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Nvidia’s Shield TV gained a huge reception as one of the best streaming devices when it first launched in 2015. However, as we approach the five-year mark since the last model’s release in 2019, speculation is rife about whether Nvidia will ever unveil a new iteration of the Shield Android TV.
The company’s recent focus on artificial intelligence and high-end GPUs such as the incoming Nvidia RTX 5000 has left many wondering if the Shield TV line has been thrown under the rug.
Despite its age, the current Shield TV continues to receive updates and remains competitive in the streaming device market. However, the 2019 Shield TV Pro, as with any device, may be starting to feel outdated to users, suggesting it might be time for Nvidia to release a new Shield TV hardware model.
In this article, we’ll explore the Shield TV’s current state, analyze the likelihood of a new release, and consider the features that could revitalize this iconic streaming device.
Key Takeaways
- Nvidia’s Shield TV has been a top streaming device since its launch in 2015, with the last hardware update in 2019.
- It’s hard to beat after five years, but Nvidia has a focus on AI and high-end GPUs at the moment.
- A new model could benefit from features like a new processor, updated codec support, enhanced gaming, improved connectivity, and expanded storage.
- There is no official word on a new model, so users must decide whether to wait or consider alternatives like Roku Ultra, Apple TV 4K, or Amazon Fire TV Cube.
What is Nvidia Shield TV?
The Nvidia Shield TV is a premium Android TV-based streaming media player that set the standard for home entertainment devices when it was first released in May 2015. The latest version is powered by Nvidia’s Tegra X1+ processor, runs on Android version 11.0, and offers quality performance for both streaming and gaming applications.
The Shield TV can function as a Plex media server, a GeForce Now cloud gaming client, and even as a SmartThings hub for home automation. The Shield TV’s longevity is remarkable, with models dating back to 2015 still receiving software updates and new features.
Will There Be a Shield TV Model in 2024?
At the time of writing, there are no substantiated rumors or official announcements from Nvidia regarding a new model of Shield TV. The last update to the product line was in 2019 when Nvidia released the Nvidia Shield TV Pro 2019, and since then, Nvidia has been relatively quiet about the future of its streaming device.
Several factors may have contributed to the uncertainty surrounding a new release. The most notable of them is Nvidia’s focus on AI and GPUs which has helped Nvidia stocks sustain a bullish run since last year. The company has been experiencing tremendous success in the AI hardware market through stock purchases and funding deals.
This new-found success may have shifted priorities away from consumer electronics like the Shield TV.
Another factor why we’ve not seen a newer Shield TV model could be due to the continued support for existing models. Nvidia has maintained a long streak of update schedule for older Shield TV devices, which may have watered down the demand for a new Shield TV model.
Although ask any streaming forum, and that demand is there.
Features We’d Like in a New Nvidia Shield TV Model
As the Nvidia Shield TV continues to be among the favorite Android streaming devices, the anticipation for a new model is accompanied by a wishlist of features that could make it even more impressive.
Here are some of the most desired upgrades and enhancements that users would like to see in a new Nvidia Shield TV model:
1. A New Processor
The current Shield TV models are powered by the Tegra X1+ processor with a 256-core GPU and 3 GB RAM, which, while powerful at the time of release, may be less desirable now due to the latest advancements in chips in the past two years.
A new Nvidia Shield TV would benefit greatly from a more advanced processor, potentially one that includes Nvidia’s latest AI and gaming technologies. This could lead to better overall performance, improved gaming capabilities, and support for new features.
2. Updated Codec Support
While the current Shield Pro model support a wide range of codecs, some users on Reddit have expressed a desire for the inclusion of newer codecs like AV1 and AV2. These codecs offer improved compression for smoother streaming and better video quality at lower bandwidths. Adding support for these modern codecs would ensure that the Shield TV remains relevant in an evolving streaming landscape and can handle the latest content formats.
3. Enhanced Gaming Support
Gaming has always been a big driver of fanfare around the Shield TV. While the device supports game streaming through Nvidia’s GeForce Now service, there is room for improvement.
A new model could offer better native gaming support, perhaps by incorporating features similar to those found in dedicated gaming consoles. This might include exclusive Android games, a translation layer for PC games, or even advanced AI-based gaming enhancements.
4. Improved Connectivity and Ports
The current Nvidia Shield TV (2019 model) boasts HDMI 2.0b, delivering 4K HDR content at 60 fps with HDCP 2.2 and CEC support. While sufficient for most streaming and gaming, an upgrade to HDMI 2.1 in a new model would raise the performance.
This standard offers increased bandwidth (up to 48 Gbps), allowing for higher 4K refresh rates of up to 120 Hz, ideal for gamers. Additionally, features like Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) would enhance gameplay by reducing screen tearing and optimizing latency.
The current model also includes Gigabit Ethernet, dual-band Wi-Fi (802.11ac), Bluetooth 5.0, and two USB 3.0 ports. In a new iteration, users would appreciate improvements such as Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) or Wi-Fi 6E for faster wireless speeds, USB-C ports for more versatile connectivity, and possibly Thunderbolt support for even quicker data transfer.
5. Expanded Storage Options
Shield TV Pro model offers 16 GB of internal flash storage, which many users find insufficient for their needs, especially when using the device as a media server. While this is expandable through a USB flash or hard drive, the base model’s limited storage capacity can be a drawback for those who want to store more content directly on the device.
In a new model, users would appreciate larger internal storage options, potentially starting at 128 GB or 256 GB, to accommodate modern applications and media libraries.
Should You Wait for a New Nvidia Shield TV?
With a lot of uncertainties trailing the Shield TV, you may be wondering whether it’s right to wait for the release of a new model, stick with the old one and its updates, or perhaps go for an alternative.
If you need a streaming device immediately, waiting for an unannounced Shield TV update may not be practical. According to many users in this Reddit thread, the current model still offers excellent performance and robust gaming capabilities.
However, if you’re not in a rush, it might be worth waiting a few more months to see if Nvidia announces anything new. For those open to alternatives, several competitors now offer compelling options.
The Roku Ultra is known for its user-friendly interface and extensive app support, while the Apple TV 4K provides integration with the Apple ecosystem and powerful performance. The Amazon Fire TV Cube is also a solid option if you want to combine streaming capabilities with Alexa smart home features.
The Bottom Line
While there is no official word on a new Nvidia Shield TV model, we can’t totally rule out the possibility of an announcement. The continued Shield TV update from Nvidia could mean they have plans to keep this product line under the Nvidia umbrella, which by way of extension, means that there is hope for a new Shield TV beyond the 2019 model.
As we keep our fingers crossed on a potential announcement from Nvidia, users have the option to decide whether waiting for Nvidia is the best thing, or grab one of the Nvidia’s Shield TV alternatives.
FAQs
When Will Nvidia release the next Shield TV?
How long will the current Nvidia Shield TV models receive updates?
Should I wait for a new Nvidia Shield TV model?
What are some alternatives to the Nvidia Shield TV?
References
- New Shield TV in 2024? DoVi FEL support? (Reddit)
- Is the shield tv pro still worth it? (Reddit)
