Nvidia has released its second over-the-air (OTA) update with software build number 1.2 for the Shield Android TV. This recommended upgrade should be easily visible on the Android TV homepage, but owners can also install it manually by clicking "Settings" and choosing the "About" button, then selecting "System Updates."
The changelog indicates several enhancements for the Shield's preinstalled app functions and remote and wireless controller. First, the software upgrade has noticeably added the very useful feature of users being notified onscreen if the Shield Remote is running low on battery, a feature similar to one on the Shield controller, as well as a snappier response from the Shield Remote.
If the user partners the Shield Android TV unit with a 4K-capable TV, it should be noted that the upgrade also enables 4K support in Google's Photos and Videos app, which allows sharing and observing high-resolution pictures at full quality.
The streaming performance for both Google Play Movies and Netflix is now optimized, and the upgrade also adds the MPEG-2 codec support for the Shield Android TV. According to Google, new Android TV apps will be available soon, including Fox News, HBO Go, Fox Now, HBO Now, FX Now, Qello, Vudu, USA Today, Twitch, Vimeo, UFC and WWE. Over the past week, TV apps CBS News, CBS Sports, Fox Sports GO and EPIX have become available for the Shield Android TV.
Nvidia GameStream is also getting a speed enhancement, but this upgrade requires gamers to update the GeForce Experience on one's GTX-powered gaming PC on the local network, which is version 2.25 BETA for the PC. Nvidia has also boosted the audio level of broadcast or recorded gameplay using Nvidia Share.
The changelog also indicates improvements for SD card functionality that, hopefully, will allow gamers to install apps directly to the external storage. For Android gamers, one can now play DOOM 3: BFG as well as Machinarium and Trine 2, which have recently been released for Shield Android TV. Additionally, the Game of Thrones app has been rolled out with an update this week that enables full access to 1080p resolution for the Android TV.
A complete list of the changelog has been posted on the Nvidia forums by an employee.
