we cannot set the mood. But with the X-Series, every time the sound emanates from it, we hear every bit of what we need,” he shared.
Along with MJ, dancer and choreographer Joshua Decena also shared his thoughts on Sony’s X-Series speakers. “We have multiple studios, which makes the X-series very helpful since we can conveniently bring them anywhere. Its portability doesn’t compromise sound quality either; a single speaker such as the SRS-XV900 can even cover an entire court, ensuring we still feel the bass,” he explained.
For those who love outdoor vibes, the Beach Party booth showcases the SRS-XP500 and the SRS-XG300 speakers, which have ratings of water resistance, perfect for bringing the music to a seaside celebration. No beach party is complete without someone recording the experience with the featured A7C II camera, a camera packed with cutting-edge capture technology that allows one to capture both beach photos and videos in high resolution.
The hero product for the Travel Booth is none other than the WH-1000XM5 Wireless Noise-Canceling Headphones, equipped with industry-leading noise-canceling technology that lets one have a peaceful train commute without the interruption of those noisy train tracks.
Digital creator and tech reviewer Isa Rodriguez of Isa Knows Tech also commented on how Sony’s headphones could be a partner for one’s daily life. “I like living my life with background music! Doing what we do, we travel a lot for coverage and events, so whether it be me vibing, traveling, or editing audio that I just shot, this comes in handy,” she shared. “Sony offers industry-leading noise cancellation, and they don’t say it lightly; that is a fact, and that is something I can attest to,” Isa added, explaining why she keeps choosing Sony’s WF-1000XM5.
For multifaceted influencer and lifestyle content creator Yael Arevalo, Sony’s wireless headphones like the WH-CH520 aren’t just handy for traveling; they’re also invaluable for content creation. “If you’re seeking a fashionable and aesthetic device, I highly recommend Sony’s WH-CH520! It’s affordable for everyone, yet it delivers the quality that can elevate your lifestyle,” he shared.
For those traveling to the city for the first time, the ZV1-II camera, another feature in the Travel booth, is equipped with a wide-angle 18mm that lets travelers shoot a wider field, offering the opportunity to take wider cityscapes.
The star device featured in the Next-Gen XP’s Café booth is the ZV-E10 camera, which allows one to take beautiful images with intricate bokeh effects.
Fashion, film, and art content creator Jaz Reyes emphasized the importance of having high-quality equipment, such as the ZV-E10, to inspire her to create daily content. “Good quality ideas have to match the equipment you use. Whether it’s audio or video, both are crucial aspects that need to be captured well. What’s great is Sony consistently upgrades their equipment to match the level of creativity we envision,” she explained.
Also featured in the Café booth is the SRS-XE300 speaker which has a Line Diffuser that lets the audio travel far, perfect for filling an entire cafe with ambient music. Complimenting the cafe aesthetic is the WH-CH520, Sony’s lightweight headphones with a trendy design that is perfect for one’s quaint business casual look.
Rising content creator, Aimee Yap, shares how she uses Sony’s audio products, like the WH-CH520, in her daily life. “I utilize it for nearly every aspect of my day – be it commuting, indulging in video content, adding a touch of fashion flair, and particularly during editing sessions. It’s comfortable and lightweight, reducing fatigue during extended use,” she commented.
Participants who joined the raffle and social media contests were also able to get a chance to bring home some of the featured products in the event as well, such as WF-C500 Truly Wireless Headphones, the WF-C700 Truly Wireless Headphones, the WI-C100 Wireless In-Ear Headphones, the SRS-XP500 Portable Wireless Speaker, and the SRS-XG300 Portable Wireless Speaker.
Next-Gen Performances at Mega Fashion Hall
The up-and-coming next-gen dance sensation Carlos Serrano III
as he kicks off the exhilarating performance lineup
P-pop Female Alphas G22 graced the stage with
girl power energy, performing their banger hits
The award-winning, worldwide dance crew A-Team as they
take center stage for an electrifying dance performance
The Next-Gen event would not have been complete without the exciting performances from some of the most coveted performers in the country. Turning up the fun was the world-renowned dance crew A-Team and their electrifying dance performance featuring the next-gen party speakers, the Sony X-Series, followed by the impressive dance skills of dancer-choreographer Carlos Serrano III.
Guests were also welcomed with girl power through the rising P-Pop girl group G22 composed of AJ, Alfea, and Jaz, performing hit songs such as “BANG!”, “Boomerang,” and “Loka.”
