Develop Bugs

How limited is the HD 8.9?

Hi guys,
Since this is the only HD 8.9 subforum I´ve decided to post in here, but if I should´ve posted else where, please feel free to move my thread.
I´d like to know how limited is the HD 8.9 and it comes to installing apps. My most used apps are SSL launcher, Gmail, MX Player, ES Explorer, Folder Player and Chrome. Can these be installed on the HD 8.9? Can I play videos with MX Player and view them on an HDTV via hdmi? I watch mkv, avi, dvx, etc....if I´m able to instal MX Player I should not have any issues playing back these files, right?

You can root and install play. I found a chrome apk online and use it daily. Most play apps that I've tried never have any problems. Currents for example will fc on sign in but everything else I've tried works.
This will probably get moved to q&a but its not a big deal. We've been using the 7in forums for now as a universal fire HD spot
Gmail and Chrome do absolutely work. Haven't tried mx yet or any of the others. Root explorer works.
Sent from my MB860 using Tapatalk 2

rawfa said:
Hi guys,
Since this is the only HD 8.9 subforum I´ve decided to post in here, but if I should´ve posted else where, please feel free to move my thread.
I´d like to know how limited is the HD 8.9 and it comes to installing apps. My most used apps are SSL launcher, Gmail, MX Player, ES Explorer, Folder Player and Chrome. Can these be installed on the HD 8.9? Can I play videos with MX Player and view them on an HDTV via hdmi? I watch mkv, avi, dvx, etc....if I´m able to instal MX Player I should not have any issues playing back these files, right?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Without root, I had MX Player, Gmail, and ES Explorer installed from Amazon market for free, and Chrome was sideloaded from an apk I found online.
With root, I was able to get Google Play store working (and all the root stuff for ES Explorer, etc.). Haven't tried Folder Player or SSL Launcher, but Nova launcher works fine.

rawfa said:
Hi guys,
Since this is the only HD 8.9 subforum I´ve decided to post in here, but if I should´ve posted else where, please feel free to move my thread.
I´d like to know how limited is the HD 8.9 and it comes to installing apps. My most used apps are SSL launcher, Gmail, MX Player, ES Explorer, Folder Player and Chrome. Can these be installed on the HD 8.9? Can I play videos with MX Player and view them on an HDTV via hdmi? I watch mkv, avi, dvx, etc....if I´m able to instal MX Player I should not have any issues playing back these files, right?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can confirm Gmail, MX player, ES Explorer, Chrome all work fine. (I use ICS stock Browser though)
MX Player supports all the mentioned formats. I haven't tried hdmi output since I lost my adapter.
PsychoCemia said:
Without root, I had MX Player, Gmail, and ES Explorer installed from Amazon market for free, and Chrome was sideloaded from an apk I found online.
With root, I was able to get Google Play store working (and all the root stuff for ES Explorer, etc.). Haven't tried Folder Player or SSL Launcher, but Nova launcher works fine.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you get any lag in Nova Launcher homescreen on landscape mode?
The scrolling for me is laggy in landscape and smooth in portrait.

aaron.a said:
Currents for example will fc on sign in but everything else I've tried works.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I got Currents to work on my KFHD 8.9 by moving the .apk to /system/app FWIW . But you'll need Root and a program like "Root Explorer" to do that.

Could someone please make a video or a step by step guide on how to root the kindle fire 8.9 HD not Sony tablet. I tried to root and nothing happen besides a factory reset I would really appreciate if someone can make one or point me towards one. Thank u!
*
Rooted Evo dead.
Rooted Evo shift dead.
Rooted Galaxy s3 alive and well!

