Overview
- Sony confirmed on June 12 that it will disable internet-dependent apps on a defined set of legacy products and published a model-level list of affected Blu-ray players, AV receivers, soundbars, wireless speakers, media players and home‑theater systems.
- The company set November 18, 2026, as the cutoff date for the change, after which built-in access to services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Spotify, Pandora, Slacker Radio and Vudu will be removed.
- Sony apologized to customers for the restrictions but said the move reflects the cost and operational burden of maintaining online services for many older models.
- Core offline functions will keep working so affected devices will still play discs and perform other non-networked tasks, but customers who used their gear mainly for streaming will need an external streaming stick, box or a newer device to restore app access.
- This step follows a broader industry pattern of ending platform support for legacy hardware to cut maintenance costs and free resources for newer products, a change that could accelerate sales of external streamers and replacement units.