Hisense has become the first television manufacturer to begin rolling out Dolby Vision 2, bringing the next-generation HDR format to selected 2026 models through a software update in the coming weeks.

The rollout marks the first time Dolby Vision 2 will be available to consumers outside demonstration environments, allowing owners of compatible Hisense televisions to experience the new picture technology at home.

Dolby says the upgraded format delivers more lifelike images across all Dolby Vision content, improving picture accuracy while enhancing overall image quality.

The update is limited to Hisense’s 2026 television range, including the flagship UX, UR9, UR8 and U7 series. In some markets, including Europe and the UK, the U7 model is sold as the U7 Pro. Models running either Google TV or VIDAA OS will receive the update first.

Older Hisense televisions are not expected to gain Dolby Vision 2 compatibility because the technology relies on new processing hardware that is unavailable in previous generations.

Hisense is also introducing Dolby Vision 2 Max, the premium version of the format designed for higher-end televisions with more advanced display capabilities.

Dolby Vision 2 Max includes several exclusive features, including Authentic Motion, which is intended to reduce unwanted judder while avoiding the artificial “soap opera” effect often associated with motion processing.

Another addition is Light Sense 2, which automatically adjusts picture settings according to ambient lighting conditions, helping maintain image quality whether viewers are watching in a bright room or a darker environment.

The premium format also introduces new Pro settings, giving users more control over how Dolby Vision content is displayed.

Although the technology is now reaching televisions, content availability remains limited. Streaming platforms including CANAL+, Peacock and iQIYI have committed to supporting Dolby Vision 2 programming, but the catalogue of compatible content is still relatively small.

The launch comes as competition intensifies between HDR formats. Samsung recently introduced HDR10+ Advanced on its 2026 televisions, with Amazon Prime Video becoming the first major streaming platform to support the new standard.

As more television manufacturers and streaming providers adopt next-generation HDR technologies, consumers are likely to see an increasing divide between competing picture formats. Hisense’s rollout gives Dolby Vision 2 an important first step into the consumer market as the race for HDR leadership continues.