So gmail has to be installed from amazon market to run? Or did i so something wrong with the one downloaded off google play?
joshtycobb said:
Could someone please make a video or a step by step guide on how to root the kindle fire 8.9 HD not Sony tablet. I tried to root and nothing happen besides a factory reset I would really appreciate if someone can make one or point me towards one. Thank u!
*
Rooted Evo dead.
Rooted Evo shift dead.
Rooted Galaxy s3 alive and well!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To make sure itll work, check if ADB picks it up with a adb devices command
Sent from my KFJWI

slacka-vt said:
I got Currents to work on my KFHD 8.9 by moving the .apk to /system/app FWIW . But you'll need Root and a program like "Root Explorer" to do that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
that's awesome! ty
edit: yup, worked for me too =)

I have currents working without root. Just needed to make sure that the google login service apk installed. Only things I haven't been able to get working are talk, gmail (but the built in email manager works extremely well imho) and market. obviously other launchers don't work either.

dopepope said:
I have currents working without root. Just needed to make sure that the google login service apk installed. Only things I haven't been able to get working are talk, gmail (but the built in email manager works extremely well imho) and market. obviously other launchers don't work either.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Talk, Gmail, Market, and other Launchers work for me. If you haven't, look up the tutorial for how to install the Play store. I just installed everything else from that and they worked fine.

MX Player constantly closes. It works great on my galaxy nexus but doesn't work on my kindle.
I had to convert movies to mp4 and play them in the native player.

qw3rty3 said:
MX Player constantly closes. It works great on my galaxy nexus but doesn't work on my kindle.
I had to convert movies to mp4 and play them in the native player.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I use VLC Player Beta, sideloaded, with great success!

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It's a great device,
KFHD 8.9 (root & playstore) - XT912 - HTC Nexus ONE - GT3113 - MID7048

Thinking about an android tablet lately, my brother got a galaxy tab 2 which i like but the display resolution is a bit too low for me. Now the Kindle Fire 8.9 seems quite nice, is it with a bit of android and rooting knowledge possible to make almost anything work like on any other tablet?

fBx said:
Thinking about an android tablet lately, my brother got a galaxy tab 2 which i like but the display resolution is a bit too low for me. Now the Kindle Fire 8.9 seems quite nice, is it with a bit of android and rooting knowledge possible to make almost anything work like on any other tablet?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'd say yes...here's what I did:
1 - Rooted my tablet
2 - Installed Gapps(googleservicesframework, accountsandsyncsettings, googleloginservices, play store, gmail, etc)
3 - Installed Market Helper
4 - Installed Titanium Backup(paid version)
5 - Installed launcher I wanted
6 - Uninstalled default launcher plus TONS of other bloatware
It took a little bit of time to do, but it was definitely worth it at the end of the day.
Out of the box(and other ppl may have different experiences) but I was only pulling about 6500 on Antutu, now it's up to 9300 Antutu Benchmark, and 2700 on Quadrant. That's without tweaks installed, just rooted and bloatware removed...and remember this is on ICS 4.0.4...when I was running CM10.1 4.2.2 I was pulling about 10,500 for my Antutu. The N7 being a quad core averages aaround 12,000...I think that's pretty good. Once CM10.1 gets Audio, I COMPLETELY plan on using it as a daily driver. It's just...better. 8.9" screen is the perfect size for me...I love it.

lp894 said:
Out of the box(and other ppl may have different experiences) but I was only pulling about 6500 on Antutu, now it's up to 9300 Antutu Benchmark, and 2700 on Quadrant. That's without tweaks installed, just rooted and bloatware removed...and remember this is on ICS 4.0.4...when I was running CM10.1 4.2.2 I was pulling about 10,500 for my Antutu. The N7 being a quad core averages aaround 12,000...I think that's pretty good. Once CM10.1 gets Audio, I COMPLETELY plan on using it as a daily driver. It's just...better. 8.9" screen is the perfect size for me...I love it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Antutu on stock is between 9500 and 9700. Your 6500 must be a typo.

twa_priv said:
Antutu on stock is between 9500 and 9700. Your 6500 must be a typo.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
no sir...6500 out the box. couldn't figure out why either

lp894 said:
no sir...6500 out the box. couldn't figure out why either
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You got 6500 on stock because the antutu version you get from the amazon store is ancient compared to the current one you get from the play store. You need to use the same version to compare scores.

