Sony Cuts Antenna, Set-Top Box Features from Bravia Smart TVs

Sony is making some controversial changes to its recent Bravia smart TVs that will affect users who rely on an antenna or set-top box for their TV viewing.

Starting in late May 2026, Sony will be reducing the TV guide functionality and removing channel logos and thumbnail images for users who access channels through an antenna, according to a support page spotted by Cord Cutters News. The company states that "program information may not appear depending on the channel," and "only programs from recently watched channels may be shown" for antenna-delivered channels.

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This change will impact viewers who rely on free over-the-air (OTA) TV channels like ABC, CBS, Fox, and NBC, as they will no longer see detailed program information or channel logos in the TV guide. While Sony hasn't provided a clear explanation for the decision, it's likely an effort to push users toward its own streaming services and subscriptions.

Users who connect their Bravia TVs to a set-top box will also lose access to these guide and channel logo features, further limiting the functionality for non-streaming TV viewers. This move comes as a surprise, as Sony has typically been supportive of antenna and set-top box users in the past.

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The loss of these features may be frustrating for many Bravia owners, especially those who rely on free OTA channels as their primary source of TV entertainment. It remains to be seen how this change will be received by Sony's customer base and whether the company will reconsider its decision in the face of user backlash.

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As the streaming wars continue to intensify, Sony appears to be prioritizing its own platform and services over providing a comprehensive viewing experience for antenna and set-top box users. This move could push more consumers toward alternative smart TV platforms or streaming devices that better cater to their needs.