Sony screens hit by software bug, lights out for World Cup match

SONY TV owners may miss Australia's World Cup qualifier tonight after a software glitch began turning some screens off at random.

Sony televisions kicked by glitch

SONY television owners are in danger of missing Australia's World Cup qualification match tonight after a software glitch began turning some of the manufacturer's screens off at random overnight.

Three popular models of Sony Bravia televisions are affected by the glitch, according to the company, including the KDL-EX650, KDL-HX750 and KDL-HX850, which are still on sale.

The televisions, which promise full high-definition resolution and screen sizes up to 55 inches, retail for up to $2499.

The software issue causes the television screens to freeze or turn off regularly- in some cases every 90 seconds - making viewing frustrating.

Sony issued a statement admitting the software issue on its website, advising owners to turn the television off and unplug it for two minutes to resolve the issue, but it's understood that the proposed fix does not work.

"We are currently working with the TV broadcasters to resolve this problem and apologise for any frustration it has caused," the Sony statement read. "Rest assured were treating this with the highest priority."

Social media began to flood with complaints about the Sony TV issue late yesterday, with Twitter user @missarrie complaining, "My Sony Bravia has started rage quitting when I try to change the channel or you know just watch TV."

Technology forum Whirlpool users also reported the issue, with some contributors claiming the software glitch was caused by a signal from free-to-air broadcasters.

Some users reported fixing the issue by unplugging broadcast aerials and relying on pay-TV input instead.

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