let me rephrase...stock+root+ apps. first app I downloaded was antutu from the play market. I kid you not, I was pulling 6500...like i said, I'm not sure why. I was only getting around 1600 for processor vs 3200-3500 I get now. Almost as if one of the cores wasn't enabled

Why is there no section for Kindle HD 8.9? I want a pure android tablet that is bigger than 7" but less than 10". Does the Kindle HD 8.9 have any roms yet like CM 10 that is FULLY stable? I love the size and form factor as well as the screen of the Kindle HD 8.9" but if it doesn't have android and I can't multitask use google talk and just do general productivity stuff then I will have to go with a 10" or a small nexus 7. I had the nexus 7" and found it a little bit too small. I also had a 10" and found it a little bit too big. I think 8 or 9 would be perfect so it's either this or the ipad mini. Not too big of a fan of IOS so if this can get android, I would be happy.
Can anyone tell me what the status is on custom android roms and whether the Kindle in the past has gotten great development or if good rom dev is sparce? I would appreciate it. Thanks

[Q] Buying First Ever Tablet - General & galaxy tab & note 10" questions

Hi there! I'm an old-fashioned windows 7 pc user with NO smart phone or android experience. I've never had a touch screen device besides a nintendo DS! However, now that I'm thinking of taking vacations & loving watching more tv and media, I'm in the market for a portable media-consumption device that can cooperate with my existing media library on my windows 7 desktop and external HDD's.
Now, the market is flooded, black friday is upon us, and I'm LOST in a sea of devices and options. Please help me figure out what I need to look for.
I have a budget of about $500 (+/-) and want a ~10in tablet with a full HD or greater display that is ideal for viewing HD media either indoors or out and fair battery life. Decent keyboard and gamepad peripheral options are also somewhat important.
The main problems I am facing are doubts about connectivity and compatibility. I have hundreds of GB of HD video (mpeg4/h264 in .mkv files) including many subtitled files, and mp3 music stored on my wireless-g networked home pc & external hard disk drives (one with its own power source and once toshiba canvio that just plugs in via USB) that I wish to have accessible for playback on my mobile device. When at home I would like to play videos that are already on my networked PC or its harddrives through the network, or at least the ability to play external files on drives via usb. When travelling, I would like to bring either an microsdhc (the highest capacity available, 128gb?) or my 1tb canvio portabl HDD.
I've done some research on video playback and windows network filesharing, but without any android experience feel very lost. What are my options (Both tablet models and apps/software/accessories that work well) for playback of media at home, when my tablet is connected to the same wifi as my PC? (e.g. watching tv in bed) Conversely, what are my options for portable entertainment and storage?
I'd prefer not to have to root, as this will be a heavy investment in my first portable device - but if I must, I will - but keep in mind I am an absolute novice.
secondary considerations to viewing my existing library of media files are gamepad and keyboard peripherals - ease of connectivity and availability/best models.
Finally, I have read a variety of reviews and narrowed my choices to the galaxy tab S 10.1, note 10.1, asus transformer pad line, or sony xperia latest gen. However, this was just a overview of existing 2013/2014 models and as I have never owned older tablets or android devices, really I am more concerned with how to achieve my aforementioned goals on any device, and then picking the best device for my needs.
Thank you!!

For videos the screen of the tab s makes a huge difference. But you'll need someone to help for debloating and some android tricks to get this device to its full potential. Video codecs or connectivity won't be an issue.

Also you might have some SD card problems because of kitkat. Root can fix that. The tab s can break really easy if dropped and is expensive to replace.

Hmm - can anyone please share specifics as to how I could access media on my windows pc (on the same wifi network) on a tablet? I saw info about an app called splashtop... would this be the way to go? If not, what is? AFAIK android doesn't have CIFS support...
I don't want to buy any tablet at all if I can't connect to view HD media that is already on my pc. connecting a harddrive via usb would be OK, but cumbersome for bed-viewing, etc. And, the Tab S only has the micro usb port. Halp?

