NVIDIA has today announced the latest SHIELD Android TV update is now in the process of rolling out to both the 2015 and 2017 models. This update comes in the form of Software Upgrade 6.3 and follows on from the 6.2 update which first became available towards the end of November, 2017. The new update brings with it a number of improvements and enhancements, including various smaller new features and supports.
In terms of those newer features and supports, NVIDIA has confirmed that following the update SHIELD owners will be able to view their connected Nest cameras on the TV, as well as making use of Google Assistant to control in excess of 1,000 smart home devices. Plex TV support is also being expanded to allow SHIELD owners to automatically remove commercials from shows recorded using Plex DVR. While other apps seeing their support growing is the VLC app (which now not only supports Picture-in-Picture (PIP) but also 360-degree video) and the Cartoon Network app – which now has a greater selection of kid-friendly content available. In addition, LEGO TV is also now available on the SHIELD, as are exclusive VH1 clips and shows. There are also some audio-focused improvements on offer with this latest update, including SiriusXM support and lossless audio streaming support through Tidal.
As for the more general improvements, Upgrade 6.3 includes the latest Android monthly security updates including protection against the likes of Spectre. Although the main bulk of the improvements seems to be in reference to the SHIELD Remote and Controller, with one of the most notable being better ‘low battery’ information. While the changelog also notes the updated version includes a “new USB compatibility mode” for improved use with USB connected drives. It is worth noting that a number of the newer features (Cartoon Network, Google Assistant, LEGO TV, Nest, and VH1) are only available to SHIELD devices in the US. While in Europe, the Eurosport app is now available, as is TV NOW PLUS in Germany and Movistar+ in Spain. As mentioned, the update is already in the process of rolling out and therefore is likely to already be waiting and ready to install on a number of devices.