TCL is gearing up to release a major firmware update for its newer Google TV models, adding Android 14, Super Resolution upscaling, HDMI 2.1 QMS and more.
Update: TCL Europe confirms HDMI 2.1 QMS and clarifies that it works only on HDMI1 and HDMI2. The update, which will publicly be known as v604, should also include a patch to make IMAX Enhanced DTS:X work with Disney+.
TCL's firmware version 590 currently exists as a manual update file and is expected to roll out soon via the TVs' built-in update feature.
The update is intended for TCL Google TVs powered by MediaTek Pentonic 700. First and foremost, it upgrades the Google TV platform from Android 12 to Android 14, ahead of the launch of the 2026 models, which will ship with Android 14 pre-installed.
HDMI QMS support
According to a TCL discussion group on Telegram as well as reports from owners on AVForums, the update also adds HDMI 2.1 QMS (Quick Media Switching). support. LG and Samsung previously added support for QMS.
It can be activated under Settings –> Channels and inputs –> External Inputs.
QMS allows the TV to seamlessly switch its refresh rate – avoiding black screens – when a QMS-compatible HDMI-based media player, such as Apple TV 4K, changes its refresh rate to match the content's frame rate. For example, when switching to 24Hz for movies and series, and back to 60Hz afterwards.
Also read: Guide: What is HDMI 2.1 QMS and which TV models support it?
QMS does not eliminate the black screen when switching between SDR and HDR formats. The QMS-compatible playback device must also be connected directly to the TV – not via an AV receiver or soundbar.
Android 12 to Android 14
Android 14 supports Energy Modes and Picture-in-Picture support (not for video streaming apps). However, new Google TV features are increasingly pushed out directly via Google's servers and do not require software updates.
Also read: Android TV 16 adds Eclipsa Audio, auto picture mode switching
In addition to Android 14 and QMS, the new firmware reportedly adds a 'Super Resolution' upscaling feature under Picture -> Clarity, as well as a new HDR conversion feature.
TCL has not yet provided release notes for firmware v590.
You can see which TCL models feature the Pentonic 700 chip in FlatpanelsHD's TV Database. Some of the most popular models are included in the table below.
TCL models getting Android 14
FlatpanelsHD