As far as your concerns with playing media spend 5 bucks on the google play store and get Mx Player Pro it literally plays everything and plays it so beautifully on a tab s screen which is the absolute best screen on a tablet. Also I saw a thread something about staples you can get the tab s 10 inch for 300 bucks which is a steal since it's normally 500 bucks. Think it's in the general tab. Cheers.

Thanks CCieslin, I was already planning on getting mxplayer as I heard good things about it.
My real question is, how do I get it to play media that exists on my home pc, not my tablet's internal memory or SD card?

my 10.5 is arriving tomorrow. this will be my first tablet and first samsung device.
i am having a good read on things as I have absolutely no experience on a sammy device.

Emirena said:
Hmm - can anyone please share specifics as to how I could access media on my windows pc (on the same wifi network) on a tablet? I saw info about an app called splashtop... would this be the way to go? If not, what is? AFAIK android doesn't have CIFS support...
I don't want to buy any tablet at all if I can't connect to view HD media that is already on my pc. connecting a harddrive via usb would be OK, but cumbersome for bed-viewing, etc. And, the Tab S only has the micro usb port. Halp?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Install Plex on the PC. Then you can use the client on the tablet. Plex is about the best for media servers. You can choose to sync the content to the tablet (that may still be a pay feature) or stream it. You can also set it up to stream outside your network.

nicholb said:
Install Plex on the PC. Then you can use the client on the tablet. Plex is about the best for media servers. You can choose to sync the content to the tablet (that may still be a pay feature) or stream it. You can also set it up to stream outside your network.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks! I found a review of "top free DLNA media center apps" on a blog that led me in this direction!
I hate to say, Ccieslin, that staples was a bunch of a-holes and refused to give me the $299 price - it was either price match the online price (they lowered it to $399 too) or get $100 off the STORE price (which is still $499!! WTF!) and the argued with me and insisted that the staples.com website prices have NOTHING to do with in-store prices and the website and stores are "separate operations" despite having store info, in stock searches, and coupons for in-store use. They claim the coupon was mis-printed and that it was meant to say "$100 off tablets at normal price of $400+" not "normally priced $400+" what a disaster.
We ended up getting it, but elsewhere.
Now, people mention removing bloat - where to start? Rooting, obviously - something I've never done - and I assume installing some different UI or ROM? And, will an OTG cable alone enable external NTFS storage, or am I stuck with the microsd unless I hax?
Thanks for all the help.

Emirena said:
Thanks! I found a review of "top free DLNA media center apps" on a blog that led me in this direction!
I hate to say, Ccieslin, that staples was a bunch of a-holes and refused to give me the $299 price - it was either price match the online price (they lowered it to $399 too) or get $100 off the STORE price (which is still $499!! WTF!) and the argued with me and insisted that the staples.com website prices have NOTHING to do with in-store prices and the website and stores are "separate operations" despite having store info, in stock searches, and coupons for in-store use. They claim the coupon was mis-printed and that it was meant to say "$100 off tablets at normal price of $400+" not "normally priced $400+" what a disaster.
We ended up getting it, but elsewhere.
Now, people mention removing bloat - where to start? Rooting, obviously - something I've never done - and I assume installing some different UI or ROM? And, will an OTG cable alone enable external NTFS storage, or am I stuck with the microsd unless I hax?
Thanks for all the help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For rooting there's a thread in the android development. Rooting just installs root and doesn't wipe everything. You can install a custom recovery to install a custom ROM like cm11. Idk about otg as I never owned one. To remove bloat just root and download an app called system app remover and pick the stuffmyou don't need. Hope this helps!

