Most of the streaming and gaming enthusiasts consider the NVIDIA Shield as a device for them. What does make this little box so powerful? Well, it actually does have something up its sleeves. It’s presumably endowed with an operating system you’ve heard of. Let us delve into what that is. Operating system really matters as it defines how and when everything occurs through the process of usage.
According to Android TV: the Heart of NVIDIA Shield
This part is about the major operating system from NVIDIA Shield.
What is Android TV?
Android TV is an altered version of what Android is going to be for televisions and other streaming devices, and Google has really been behind it. Think of it as the brain in a smart television that understands Android; it’s therefore based on Android and open-sourced, meaning that developers can change it.
Why Android TV for NVIDIA Shield?
There are a solid few reasons why NVIDIA would probably go for Android TV. First, they can customize it exactly to the Shield by really tailoring it. Second, you have another vast app store. That’s it: the Google Play Store. Third, it is a killer integration with Google products, making it all accessible.
NVIDIA’s Enhancements and Customizations
Let’s see how NVIDIA makes Android TV even better on the Shield.
Shield Experience Updates
NVIDIA adds its own coat of the software to Android TV; it is called Shield Experience. It enhances the user experience. NVIDIA pushes new updates regularly. Those updates improve features or introduce new ones. It also has nice features among which is AI upscaling, GeForce NOW integration.
Exclusive Features
There are some characteristics found only in NVIDIA Shield devices. One such feature is cloud gaming called GeForce NOW. Another such feature would be the NVIDIA Games app that helps you in hunting down games which seem to run or play quite well on the Shield. Also, share your games from your PC with GameStream.
Goodness of Android TV on NVIDIA Shield
There are many good things about having Android TV in the NVIDIA Shield.
Apps Ecosystem
It is probably, if not most, that you get to have your apps installed. And there are tons of services streaming, including Netflix, Hulu, and of course, Amazon Prime Video. Plenty of cool things and emulators out there for gamers, which can include apps for work or some fun.
Seamless Integration with Google Assistant
The NVIDIA Shield is just too great as a device for Google Assistant. You can use it in different ways to change volumes, find a show, or even turn something off in your smart home.
Chromecast Built-in
So they’re built-in, so you can do all that from the phone, tablet, or computer directly to the television. So you can display photos or videos. Good for watching in front of the TV.
Yet Drawbacks and Limitations
Of good stuff, there can also be some things to consider.
Software Updates
Delay will happen sometimes when an update turns up. Older models can never get updates anymore. Because the Android world is a little fragmented.
App Compatibility
There are some apps that may not work smoothly under this system. Some apps might not even be there. And that could be frustrating when you really want to use a specific app.
Dependence on Google Services
You are talking about the Google stuff that is used to render the Shield most useful. It simply means that you are giving out your data to Google. This might be a point of concern to some people. But this generally does not exclusively concern the Shield.
Future of NVIDIA Shield OS: Where to the next in the operating system of NVIDIA Shield?
Android TV Progression: Android TV seems getting better and better. It’s still from time to time receiving nice features and improvements. This would obviously make the Shield more amazing.
NVIDIA Yet Continued Impressions: NVIDIA is still loyal to Shield. They probably would keep pushing software updates on it. They can also release new hardware for it. Bright future seen.
Conclusion
So, it runs the Android TV operating system, and thus it boasts some excellent features and an impressive application database. It has some minor issues, but overall, it has all features one can wish for in a system. NVIDIA Shield is the prime choice for streaming devices.