Though seeing a late July release, Nvidia's Shield handheld gaming console finally got a hefty update, including several new features and added abilities.
One of the biggest features of the Shield when announced earlier this year was GameStream function, which allowed users to stream PC games to the portable through desktop PCs equipped with the graphics card maker's GTX 650 series set or higher. Running in "beta" for some until now, the feature is now optimized for 60 frames per second with ultra-low Wi-Fi latency.
The feature should perfectly complement the bonus Console Mode, allowing Shield devices to be plugged into an HDTV for home console-like gaming. Through the portable, users can play Android games, browse the web, watch movies and enjoy other content at 1080p. Sheild's Xbox 360-like controller can connect through Bluetooth but Nvidia has given Nyko's PlayPad pro controller certification for use on the console. Coupled with GameStream, Console Mode can bring PC gaming a living room environment, according to a blog post by NVidia's Technical Marketing Manager Jason Paul.
Since the console's release, the biggest gripe against the console was its lack of controller support for touch-screen only titles like Angry Birds and Jetpack Joyride. That changes through the newly added GamePad Mapper, giving the ability to map virtual joysticks, buttons and gestures to the Shield's physical controls. Users can even share the control schemes with friends or download Nvidia created ones.
Previously running on Android 4.2.1., the graphic card maker's first portable gaming device now gets 4.3 Jelly Bean. Besides making the system feel faster and smoother, the upgrade brings features such as restricted profiles, expandable notifications and other improvements. Users will also be able to free up the device's internal storage by moving .OBB and .APK files to external flash cards.
Available now, the update comes as Nvidia announces its new upcoming GeForce GTX 780 Ti along with price drops to the GTX 780 and 770. Buying any of the three graphics cards will land buyers free copies of Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag, Splinter Cell: Blacklist and Batman: Arkham Origins and $100 discount on a Shield.
