Following word that Samsung plans to integrate iTunes and AirPlay 2 into select smart TV models, Sony on Monday said its TVs, too, will add support for Apple streaming and remote control protocols TVs later this year.
Sony's Z9G 8K TV.
Sony at CES 2019 announced forthcoming AirPlay 2 and HomeKit integration for a handful of TVs, including the upcoming Z9G Series 8K LCDs and A9G Series 4K OLEDs, as well as the X950G 4K LCD unit, reports The Verge.
The move to integrate Apple protocols comes as a surprise for Sony, which uses Google's Android TV platform to power its smart TV offerings.
According to a press release, Sony's Z9G, A9G and X950G will let users stream content -- including movies and TV shows from iTunes -- from iPhone, iPad and Mac via AirPlay 2. In addition, Apple Music subscribers can stream their favorite tunes to a compatible Sony TV. That same support is offered to those with iTunes libraries, podcasts and other streaming services.
Since the TVs rely on AirPlay 2, sound playback syncs with other AirPlay 2 speakers and hardware in a user's home.
As for HomeKit integration, Sony's TVs will be available for provisioning via the Home app. Similar to connected lights and speakers, the TV sets can be added to HomeKit scenes and automations for remote control through the Home app or Siri. For example, a compatible Sony TV might be included as part of a scene called "Movie Night" which, when triggered, dims the lights and turns on the set.
Sony's Z9G will be available in 85 and 98 inch models, the A9G series comes in 55, 65 and 77 inch sizes, and the X950G ships in 55, 65, 75 and 85 inch versions.
Over the weekend, Apple and Samsung announced a partnership that will deliver both iTunes and AirPlay 2 to the Korean tech giant's smart TVs. Apple also struck deals with Vizio and LG promised, which also promised to bring Air Play 2 and HomeKit support to select TV models this year.
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