Singer, rapper, songwriter, and avid gamer JOSH CULLEN of SB19,
captivated the crowd as performs his hit solo singles
To cap the party, JOSH CULLEN, a distinguished member of the phenomenal P-Pop group SB19, filled the Next-Gen XP event with his captivating presence while performing his hit solo single, “Wild Tonight” along with other songs, “Sofa” and “Get Right”.
The Sony Next-Gen XP event also marked the first-ever collaboration between Sony Philippines and Sony Music. “Sony Music is thrilled to collaborate with Sony Philippines under the One Sony initiative. The exciting Next-Gen line of audio, imaging, and video equipment is a perfect match for our efforts at Sony Music to bring world-class Filipino entertainment content to all music lovers. We look forward to even more fruitful partnerships in the near future,” shared Roslyn Pineda, General Manager of Sony Music Entertainment Philippines.
Sony has proven how their line of headphones, TVs, cameras, and speakers can be tailored towards any lifestyle in any setting. Today’s generation, known for their multitasking and the need to soul-search, is always in need of something they can use in their ever-changing lifestyles. This is the main concept of Sony’s “Next-Generation”, bringing innovation to a generation always changing, and always evolving. Technology should not just do one thing, and Sony’s mission is to make technology malleable to all types of people, making their lives easier and their dreams achievable.
Learn more about what is in store at Sony. Visit Sony’s official pages and stay tuned for more updates and exciting news. Visit Sony Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok!
Sony is currently running a pretty awesome sale for a number of its first-party games, particularly those in the action genre. Whether you’re looking to check out Nathan Drake’s swan song in Uncharted 4, Sam Porter Bridges’ strange trip through the apocalypse in Death Stranding, or Kratos’ dramatic shift into sad dad mode in 2018’s God of War, there’s a ton here to check out.
Most of these deals are for PS4 versions, many of which you can upgrade to the PS5 version either for free or at a small cost. All of these deals run from now until April 1, 2024.
We also threw in a list of action-adjacent games you may wish to check out as well.
Sony Philippines has officially launched the BURANO Camera in the Philippines, Sony’s latest addition to the CineAlta digital cinema camera lineup that introduces a new era in cinematography. Professional filmmakers, aspiring film students, and photography enthusiasts alike were given the opportunity to witness Sony’s vision to create an innovative, next-generation digital cinema camera that aims to redefine the cinema shooting experience.
Live demonstration of the Sony BURANO camera
Launched in Green Sun Makati, BURANO was unveiled to participants from all over the film industry and academe. Present as well were internationally renowned cinematographer, director, and producer O Sing-Pui, along with award-winning cinematographer and Sony Alpha professional JA Tadena, sharing their takes on high-quality cinematography that underlined Sony’s contribution to redefining the cinema shooting experience with the BURANO’s next-generation features. The launch was moderated by Sony Product Expert and commercial director Nigel Laxamana. Moreover, participants were able to learn quick tips from the guest speakers through the demonstrations as well as touch-and-try sessions.
The BURANO features a sensor that matches the color science of another iconic camera within the CineAlta line, the VENICE 2, and is specially designed for single-camera operators and small film crews. This camera combines exceptional image quality with high mobility and is the world’s first digital cinema camera with a PL-Mount to feature in-body image stabilization.
The cinema camera features an 8.6K full-frame sensor that shares most of the VENICE 2 specifications, enabling it to work alongside that camera in all types of productions. The sensor features dual base ISO of 800 and 3200 and 16 stops of latitude that can produce stunning images even in the most challenging lighting conditions. The BURANO can film at frame rates including up to 8K at 30 frames per second, 6K at 60 frames per second, or 4K at 120 frames per second.
“There are many things that need to be considered when shooting, like balancing the light when shooting an interior or exterior shot. The BURANO camera adjusts all these considerations by itself,” O-Sing Pui shared, underlining the camera’s ability to shoot in any lighting condition.
Panel Discussion with Nigel Laxamana, JA Tadena, and O-Sing Pui
Likewise, JA Tadena was impressed with BURANO’s many accessible features that make the cinema shooting experience more efficient than ever before. “When you talk about cinema cameras, the first thing that comes to mind is that they are usually fully manual. There is no such thing as ‘Autofocus’” JA remarked. “Adjusting the focus is less of a problem now with the BURANO, which is equipped with the full Autofocus system present in other Sony cameras. This makes my work more efficient than ever”.
“The Sony BURANO camera has revolutionary features to cater to the needs of filmmakers in expressing their creativity and imagination,” Nigel Laxamana commented. “The BURANO’s smart features to adapt enables cinematographers to circumvent the long hours of production. Being able to have variation in shooting styles to take the perfect shot instead of shooting multiple times for a single scene.”
