Sony has unveiled the pricing for its new Bravia TV series, including the highly anticipated Bravia 8 II OLED, and the numbers are raising eyebrows. The 65-inch Bravia 8 II OLED will retail for $3,999.99 in the US, a significant $500 increase from the starting MSRP of its predecessor, the A95L, released in 2023. Meanwhile, the Canadian price for the same model remains unchanged at $4,999.99, which, when converted to USD, falls in the same $3,500 ballpark as the A95L's US price.

This disparity has led to speculation that Sony may be factoring in the tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump on many countries that are popular manufacturing hubs. The company assembles its TVs in multiple countries, including Mexico, and sources components from around the world. When reached for comment, Sony did not confirm or deny whether the pricing is meant to mitigate the impact of tariffs.

The Bravia 5 series, which replaces the X90L, also shows a significant price hike in the US compared to its Canadian counterpart. A currency conversion of the Canadian prices reveals that the US models are hundreds of dollars more expensive. For example, the 65-inch Bravia 5 Mini LED is priced at $1,799.99 in the US, while its Canadian equivalent is $2,099.99, which converts to approximately $1,479.80 USD.

It's worth noting that retailers will likely discount these suggested prices over time. However, Sony's TVs are known for their premium quality and are often priced accordingly. Home theater enthusiasts are willing to pay a premium for the company's first-rate picture processing, upscaling, and overall viewing experience.

The impact of tariffs on the tech industry has been a topic of discussion in recent years. Companies like Framework have delayed orders in the US due to tariffs, while others have had to absorb the additional costs. It remains to be seen how Sony's pricing strategy will affect the market and whether other manufacturers will follow suit.

As the global trade landscape continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how companies like Sony adapt to the changing environment. One thing is certain – consumers will be keeping a close eye on pricing and looking for the best value for their money.