Sony Bravia 5 Mini LED TV displaying vibrant colors next to a graphic of the Sony and TCL logos representing the 2026 manufacturing partnership.

Sony Stops Making TVs? The Truth About the TCL Partnership & Why You Need to Check Sony Bravia TV Deals Now

If you’ve been waiting to upgrade your home theater, the clock might be ticking faster than you think. The internet is exploding with rumors that Sony stops making TVs, and for once, the clickbait is uncomfortably close to the truth.

On January 20, 2026, the tech world was shaken by a massive announcement: Sony and TCL have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to form a new joint venture. This isn’t just a simple factory agreement—it’s a changing of the guard.

Here is everything you need to know about the Sony TCL partnership, the uncertain Bravia future, and why the Sony Bravia 5 Mini LED TV might be the smartest purchase you make this year.

The Bombshell: Sony & TCL’s 2026 Joint Venture

For decades, “Sony Bravia” has been synonymous with Japanese engineering perfection. But the landscape of Sony TV manufacturing 2026 is shifting drastically.

Under the new proposed deal, Sony’s entire home entertainment business will transfer to a joint venture where TCL holds a 51% majority stake. While the “Sony” logo isn’t going anywhere, the company that builds the TV is changing. The deal is expected to be finalized by March 2026, with the new operations starting in April 2027.

What does this mean for you?

  • The “Pure” Era is Ending: The 2025/2026 models currently on shelves are likely the last generation fully controlled, designed, and manufactured under Sony’s traditional structure before the TCL integration begins.

  • Price vs. Prestige: The partnership aims to lower costs (good for your wallet) but purists are worried about whether the legendary “Sony tax” quality control will survive under TCL’s management.

This uncertainty has triggered a massive spike in demand. Enthusiasts are rushing to grab existing inventory, creating a scarcity mindset that is driving people to hunt for Sony Bravia TV Deals Now.

Review: Sony Bravia 5 Mini LED TV (The “Sweet Spot” King)

Amidst the corporate chaos, one TV has emerged as the definitive value champion of the 2025/2026 lineup. If you want next-gen tech without the Bravia 9 flagship price tag, this is it.

The Specs at a Glance:

  • Tech: Mini LED with Local Dimming

  • Processor: Cognitive Processor XR (The “Secret Sauce”)

  • Gaming: 4K/120Hz, VRR, Auto HDR Tone Mapping (PS5 Ready)

  • Panel: VA Panel (High Contrast)

Why It’s a Buy:

The Bravia 5 sits comfortably between the entry-level Bravia 3 and the high-end Bravia 7. It is arguably the most balanced TV Sony has released in years.

  1. Mini LED Punch: Unlike standard LEDs, the Bravia 5 uses Mini LEDs to deliver deep blacks that rival OLEDs in a bright room. It solves the “glare” issue many OLED owners face.

  2. The XR Difference: Even if manufacturing shifts later, the current Bravia 5 uses Sony’s proprietary XR Processor. This chip handles motion and upscaling better than almost anything else on the market. It makes low-bitrate streaming look like 4K Blu-ray.

  3. Gaming Beast: It is perfectly tuned for the PS5 Pro. Features like “Auto Genre Picture Mode” work seamlessly.

The Cons:

It’s not perfect. It only has two HDMI 2.1 ports (one is eARC), meaning if you have a soundbar and two consoles, you’ll need a splitter. Also, viewing angles are narrower than the pricier Bravia 8 OLED.

Verdict: The Bravia 5 is the “last great value” of the current era. It offers 90% of the flagship performance for 60% of the price.

The Bravia Future: What Happens in late 2026?

As we look toward the Bravia future, the 2026 lineup (likely to be called the Bravia 7 II or Bravia 9 II) will hit shelves later this year. These will be the bridge models—possibly the final ones developed entirely before the TCL JV takes full operational control in 2027.

If you are a purist who cares about “Sony DNA,” you have two choices:

  1. Wait for the late 2026 models: Likely to be expensive at launch.

  2. Buy the Bravia 5 or Bravia 7 now: These are proven, reviewed, and currently seeing aggressive price cuts as retailers clear stock.

Final Thoughts

The Sony TCL partnership is good for business but confusing for buyers. It signals a future where the lines between “Premium Japanese Brand” and “Chinese Manufacturing Giant” blur.

If you want to secure a TV that is undeniably Sony, check the Sony Bravia TV Deals Now. The Bravia 5 Mini LED is our top pick for performance per dollar, and with the manufacturing news trending, stock might not last forever.

FAQs about Sony Bravia TVs

Which Sony Bravia is the best?

The best model depends on your room size and budget. OLED models suit movie lovers, while LED 4K models fit daily use.

What is the price of Sony Bravia 43 inch TV?

Prices vary by model and offers. Most fall in the mid range premium TV category in India.

Is Sony Bravia 43 inch a smart TV?

Yes, most 43 inch Sony Bravia TVs come with Android TV and smart features.

Which is better, LG or Sony TV?

Sony focuses on picture processing, while LG is known for panels. Both are good, but Sony is trusted for natural colors.

Which is the best 43 inch TV to buy?

Sony Bravia 43 inch 4K Android TVs are a strong choice for picture and reliability.

Should I buy a 43 inch or 55 inch TV?

Choose 43 inch for smaller rooms. Pick 55 inch for larger spaces and cinema feel.

Which TV is better, Sony or Samsung?

Sony offers better color accuracy. Samsung focuses on brightness. Choice depends on viewing preference.

Which TV is best, UHD or LED?

UHD refers to resolution. LED refers to panel type. UHD LED TVs offer the best balance.

Is Sony OLED or QLED better?

Sony OLED gives deeper blacks. QLED offers higher brightness. OLED suits movie lovers.

Is Bravia 8 better than Bravia 7?

Bravia 8 offers improved processing and brightness over Bravia 7.

Is Bravia 9 worth it over BRAVIA 7?

Yes, for buyers wanting the latest features and higher performance.

What is the difference between Sony Bravia 8 mk2 and A95L?

A95L is more premium with advanced display tech. Bravia 8 mk2 is more affordable.

Is BRAVIA 8 OLED or QLED?

BRAVIA 8 is available in OLED variants.

Is Bravia 9 better than A95L?

Bravia 9 focuses on brightness and processing, while A95L excels in picture depth.

Which is better Sony A80L or BRAVIA 8?

Both are strong. A80L is popular for OLED value, while Bravia 8 brings newer features.

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