The First Digital Cinema Camera with PL-mount and Built-In Optical Image Stabilization
BURANO is the world’s first digital cinema camera with PL-mount to support in-body image stabilization. With a newly developed image stabilization mechanism and control algorithm that leverages the advanced image stabilization technology cultivated in the Alpha™ series of mirrorless interchangeable-lens cameras, unwanted camera shake, such as movement from shooting handheld or walking, can be corrected when shooting with an E-mount or PL-mount lens. With Fast Hybrid and Subject Recognition AF with AI, filmmakers no longer need a bigger crew to shoot stable, high-definition images, no matter how demanding the scenario is.
An Easier, Efficient Shooting Experience
Shooting film has never been easier with the BURANO’s multi-purpose touchscreen LCD monitor, a flexible mounting system, and a versatile, robust handle which makes the camera easily configurable to any different shooting style. With the camera’s ergonomic design, it is now easier to switch between shoulder-mount, handheld, gimbal, or drone operation. BURANO can be configured for large and small projects, solo or with an entire crew.
The BURANO is now available for purchase in the Philippines. Learn more about Sony’s innovative, lightweight cinema camera: https://bit.ly/SonyBURANO.
A scene at the living room with the Sony BURANO camera
Filming the flow of movement with the Sony BURANO camera
Video game company Electronic Arts will lay off 5 precent of its workforce according to a report it filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on Wednesday. More than 650 EA employees will lose their jobs as a result of the move, part of a broader restricting that will see the company cutting back on office space and ending work on some video games.
EA’s cuts are the latest in a long line of layoffs that have rocked the video game industry since last year. In 2023, more than 10,500 video game workers lost their jobs, and more than 6,000 people in the industry were cut in January 2024 alone. The video game companies that have laid off workers so far include Microsoft, Riot Games, and Unity among many others. On Tuesday, Sony announced that it was laying off 900 people from its PlayStation division, roughly 8 percent of its headcount.
In a memo sent to EA employees, CEO Andrew Wilson wrote that the company is “streamlining our company operations to deliver deeper, more connected experiences for fans everywhere.” EA expects to finish making the cuts by early next quarter, the memo says. The cuts, Wilson adds, will let EA focus more on its “biggest opportunities — including our owned IP, sports, and massive online communities.”
Securing physical copies of a number of Disney classics is about to get a lot harder. Disney has announced today that after 23 years of service, it will be shuttering the Disney Movie Club later this year. Disney Movie Club is a subscription service for diehard fans that, since 2001, has provided an avenue for them to secure DVDs and Blu-rays of countless pieces of Disney media. Members would receive monthly releases, but the real boon of the service was the Disney Movie Club’s deep cuts, which were often mostly-forgotten classics that are otherwise very difficult to get a hold of.
Disney’s New Post-Apocalyptic Anime Proves The Mouse Has Good Taste
A statement from the company reads, “After 23 magical years, it’s time to say goodbye. After serving over 10 million valued Club Members, we have made the difficult decision to close the Disney Movie Club. We will miss the opportunity to be part of the lives of so many Disney fans, including you, but we will be forever grateful for the time you’ve chosen to spend with us.”
Disney’s move to close the Disney Movie Club comes on the heels of a new deal the company has struck with Sony, which will see the latter taking over the production of physical media on behalf of the former. The deal, first reported by The Digital Bits, does not clarify whether or not Sony will offer its own similar service in light of Disney Movie Club being closed down.
Physical media has been trending downward for a long time thanks to the emergence of digital releases and the advent of streaming services, making a move like this all but an inevitability. Disney launched its own streaming service, Disney+, in late November of 2019, and the service has largely been touted as an incarnation of the promise the Disney Movie Club once held. But you don’t own the films and TV shows on Disney+; they can be taken off the service at any time. And despite its status as Disney’s digital vault, Disney+ is still missing a number of titles that are currently only available in a physical capacity through the Disney Movie Club. The shuttering of the service in a few months, paired with these titles’ absence on Disney’s preeminent service, has many wondering what’ll happen to the precious titles that haven’t been brought over and have no other physical releases available.
The announcement of Disney Movie Club’s shuttering notes that the service will be retired in July of this year, but current members will have until May 20 to place any remaining orders. If you’re a collector of vintage Disney movies and shows, or even just an advocate for the proliferation of physical media and ownership of it, it’s best to act fast.
