UPDATE 10/11: Sony has clarified that the update reduces the amount of input lag on the 2015 and 2016 TVs when in HDR mode.
Input lag in general is reduced across all sources as a result, but the update does not add a specific HDR Game preset to the TVs.
Original story:
Sony has released a firmware update for its 2015 and 2016 TVs that essentially adds a High Dynamic Range (HDR) mode for gaming.
The company announced it would be releasing Software Update 3.533 to address an issue whereby all 2015 and 2016 Sony TVs, other than the Z9D/ZD9 models, only allowed the low latency Game picture preset to be used for gaming in standard dynamic range.
The preset reduced input lag, which refers to the time it takes for the TV picture to carry out actions entered on the attached console’s controller.
Related: HDR – What is it?
Sony recently released a firmware update for its PS4 console which allows it to play games in HDR, while the forthcoming PS4 Pro allows for HDR gaming as standard. Microsoft’s recently launched Xbox One S is also HDR-capable.
HDR is shorthand for a range of upgrades that allow for brighter whites, deeper blacks, and more natural colours, making for an enhanced overall image.
Up until now, any PS4 or Xbox One S gamers looking to take advantage of the feature using a 2015 or 2016 Sony TV would be unable to use the low-latency Game setting.
Related: Xbox One S review
Now, the following Sony TVs will work with the Game preset: X85C, S85C, X91C, X90C, X93C, X94C, S850D (SD85 in Europe), X850D (XD85 in Europe), X940D (XD94 in Europe) and X930D (XD93 in Europe).
The 3.533 update also ‘improves the stability of the TV’, which likely means the Android TV platform runs a bit smoother.
WATCH: Xbox One S vs Xbox One
Let us know if you’ve tried the new update in the comments.
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Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