Emirena said:
Hmm - can anyone please share specifics as to how I could access media on my windows pc (on the same wifi network) on a tablet? I saw info about an app called splashtop... would this be the way to go? If not, what is? AFAIK android doesn't have CIFS support...
I don't want to buy any tablet at all if I can't connect to view HD media that is already on my pc. connecting a harddrive via usb would be OK, but cumbersome for bed-viewing, etc. And, the Tab S only has the micro usb port. Halp?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can definitely play streaming media:
- from pc or device shared in pc
- from other device as note 3 or galaxy s4 s5
- from an hd connected on a router (if your router has that feature)
- from a pendrive or hd connected on note/s (ntfs will require paragon ntfs or other)
- from a cloud
to:
- your tab screen or
- smart tv on same network
you can even play through tab a video located on your note3 to your smart tv. works like a charm.
no need for root or any special sw. I just use es file manager free and a secondary free video player to handle some formats not supported by stock player as flv .
the native file manager can not stream movies over ftp an not handle lan setup. es file mgr can. shame on you samsung! ?
hope this helps you to clarify the possibilities.
use any cheap wifi router to put everybody at same lan and you'll succeed. works over wan too.
cheers
ss of network panel es file mgr set lans ftps clouds .....
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Sent from my SM-T805M using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

aldrighi said:
You can definitely play streaming media:
- from pc or device shared in pc
- from other device as note 3 or galaxy s4 s5
- from an hd connected on a router (if your router has that feature)
- from a pendrive or hd connected on note/s (ntfs will require paragon ntfs or other)
- from a cloud
to:
- your tab screen or
- smart tv on same network
you can even play through tab a video located on your note3 to your smart tv. works like a charm.
no need for root or any special sw. I just use es file manager free and a secondary free video player to handle some formats not supported by stock player as flv .
the native file manager can not stream movies over ftp an not handle lan setup. es file mgr can. shame on you samsung! ?
hope this helps you to clarify the possibilities.
use any cheap wifi router to put everybody at same lan and you'll succeed. works over wan too.
cheers
ss of network panel es file mgr set lans ftps clouds .....
Sent from my SM-T805M using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
DUHAsianSKILLZ said:
For rooting there's a thread in the android development. Rooting just installs root and doesn't wipe everything. You can install a custom recovery to install a custom ROM like cm11. Idk about otg as I never owned one. To remove bloat just root and download an app called system app remover and pick the stuffmyou don't need. Hope this helps!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks! both of you helped a lot. @duhasianSKILLS:I found some info on the odin root program for the galaxy tab S 10.5 . I'll look into custom recovery and ROM's - any recommendations for a noob who doesn't know what a custom recovery even is? So, to clarify, the majority of the lag/bloat on the 10.5 is due to programs apps and features you can just disable once you've got a custom ROM installed? Seems simple enough to clean up, then.
@aldrighi: awesome - so esfilemanager is an alternative to DLNA media server programs like PLEX? I read into plex a bit and was surprised that it sounded like proper filenaming and tagging was required to stream files - I have a lot of obscure or custom videos and a huge library - I really don't want to have to go through and rename hundreds upon hundreds of files just to play them!
great advice. I'm currently purchasing a case (the samsung book cover is sold out on amazon atm - only alternative is keyboard case - might just grab the keyboard while I'm at it, seems useful!) , OTG cable, Ps4 controller, and microSDHC 128gb

Emirena said:
Thanks! both of you helped a lot. @duhasianSKILLS:I found some info on the odin root program for the galaxy tab S 10.5 . I'll look into custom recovery and ROM's - any recommendations for a noob who doesn't know what a custom recovery even is? So, to clarify, the majority of the lag/bloat on the 10.5 is due to programs apps and features you can just disable once you've got a custom ROM installed? Seems simple enough to clean up, then.
@aldrighi: awesome - so esfilemanager is an alternative to DLNA media server programs like PLEX? I read into plex a bit and was surprised that it sounded like proper filenaming and tagging was required to stream files - I have a lot of obscure or custom videos and a huge library - I really don't want to have to go through and rename hundreds upon hundreds of files just to play them!
great advice. I'm currently purchasing a case (the samsung book cover is sold out on amazon atm - only alternative is keyboard case - might just grab the keyboard while I'm at it, seems useful!) , OTG cable, Ps4 controller, and microSDHC 128gb
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes the lag will be gone if you install a custom rom. Right now I'm on stock rooted and run in gym a custom kernel. You won't really need a custom kernel since custom kernels are mostly for tweaking CPU, Gpu etc. If you root then you can disable apps like Knox, screen saver etc. So stock Rom with root is your best bet. That's how I started out. Custom recoveries is a recovery with a better UI and more features than stock. And it can also save you from bricking your tablet. They are easy to install (automated for you!) and just requires root.
Knox is an app/feature that's supposed to protect you from stuff. It's really useless and drains battery. As long you install apps from the play store and safe ones from the browser, there's no need for it. That's why custom roms don't have Knox. Google already has strengen security on kitkat and lollipop so there's no need for Knox.
As for custom roms they are developed for customization and better performance. Cm11 is a good one if you like skins and a better UI. Hope this helps!
BTW you get 8 hours of screen time if you leave it on constantly. Very great battery life!
Sent from SMT800 using Tapatalk.
-Helper around Tab S forums√
Active Everyday√

