If you have an Nvidia Shield TV device you are probably already aware that it’s received a number of software updates over the years since the first variant launched back in 2015. Nvidia has refreshed the hardware a couple of times with the 2019 and Stick models, but it has made no differentiation between the devices when it comes to rolling out new OS updates, and the new Android TV 11 firmware is no different. Rolling out to all of the Nvidia Shield TV devices the new firmware includes Shield Experience 9.0 and a raft of new features such as 4K gaming with GeForce Now and app updates.
Having skipped Android TV 10 due to the lack of new features and options that it offered, Nvidia’s Shield Experience 9.0 first appeared back in October by way of a mention on Reddit by a beta tester.
Possibly the biggest new feature is being able to experience GeForce Now cloud gaming in 4K and HDR with 7.1 surround sound which is exclusive to the Shield TV and available to RTX 3080 members. Other gaming additions include support for the “Stadia button” on Xbox, PlayStation, and Shield controllers.
There are new privacy features that give users the ability to grant additional permissions to apps on a one-time basis while the Gboard keyboard gains the option for users to input voice to text via the Google Assistant button on the Shield TV remote.
A new energy-saving setting will automatically disconnect Bluetooth when the Shield TV goes to sleep so that your accessories won’t go flat. The update includes support for the aptX codec with wireless headphones and the Google Play Movies & TV app now supports Dolby Vision. You’ll also be able to use the Movies Anywhere service which lets you access your content on streaming services such as Apple TV, VUDU, Amazon, and IMDB TV. The new IQIYI app features popular Asian movies as well as TV and variety shows for free with multilingual support for menus, search, and subtitles.
The following new games are also included:
Apex Legends Emergence
- With the unraveling of the new season, Emergence introduces a new and exciting competitive mode along with the new legend Seer, the new Rampage LMG weapon, and an updated map.
Life is Strange: True Colors
- Deep in the mountains of Colorado, you’ll find Haven Springs. Play as Alex Chen and discover shocking secrets as you use your psychic powers to unravel the mysteries of this small mining town.
Far Cry 6
- Play as Dani Rojas male or female, and experience a compelling storyline that takes you from being a reluctant citizen to a leader fighting against Anton’s regime.
Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege Year 6 Season 3 Crystal Guard
- Play as Osa and secure your team’s position with her Talon-8 clear shield, it’s transparent, bulletproof, and can be carried or deployed to give a protective line of sight while formulating an attack.
New US-based Shield TV owners also have the option of signing up for a 6-month subscription to Peacock Premium at no additional cost, courtesy of Google. To redeem the offer, new Shield TV owners must subscribe through the Peacock Premium banner on the For You or Apps tab with a new or existing Google account.
The Android TV 11 update is rolling out to Shield TV devices right now across the globe.
