Sony launched its Bravia 8 II series smart TVs in India yesterday, bringing its Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology to the premium segment. The QD-QLED TVs, available in 55 and 65-inch variants, start at ₹2,46,990 and go up to ₹3,41,990.

The standout feature remains Sony’s approach to audio—turning the entire screen into a speaker. Using actuators behind the display to create vibrations, the technology eliminates the need for traditional speakers while maintaining sound quality. It’s the kind of engineering that sounds gimmicky until you hear it in action.

The Specs Sheet

The Bravia 8 II runs on Sony’s XR processor and checks all the premium TV boxes: IMAX Enhanced certification, Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, and Studio Calibrated Mode. Sony Pictures Core comes bundled, offering access to the company’s movie library including 4K HDR and IMAX Enhanced titles.

For gamers, particularly PS5 owners, the TV offers some targeted features. Auto HDR Tone Mapping adjusts settings automatically, while 4K/120fps support with variable refresh rate (VRR) and auto low latency mode (ALLM) should keep the competitive crowd happy. The TV automatically switches to Game Mode when it detects a PS5, minimising input lag.

Market Position

At nearly ₹2.5 lakh for the entry model, Sony is clearly targeting the premium segment where buyers prioritise features over price. The QD-QLED technology—quantum dot combined with OLED benefits—positions it against Samsung’s high-end offerings and LG’s OLED lineup.

The timing is interesting. India’s premium TV market has been growing steadily, with consumers increasingly willing to spend on larger, feature-rich displays. The work-from-home era created a new appreciation for quality home entertainment, and that momentum hasn’t slowed.

The Competition

Sony faces stiff competition in this price bracket. LG’s C-series OLEDs have dominated mindshare in the premium segment, while Samsung’s Neo QLED lineup offers similar quantum dot technology. Even brands like TCL and Hisense have started nibbling at the premium segment with aggressive pricing.

What Sony banks on is its processing prowess and unique audio implementation. The XR processor has consistently delivered superior upscaling and motion handling in previous models. Combined with the Acoustic Surface Audio+, it offers a differentiated experience that specs sheets don’t fully capture.

Gaming Focus

The PlayStation integration feels strategic rather than coincidental. With PS5 finally becoming more available in India, Sony can leverage its gaming ecosystem to drive TV sales. The Auto HDR Tone Mapping specifically for PS5 is the kind of feature that shows up in marketing materials and actually matters in daily use.

Availability and Verdict

The Bravia 8 II series is now available across Sony retail stores, major electronics chains, and e-commerce platforms. Whether the Acoustic Surface Audio+ and PlayStation optimisation justify the premium over competing models will depend on individual priorities.

For those already invested in the Sony ecosystem or anyone tired of soundbar cables, the Bravia 8 II presents a compelling, if expensive, option. The rest might find equally capable alternatives for less money, though perhaps without the screen that sings.