Final answer:
Sony's new design changes to its plasma television sets, like smoked-glass control panel covers, are an example of an aesthetic modification, which alters appearance but not function.
Step-by-step explanation:
Sony's design of its new plasma television sets with smoked-glass control panel covers and other visual changes would be classified as an aesthetic modification. An aesthetic modification refers to changes made to the product’s appearance or design that do not affect its functional characteristics but may influence consumer perception and appeal. In contrast, functional modifications would involve changes that affect how the product operates, quality modifications would involve changes that affect the durability or reliability of the product, a product extension would add new features or services, and a brand modification involves changes to the branding strategy.