A Simple and Quick just get DLNA playing my net Videos
Emirena said:
Hi there! I'm an old-fashioned windows 7 pc user with NO smart phone or android experience. I've never had a touch screen device besides a nintendo DS! However, now that I'm thinking of taking vacations & loving watching more tv and media, I'm in the market for a portable media-consumption device that can cooperate with my existing media library on my windows 7 desktop and external HDD's.
...
Thank you!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just picked up my 11th Android tablet (Tab S 8.4) since 2008 so figured I'd try to play the NOOB and just start with getting it to Play from my Lan's Mediaserver as easily as possible... I've used multiple 'Favorite' Players and DLNA Client/Servers over the years but will just note the 2 I would suggest to anyone wanting to unbox and be watching a movie in first 30 min... ( I did cheat and use Odin to root in 10min. first but these apps don't require it!)...
I loaded ''MX Player Pro" (well worth a donation) from the Play store as my 'Strongly' suggested player of choice... and also installed the ' BubbleUPnP' DLNA client/server from the Play store... configuration of the DLNA client is very intuitive, and then choose something to Play and when it asked what player to use select 'MX Player' and click Always.... ten minutes start to finish and watching my movie!

Be aware that if you root your tab it will void the warranty. Samsung will know that you rooted it because there's a trip wire they can check. Knox isn't there to protect YOU, it's to protect THEM!

jtbnet said:
I just picked up my 11th Android tablet (Tab S 8.4) since 2008 so figured I'd try to play the NOOB and just start with getting it to Play from my Lan's Mediaserver as easily as possible... I've used multiple 'Favorite' Players and DLNA Client/Servers over the years but will just note the 2 I would suggest to anyone wanting to unbox and be watching a movie in first 30 min... ( I did cheat and use Odin to root in 10min. first but these apps don't require it!)...
I loaded ''MX Player Pro" (well worth a donation) from the Play store as my 'Strongly' suggested player of choice... and also installed the ' BubbleUPnP' DLNA client/server from the Play store... configuration of the DLNA client is very intuitive, and then choose something to Play and when it asked what player to use select 'MX Player' and click Always.... ten minutes start to finish and watching my movie!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
this is super helpful, thank you a million!
BubbleUPnP, huh? I just looked at the link about the server app - does this handle all local media hosting/directory sharing? I don't have a "server" per se, just my personal computer with win 7, which supports DLNA through OS, right? I assume this eliminates the need for windows fileshares that android doesn't support, anyway.
It mentions foobar 2000 - have you used bubbleupnp in conjunction with foobar? Is it required? I use winamp to play my music on windows, due to the more minimal UI, but would be interested in sharing my music dir to my tablet as well. The reduced bandwidth bulletpoint is below the foobar heading, sounds useful! If you have any tips or shortcuts, feel free to shrea. :highfive:

Review of Shield Android TV after 2 days...

