Nvidia officially announced the availability of its Nvidia Shield Android TV with 16 GB and 500 GB model options on May 28.
Nvidia initially introduced the company's 16 GB Android TV platform at the Game Developers Conference (GDC) in March, with a heavy focus on gaming. However, with the official launch, Nvidia was able to manufacture two Shield models that promise to transform one's entertainment experience to another level of playing TV and watching great movies through featured streaming content apps such as Hulu Plus, Netflix, Sling TV and YouTube.
The Nvidia Shield 16 GB model can be purchased for $199.99, while the Nvidia Shield Pro 500 GB model costs $299.99. Customers can also buy optional accessories like the Shield remote with voice search for $49.99 and a stand for $29.99 to optimize the experience. Out of the box, there is a Shield unit bundled with a Shield controller and an HDMI cable. Customers can order an additional controller at $59.99 to enjoy Nvidia Shield with a partner.
For a limited period, customers who buy the Nvidia Shield or Nvidia Shield Pro will be awarded a $30 Google Play credit, plus three months of unlimited Google Play music.
Nvidia is aiming to differentiate its Android TV platform from its competitors, as Nvidia Shield has the ability to play and stream games using Nvidia GRID, plus it is possible to download and play AAA titles such as Trine 2, Doom 3, Dead Trigger 2, Modern Combat 5, Asphalt 8, War Thunder, Garou: Mark of the Wolves and more. The Shield supports all types of video codecs and home theater greatness and comes with Plex. There is also apparently a VLC app available on Android TV. Android TV will also integrate live TV soon, so users have that to look forward to.
With a great Internet connection of a constant download speed of 25 Mbps, apps like Netflix and YouTube will allow customers to stream 4K content, and no other Android TV device offers this perk at the moment.
The very powerful 64-bit Tegra X 1 processor with a 256-core GPU and 3 GB of RAM power the Nvidia Shield, which boasts speeds at least 30 times faster than the existing platforms on the market. The device also features two USB 3.0 ports and a micro SD slot that can support up to 128 GB.
Consumers in the Canada or U.S. can order the Nvidia Shield at the official Nvidia website as well as Best Buy and Amazon, with free two-day shipping for Prime members ordering from the latter.
