Sony is rolling out a new firmware update to let owners of 2021 and 2022 LCD TVs enable local dimming in VRR mode for improved HDR picture quality.
Sony's 'Perfect for PS5'-branded LCD TVs from 2021 (X90J, X95J, Z9J) and 2022 (X90K, X95K, Z9K) are now a better match for PlayStation 5's new VRR mode.
Previously, the 'Auto Local Dimming' setting would be disabled when the Sony TV switched to VRR mode, resulting in worse picture quality especially in HDR.
The latest firmware (v6.5929) lets you keep 'Auto Local Dimming' enabled (Off, Low, Medium or High). This lets you enjoy VRR's low-latency and smooth picture together with the local dimming's improved contrast.
Firmware available now
It is an update that you should definitely consider installing if you own PlayStation 5 or any Xbox with VRR support. It is available now in Europe, North America and other regions.
In addition, the update lets you adjust the 'Peak luminance' option when in VRR mode on Sony's 2021 and 2022 OLED TVs. It fixes various issues too.
Firmware v6.5929 – changelog
| - Resolves an issue where subtitles are not showing in specific contents
- Resolves an issue where the clock display on the TV stops
- Resolves an issue where only the right side of the screen is visible
- Resolves an issue where certain YouTube content becomes a green picture
- Resolves an issue where it’s not possible to watch a channel while recording another channel under specific circumstances
- Improves Auto local dimming (*1) and Peak luminance (*2) options when Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) is enabled.
(*1) for Z9J/ X95J/ X90J/ Z9K/ X95K/ X90K/ X90S
(*2) for Z9J/ A90J/ A80J/ X95J/ X90-92-93-94J / Z9K/ A95K/ A90-92-93-94K/ A80K/X95K/ X90K/ X90-94S |
FlatpanelsHDSome caveats apply
VRR mode is the "cleanest" and fastest mode with a almost no picture processing and even though local dimming can now be enabled to improve contrast, it will not function the same way as outside of VRR mode where the TV has time to analyze the picture.
The local dimming system will still have frame delay while the highs (peak brightness) and lows (black) in VRR mode will not reach their full potential due to the dimming zones' rise, fall and cooling times. For the best gaming picture quality in VRR mode today you should still consider OLED TVs.
Sony X900H / XH90 from 2020 has not received the update.
Local dimming in VRR mode with firmware v6.5929 works with the following Sony TV models.
Applicable Sony 2021 & 2022 TV models
FlatpanelsHD