After two days with an Nvidia Shield Android TV , there are many pluses and minuses, but over all, it has BY FAR the best hardware of any android based box on the market... no question at all about that, and here are what I think are the biggest pluses and minuses.
PLUSES
- amazing smoothness in interface - no jerky, delays etc at all
- superb playback of all media, smoother than any box I have seen
- 192khz 24 bit audio output (kodi and mxplayer but I am not sure if they are able to output at that HD rate)
- very well built, sexy touch activated standby button
- very easy to get up and running with controller etc
- shield game streaming service is flawless, fast, smooth, HD
- gaming controller is high quality, has a microphone for voice input and a headphone socket, which work well.
- Voice search within Play Music for artist or track works very well, extremely fast.
- playing Flash-based websites like TennisTV.com etc on Dolphin in Desktop mode is way better than any other box I have tried (and I have tried MANY)
MINUSES
- have to sideload many apps you may want, like TED, BBC iPlayer, IMDB, Spotify, Movie Mate etc.. even Chrome Browser - but relatively easy to work around using APK Extractor to get APK's from your phone, and Chainfire's sideload launcher.
- no up front display of non-Android TV specific apps
- no recent apps
- no way to get to "now playing" with some apps like Spotify if you had returned home, unless its a leanback app
- no notifications
- no mouse on desktop, backpace key on keyboard not working as backspace but as left mouse click
- Keyboard is USA only, so UK users have to know, for example, that " and @ have swopped places
- voice search from the home screen does not find music artists on google play music or spotify, but only youtube... so "play van morrison" will play a track from youtube, and not from the 25 van morrison albums I have already uploaded to Play Music.
- my tv keeps on cropping a lot off the screen, there is no way to adjust the screen crop size, to reduce size so it fits better on my screen... I can adjust my screen but that is a hassle.
- very little customisation, settings limited too.
There is at least one NON-Android TV ROM for this device, so you can fix almost all of those Minuses, and you can run it using Squarehome or NovaLauncher or whatever you like, but I am not sure I actually NEED to customise the box. Personally I use it for Kodi, Spotify, Play Music, TuneIn Radio, Youtube, Movie Mate, all of which works fine... so for the moment, I am not rooting the box, and am adjusting my expectations and enjoying what works fantastically well, pretty much everything.
This is FAR and away the best box I have ever had, goodbye Tronsmart Drako, Minix Neo X8H+ etc, this is WAY beyond. At some point I may change to plain android, but so far I am fine with a couple of extra steps to be able to enjoy the voice input and superb power and playback capabilities.
Mark.

Hi. I'm located in Ireland and looking for android TV box for my FHD projector. I'm considering MINIX Neo X8H+ or Nvidia Shield TV box (not yet available). What advantages of one over the other would you point? Thanks!
The Answer to The Ultimate Question of Life, the Universe, and Everything is: CLEAN FLASH.

Natakranta said:
Hi. I'm located in Ireland and looking for android TV box for my FHD projector. I'm considering MINIX Neo X8H+ or Nvidia Shield TV box (not yet available). What advantages of one over the other would you point? Thanks!
The Answer to The Ultimate Question of Life, the Universe, and Everything is: CLEAN FLASH.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Minix Neo offers access to almost all the play store apps without needing to sideload, with the Shield you need to sideload some apps, which isnt hard. The Shield has far better hardware, so you will get smoother HD playback, no question. If playing video is your main think, then the Shield's faster graphics, faster processor is the way to go. They are both good boxes, but my Minix Neo x8hplus is currently UNPLUGGED!

fredphoesh said:
Minix Neo offers access to almost all the play store apps without needing to sideload, with the Shield you need to sideload some apps, which isnt hard. The Shield has far better hardware, so you will get smoother HD playback, no question. If playing video is your main think, then the Shield's faster graphics, faster processor is the way to go. They are both good boxes, but my Minix Neo x8hplus is currently UNPLUGGED!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'd like to connect external 2GB HDD USB 3 to the box. Make it media storage to play on the connected to the box projector and available for all devices in home through my local WiFi.
How could I remotely control the box to manage utorrent on it from my phone, at home thorough local WiFi or externally when I'm away. Possible?
The Answer to The Ultimate Question of Life, the Universe, and Everything is: CLEAN FLASH.

