If you thought buying a future-proof TV was tough before, Dolby just cranked up the confusion. This week, right before IFA 2025, Dolby unveiled Dolby Vision 2—its shiny new HDR format promising better picture quality and available in two versions: Dolby Vision 2 and the souped-up Dolby Vision 2 Max for TVs that meet stricter standards.
So, which TVs are actually going to support this? Even the experts aren’t sure. Here’s what I found snooping around the biggest TV brands:
Let’s start with Hisense, Dolby’s official launch partner. Hisense says at least some of its latest high-end sets, like the UX116 RGB mini-LED, will get the Dolby Vision 2 upgrade. But don’t get your hopes up for last year’s TV—you’ll likely need to buy one of their newest, flashiest screens.
What about LG? Well, they’re the only brand to come right out and say “Nope!” LG told me flat-out, “We currently do not have plans to support Dolby Vision 2 HDR.” That’s not all—they claim there’s no way to upgrade existing TVs because the new standard needs different hardware, not just a software update. Is that totally accurate? Even Dolby wouldn’t say for sure.
For Samsung, you can stop holding your breath. They haven’t commented officially, but word on the street is that Samsung’s not interested and will keep pushing its own HDR10+.
TCL is dropping hints, but no concrete answers. My read? If streaming giants jump on the Dolby Vision 2 wagon, TCL will probably roll out compatible TVs soon enough.
Sony’s response was pure PR: “We’re in talks with Dolby.” Translation: Nothing to announce yet, but don’t rule it out for the future.
The upgrade question is even trickier. Some current TVs, especially those packing MediaTek’s new Pentonic 800 chip might technically be able to handle Dolby Vision 2. Hisense plans to update at least one set already using it. But that doesn’t mean every TV with that chip is an automatic winner; Dolby’s certification is picky, and there are other hardware hurdles.
Even if it’s technically possible to upgrade, will brands bother? Insiders say probably not, unless ofcourse, there’s enough must-watch Dolby Vision 2 content to make it worth the investment. Why give away a free update if they can sell you a shiny new TV instead?
The bottom line? Dolby Vision 2 could take TV picture quality to another level, especially on affordable models. But unless you’re about to buy a Hisense flagship, you’ll probably be left waiting.
