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1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesTo make a Sony Bravia work as a smart TV, first check whether it runs Google TV or Android TV. If it does, connect it to the internet and complete the on-screen setup. If it does not have usable built-in streaming, you can add a compatible external streaming device, provided the TV has the required connection.
Bravia setup screens and features vary by model and software version, so find the model number and check its Sony support page or manual before following menu instructions.
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Check what kind of Bravia you have
Find the TV’s model number, then use Sony’s support site to locate its manual and identify its operating system. Sony’s first-time setup instructions cited here apply to Android TV; they are not universal directions for every Bravia generation. Google TV, Android TV, and other Bravia models can have different setup screens and menu paths.
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Before choosing a setup route, check whether your TV has built-in Google TV or Android TV, whether its apps still work, and whether it can connect to your home network. If you already know which streaming services you want, check whether those services support your specific TV.
#1 Best Overall
- Compatible with select 2025 Sony TVs – BRAVIA 8II and BRAVIA 5
- Compatible with select 2024 Sony TVs – BRAVIA 9, BRAVIA 8, BRAVIA 7, BRAVIA 3
- Compatible with select 2023 Sony TVs – A95L, A80L, X95L, X93L, X90L
- Compatible with select 2022 Sony TVs – Z9K, X95K, A95K, A90K, A80K, X90K, X85K, X80K
- Enjoy Zoom video chat with friends and family on the big screen. (Zoom app download required)
Set up a Bravia with Android TV
For first-time setup on an Android TV model, follow the prompts on the screen. Sony’s guide describes selecting a language, connecting to the internet, and deciding whether to sign in to a Google account. Broadcast tuning may also be included in the initial setup.
- Turn on the TV and follow its first-time setup prompts.
- Select the language and connect to the internet using Wi-Fi or wired LAN, if available.
- Choose whether to sign in to a Google account. Sony says you can skip sign-in and do it later, but some Google apps and services require an account.
- Complete broadcast tuning if the setup wizard offers it and you use TV broadcasts.
For model-specific details, see Sony’s Android TV first-time setup guide. Its steps may differ from those on Google TV or older Bravia models.
Rank #2
- The Google TV Streamer (4K) delivers your favorite entertainment quickly, easily, and personalized to you[1,2]
- HDMI 2.1 cable required (sold separately)
- See movies and TV shows from all your services right from your home screen[2]; and find new things to watch with tailored recommendations for everyone in your home based on their interests and viewing habits
- Watch live TV and access over 800 free channels from Pluto TV, Tubi, and more[3]; if you find an interesting show or movie on your TV, mobile app, or Google search, you can easily add it to your watchlist, so it’s ready when you are[2]
- Up to 4K HDR with Dolby Vision delivers captivating, true-to-life detail[4]; and you can connect speakers that support Dolby Atmos for more immersive 3D sound
Connect the TV to Wi-Fi
Have your network name (SSID) and password ready. Wi-Fi passwords are case-sensitive, so enter uppercase and lowercase letters exactly as they appear. Sony lists menu paths including Network & Internet → Wi-Fi, but the labels and route vary by model and software version.
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- Open the TV’s network or internet settings.
- Select Wi-Fi and choose your network name.
- Enter the password carefully, then confirm the connection.
- If you cannot find the credentials, check your router documentation or ask your internet provider.
Use Sony’s Wi-Fi connection instructions alongside the manual for your exact model. If you prefer a wired connection, check the manual for LAN connection steps and availability.
Rank #3
- GOOGLE TV WITH GOOGLE ASSISTANT: Get access to all your favorite streaming apps in one place with Google TV. And with Google Assistant, simply use your voice to search and ask questions.
- YOUR FAVORITE STREAMING APPS IN ONE PLACE: Get access to all your favorite streaming apps, including Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, YouTube, the Apple TV app, Crunchyroll, and many more. Easily stream to your smart TV with support for AirPlay 2 and Chromecast built-in.
- MOVIES INCLUDED WITH THE BRAVIA TV: Streaming high-bitrate, high-quality 4K UHD movies included with the SONY PICTURES CORE app (formerly BRAVIA CORE). Get 5 credits to redeem on latest release movies and 12 months subscription on hundreds of classics.
- MORE IMMERSIVE MOVIE EXPERIENCE: Get a truly cinematic viewing experience with support for 4K HDR, Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos.
- INTELLIGENT TV PROCESSING: 4K HDR Processor X1 intelligently enhances every scene in real-time boosting color, contrast, and clarity.
Use apps and internet content
After an Android TV model is connected, it can access supported apps and internet content. Availability depends on the TV’s features, software, region, and the service you want to use; an internet connection does not guarantee that every streaming service supports every Bravia. Sony’s overview is available at Enjoy apps and internet content on your Android TV.
If a particular app is missing or no longer works, check Sony’s support information for your model and the streaming service’s device-compatibility information. Do not assume that an app available on a newer Bravia will also be available on an older one.
Rank #4
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- PURE BLACK AND OUR HIGHEST OLED BRIGHTNESS: Over 8 million self-lit pixels are precisely controlled to produce pure black with our highest OLED brightness.
- BILLIONS OF REAL-WORLD COLORS: See billions of accurate real-world colors with a Quantum Dot panel and XR Triluminos Max.
- POWERFUL TV PROCESSING WITH AI: XR Processor with AI technology intelligently enhances every scene in real-time boosting color, contrast, and clarity.
- EVERYTHING YOU STREAM. ALL IN ONE SCREEN: Get access to all your favorite streaming apps in one place with Google TV. With Google Assistant, simply use your voice to search and ask questions.
When an external streaming device makes sense
If your Bravia lacks built-in smart features, or its apps are no longer usable, an external streaming device may provide another route to streaming. Before buying one, check your TV’s available inputs, the device’s connection requirements, and the Bravia manual. Sony includes streaming-device connections in its TV connection guide, but that does not certify compatibility for every unspecified model.
| Approach | Best fit | Check first |
|---|---|---|
| Use the TV’s built-in platform | The Bravia has Google TV or Android TV, and its built-in apps and network connection are usable. | Model-specific setup steps, internet access, and support for the services you want. |
| Add an external streaming device | The TV lacks usable built-in streaming or its apps do not meet your needs. | Available TV inputs, the device’s connection requirements, and the Bravia manual. |
Show content from a phone or tablet
Sony provides guidance for casting, AirPlay, screen mirroring, and Wi-Fi Direct, but availability depends on the TV, the phone or tablet, and region. Wi-Fi Direct is not supported on every Bravia; check your model’s specifications or manual before relying on it.
- Sony guidance for casting and screen mirroring
- Sony guidance for AirPlay
- Sony guidance for Wi-Fi Direct
Use the instructions for your specific TV and mobile device; these methods are not interchangeable, and a feature listed for one model may not be present on another.
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