Sony has started rolling out another software update for selected Bravia televisions following complaints about problems introduced by an earlier firmware release.

The new software, version 114.602.170.1, appears to resolve a fault that left some viewers facing a black screen when attempting to watch certain Dolby Vision content through external HDMI devices. However, reports suggest separate audio problems affecting some Bravia owners have yet to be addressed.

The issues emerged after Sony distributed software version 114.602.080.1 to a range of compatible televisions towards the end of June. Following its release, owners reported several problems involving HDMI-connected equipment and audio passthrough.

Complaints included intermittent audio dropouts, lip-sync problems and Dolby Vision content failing to display correctly. In some cases, users attempting to start Dolby Vision material were reportedly presented with a black screen instead of the expected picture.

Sony’s latest update specifically targets the display problem. The release notes state that the software resolves an issue in which a black screen could appear when certain content was started from an external HDMI device.

Early feedback from affected owners indicates the fix is working as intended for the Dolby Vision fault. What Hi-Fi? reader David Simmonds, who had experienced the issue, reported that the problem appeared to have been corrected after installing the new firmware.

The picture fix does not appear to extend to the audio faults associated with the previous software, however.

What Hi-Fi? editor Tom Parsons installed version 114.602.170.1 and found that the audio dropout problem affecting his Sony system remained after testing. Simmonds reportedly encountered the same result, suggesting the new firmware has not addressed at least some of the sound-related complaints.

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That outcome is consistent with Sony’s description of the update. Its release notes refer specifically to the black screen issue and do not claim to resolve audio dropouts or lip-sync faults.

The situation means the latest update could provide welcome relief for Bravia owners affected by the Dolby Vision playback problem, while those experiencing unreliable sound may have to wait for another software release.

The faults appear to be associated with how affected televisions interact with external HDMI sources and passthrough connections, although the precise cause of the remaining audio problems has not been confirmed.

The experience also highlights the potential complications of television firmware updates. Modern TVs increasingly depend on software to manage features ranging from HDR formats and streaming services to HDMI connections and audio systems. A firmware change intended to improve one area can consequently affect other parts of a home cinema set-up.

Sony has been contacted by What Hi-Fi? for further information about the outstanding audio issues and whether another update is being prepared.

For Bravia owners who encountered the Dolby Vision black screen fault, version 114.602.170.1 appears to offer a solution. Those dealing with audio dropouts or synchronisation problems, however, may still be waiting for a complete fix.