The Nvidia Shield TV has been out for a few years now, and to Nvidia’s credit they have continued to update the device, albiet at a slightly slower pace than some smartphones.

Over the years it has proven to be one of the best set-top media boxes on the market with features that many other devices can’t match, including Plex Server and GeForce NOW.

The device received its Android Oreo update last year, and with new reports that the Shield TV is getting an updated model, Nvidia is clearly eager to maintain the platform.

Today, Nvidia is releasing its “SHIELD Software Experience Upgrade 8.0,” for the SHIELD TV, a device that is nearly five years old, not many phone companies can claim that.

As well as the standard Android Pie features, the Nvidia Shield TV will also get a handful of features such as “Autofill with Google”. It also gets a new setup process which lets you send information such as Wi-Fi passwords and account details from your phone. Here’s the complete changelog according to Nvidia:

• Updates “Display and Sounds” advanced setting into two easier to navigate menus.
• Adds option to match content color space (Settings > Display & Sound > Advanced).
• Improves volume dynamic range for USB and bluetooth connected headsets.
• SHIELD TV remote app adds bluetooth assist for pairing and improves connection.
• Enables 720p refresh rate switching on supported apps.
• Adds “Disconnect Bluetooth accessories” option to quick settings.
• Adds IR power control options to customize on/off functionality.
• Adds option to turn off USB power when SHIELD sleeps.
• Adds option to connect to 2.4GHz or 5GHz Wi-Fi network with shared SSID.
• Latest accessory firmware versions:
  • SHIELD controller (2017): v1.30
  • SHIELD controller (2015): v1.96/99/3.71/0.32
  • SHIELD remote (2017): v1.43
  • SHIELD remote (2015): v.1.36

For US users, you will be glad to hear that the new Hulu app with Live TV has started rolling out to SHIELD users. Enjoy live sports, news and events on 60+ top channels. The rollout is expected to complete in the coming weeks.

For AV fans there are several improvements, a new feature called “Match Content Color Space” for TVs that support HDR. It can automatically switch the display mode to deliver more accurate colours. The update also brings Dolby Digital Plus 5.1 surround sound for audio up to 640 kbps for apps such as Netflix, Prime Video, and Hulu+. Additionally, GeForce NOW gets twenty new games. 

The update is due to roll out from today  and should be available to all users.

Post from: Mighty Gadget – Gadget and Technology Blog

Nvidia Shield TV Finally Gets Android Pie Update + Hulu, More Games, Better HDR, and Improved HDR