Sony has begun pushing a firmware update that adds its Bravia Direct Connect wireless audio system and the My Cinema UI to a range of legacy Bravia televisions. The rollout, identified as version v114.602.050.1, is arriving in North America, Europe and other markets, targeting Bravia 9, 8, 7, 5 and A95L sets .

Bravia Direct Connect reaches Bravia 5 and A95L models

According to the update notice, the proprietary Direct Connect technology—first seen on the 2026 Bravia 9 II and 7 II—now works on five older series. The feature lets the TV’s built‑in speakers act as the front channels while rear speakers and a subwoofer pair wirelessly, eliminating the need for a soundbar hub.

Compatible hardware includes Sony’s Rear 9 and Rear 8 speakers plus Sub 9, Sub 8 and Sub 7 subwoofers, all of which still require power outlets but no audio cables. users can choose any combination of rear speakers and subwoofer, tailoring the setup to budget and room size.

My Cinema overlay arrives on the same legacy lineup

The same firmware also introduces the My Cinema interface, a pop‑up overlay that centralises picture and audio tweaks without leaving the current content. as the report states, the overlay can store app‑specific presets—for example, a dimmer night‑mode for movies and a brighter profile for sports—allowing instant switching.

This granular control is aimed at households with mixed viewing preferences, reducing the need to dive into deep menu trees for each app . The feature is available on the identical Bravia 9, 8, 7, 5 and A95L models receiving Direct Connect.

Rollout timing and regional availability

The update is being delivered in phases, meaning some owners may not see the new version immediately. sony advises users to check the TV’s software menu for the v114.602.050.1 update and follow the on‑screen pairing guide once installed.

In addition to the headline features, the firmware includes general bug fixes and performance tweaks, a standard practice for Sony’s post‑sale support.

Who still needs a soundbar?

While Direct Connect offers a wireless surround solution, it does not replace a full‑range soundbar for every scenario. The technology relies on the TV’s internal speakers for the centre, left and right channels, which may limit fidelity compared with dedicated front‑channel drivers. As a result, audiophiles may still opt for a premium soundbar or AV receiver, but the update provides a cost‑effective upgrade path for many existing owners.

Unverified claims about bass depth and immersion

The source claims the new setup delivers “deeper bass and an immersive surround sound experience that surpasses the output of the TV’s internal speakers alone.” Sony has not published independent measurements , so the actual performance gain remains to be quantified by reviewers.