Dolby Vision 2 Unveiled at CES 2026

Exploring the Advancements of Dolby Vision 2 at CES 2026

On today’s episode of You Asked, we delved into the exciting developments surrounding Dolby Vision 2. The topic was so compelling that it warranted an entire episode dedicated to it. We explored TV model availability, including models you may already own, corrected some previous misconceptions, and provided side-by-side comparisons between the original Dolby Vision and the new format. You will be impressed. And yes, I apologize in advance for how many times I’ll say “Dolby Vision.”

A Memorable Experience with Dolby at CES 2026

The experience with Dolby at CES 2026 was truly impressive. It was my first time experiencing Dolby Atmos in a vehicle, and the vehicles showcased were nothing short of premium. Songs like Elton John’s "Rocket Man" and Pink Floyd’s "Money" demonstrated the power of immersive audio.

What sparked curiosity among me and others who met with Dolby’s engineers was the upcoming release of Dolby Vision 2. While there was some initial information, we wanted to learn more about how it would function and how it would improve upon an already exceptional HDR format.

How Much Better is Dolby Vision 2?

In one word: significantly. During our meeting with Dolby, we saw the improvements across various levels of TV quality. Although we weren’t given specific models, one demonstration featured a 100-inch premium TV with around 5,000 dimming zones and approximately 5,000 nits of brightness. It was a stunning display, making it no surprise that Dolby Vision 2 looked incredible.

We then observed two identical models priced around $700, placing them in the mid to high tier range of TVs. One displayed content in Dolby Vision, while the other showed the same content in Dolby Vision 2. In person, the difference was clear. There was more depth and punch in the colors. I avoid using the term “saturation” because I associate it with over-processing, but this was simply more lifelike and real, especially when watching sports. Greens and skin tones stood out particularly well.

Even gaming appeared significantly improved.

Surprises on Budget TVs

What truly impressed me was the difference between Dolby Vision and Dolby Vision 2 on budget TVs. These were two- or three-hundred-dollar TVs that typically lack full-array local dimming and often get overlooked compared to Mini LED TVs.

With Dolby Vision 2, if I didn’t tell you these were budget TVs, you wouldn’t be able to tell. Side by side with a TV playing standard Dolby Vision content, the difference was striking. A lower-tier TV capable of playing Dolby Vision 2 content suddenly becomes a much more viable option for anyone seeking great picture quality on a budget. You still need access to Dolby Vision 2, which might require certain streaming services or premium tiers, but the result is that great-looking HDR content becomes more accessible. That’s a significant win for consumers.

Understanding Content Intelligence

The next question was about Content Intelligence. What does that really mean, and is it related to AI?

Straight up, no. If anything, it’s the opposite of artificial intelligence, and this was something I was completely wrong about. As a creator, when I hear something that sounds like it could be AI, my radar goes off. I need to chill.

Content Intelligence feels more like a partnership with the creator. Dolby refers to what they do as an ecosystem, not just output formats for audio and video. They work with studios, filmmakers, editors, and creators across film, TV, and music.

Dolby Vision 2 allows for more metadata to be used with content. I prefer to think of it as a better way for directors, cinematographers, and editors to communicate their intent. Creators know how the final grade should look, but viewers may watch on any number of different TV models.

Dolby Vision 2 enables creators to send more information, such as highlight and shadow detail, with the content. On the TV side, that data can be interpreted and translated based on the specific TV and panel. The creator packages how the film should look, and the TV can better unpack it and keep that look intact.

Motion, Judder, and Creator Intent

The same idea applies to motion smoothing and judder reduction, which Dolby calls Authentic Motion. Scenes are analyzed for what might cause unwanted judder, and the amount of correction can change in real time. From what we saw, this avoids the soap opera effect and unnecessary smoothing, applying correction only when needed.

This naturally leads to a question. If Dolby Vision 2 and the creator are making all these decisions, what control does the viewer have?

You can still make adjustments, but there is a trade-off. You can adjust brightness, motion clarity, contrast, and other settings, but doing so disables the benefits of Dolby Vision 2. It’s one or the other.

There is, however, an intensity slider that changes how much of the Dolby Vision 2 look you’re getting. Adjusting it affects brightness, contrast, and the overall Dolby Vision presentation at once. Some people may not like that, but creator intent is a core principle for Dolby, and there are many professionals involved in making content look its best.

TV Support and Availability

So which TVs will support Dolby Vision 2, and can some already-released models handle it?

Yes, there are already TVs capable of supporting the new format. Dolby explained that some system-on-chip hardware was available before they were ready to announce Dolby Vision 2, meaning certain models can receive over-the-air updates.

Hisense plans to feature Dolby Vision 2 on its 2026 RGB Mini LED TVs and bring it to more Mini LED models via updates. TCL’s 2026 X QD-Mini LED TVs and C Series should also support it through updates. TP Vision’s Philips 2026 OLED TVs are also planning support.

Dolby Vision 2 and Live Sports

Another standout was Dolby’s work with NBC’s Peacock and live sports. With increased Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos availability for live events, sports can now benefit from the same premium presentation as movies and TV shows.

Dolby AC-4 also adds a feature that lets viewers adjust the balance between stadium sound and commentators. If you want to feel more like you are at the game, you can turn down the commentary and boost the crowd. This will be available during live broadcasts in real time.

Final Thoughts

That is everything I have for now, though I am probably forgetting something. I was genuinely impressed by Dolby Vision 2, as were many veterans in the TV and audio space. The improvements are real, and in some cases, genuinely surprising.