TCL rolls out Google TV update with Dolby Vision Filmmaker, more

TCL's new update adds Dolby Vision Filmmaker Mode and fixes IMAX Enhanced DTS:X with Disney+. Dolby Atmos FlexConnect now also supports a wireless subwoofer.

Already installed on TCL's 2026 models at launch, the firmware will also be released for the 2025, 2024 and 2023 Google TVs powered by the Pentonic 700 chip. Some users have already received it and a wide release will follow, TCL informed FlatpanelsHD.

It will roll out to popular models like X11K, C8K (QM8K), C7K (QM7K), C6K (QM6K), C805, C845 (only X2 revision), C855, C955 and X955 (QM851G). You can confirm which models have the Pentonic 700 chip in FlatpanelsHD's TV Database.


TCL adding new features
The v643 firmware adds Dolby Vision Filmmaker Mode, which is Dolby's new branding for its most accurate picture mode for dark-room viewing. It replaces Dolby Vision Dark.

It continues TCL's commendable practice of adding new features after launch, most recently with the v604/v590 firmwares adding Android 14, HDMI 2.1 QMS and more.

v643 also fixes a persistent bug with IMAX Enhanced DTS:X audio on Disney+. It now works as intended, letting users switch between Dolby Atmos and DTS:X on select movies such as Tron: Ares and Marvel titles.

Additionally, TCL has included a number of performance improvements and bug fixes.


Expanded Dolby Atmos FlexConnect
TCL was the first TV brand to add support for Dolby's promising new wireless TV audio platform, FlexConnect. Last year, it supported up to four wireless speakers.

TCL has now expanded the system to also support a wireless subwoofer (TCL Z100-SW), connected directly to the TV via FlexConnect.

FlatpanelsHD saw and heard it in action during a TCL event in Warsaw this month, demonstrated with a scene from Tron: Ares on Disney+. TCL also showed the option to switch between Dolby Atmos and IMAX Enhanced DTS:X, which worked as intended even with Dolby's FlexConnect.

The subwoofer adds extra oomph to the sound and makes FlexConnect a more complete alternative to a soundbar, with better stereo separation, a more immersive surround experience, and greater flexibility in speaker placement, though at the expense of a less distinct center channel.