Natakranta said:
I'd like to connect external 2GB HDD USB 3 to the box. Make it media storage to play on the connected to the box projector and available for all devices in home through my local WiFi.
How could I remotely control the box to manage utorrent on it from my phone, at home thorough local WiFi or externally when I'm away. Possible?
The Answer to The Ultimate Question of Life, the Universe, and Everything is: CLEAN FLASH.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi, sorry, no idea, I use it for streaming...
Sent from my SM-N910F using Tapatalk

fredphoesh said:
MINUSES
- no up front display of non-Android TV specific apps
- no recent apps
- no way to get to "now playing" with some apps like Spotify if you had returned home, unless its a leanback app
- very little customisation, settings limited too.
Mark.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi Mark! For your minuses mentioned above, you might want to consider HALauncher found in the Play Store. I'm using this on my Nvidia Shield Console/TV and it looks and works better than the default Android TV "Home" launcher. This apps allows you to create your own Home screen with rows of your customized apps. For example, I have a row for my Emulators, Racing Games, Space Shooters, Sports Games, TV apps, etc. You can arrange these rows and apps anyway you want. You can also use your own background image. You can also rename the apps to your liking and edit the icons for higher quality 320x180 images. Everything looks great now. This is what Android TV home launcher should be like. The only thing that is missing now is a button for rebooting the system, and another one for shutting it down!
Check out the images below to see what HALauncher can do:
http://postimg.org/image/kuncrk5tf/
http://postimg.org/image/57w3e6s1f/
http://postimg.org/image/fkie09lkj
http://postimg.org/image/mjwfzmlir/
-- Manny

funtasticguy said:
Hi Mark! For your minuses mentioned above, you might want to consider HALauncher found in the Play Store. I'm using this on my Nvidia Shield Console/TV and it looks and works better than the default Android TV "Home" launcher. This apps allows you to create your own Home screen with rows of your customized apps. For example, I have a row for my Emulators, Racing Games, Space Shooters, Sports Games, TV apps, etc. You can arrange these rows and apps anyway you want. You can also use your own background image. You can also rename the apps to your liking and edit the icons for higher quality 320x180 images. Everything looks great now. This is what Android TV home launcher should be like. The only thing that is missing now is a button for rebooting the system, and another one for shutting it down!
Check out the images below to see what HALauncher can do:
http://postimg.org/image/kuncrk5tf/
http://postimg.org/image/57w3e6s1f/
http://postimg.org/image/fkie09lkj
http://postimg.org/image/mjwfzmlir/
-- Manny
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi Manny,
Yep, I've been using it for a few days and like it a lot.
My gripes are that the voice search doesn't work properly and always shows empty results, and there is no "now playing" function... and the lack of a power button. For some reason ALT-Tab doesn't show recent apps. Oh, there is no ALL APPS function either, so new apps are invisible till you edit the home screen. But yeah, the best home screen for the SATV for sure.
Cheers,
Mark
Sent from my SM-N910F using Tapatalk

I agree with pretty much everything you said, I've had mine for two weeks and I love it. I have Kodi running to play local media, plex to stream stuff from friends servers, Netflix (which really upped their game since the last time I subscribed a year or two ago), along with tons of games. This will only get better over time, its still a relatively new product. I'm still debating on whether or not to root it, I think I'm going to but will be keeping the stock launcher because I like it, despite the lack of "recent apps" which I still don't understand why they didn't include it. The only reason I want to root it is so that I can install the Xinstaller module from Xposed so all my apps will install to my sdcard and not the internal memory.
Sent from my Nexus 6 using Tapatalk

I have had mine a few weeks and it is definitely a really nice device and it is crazy fast!
Really the only gripe I have is 4K support but that isn't Nvidia's fault. Basically because I am running through a processor (more or less an AVR without an amp) and HDMI 2.0 standard is not used on them, Netflix won't show 4K content on the device unless I am directly connected to the TV.
Fortunately Ultraflix works at 4K and everything else does as well.

brando56894 said:
I agree with pretty much everything you said, I've had mine for two weeks and I love it. I have Kodi running to play local media, plex to stream stuff from friends servers, Netflix (which really upped their game since the last time I subscribed a year or two ago), along with tons of games. This will only get better over time, its still a relatively new product. I'm still debating on whether or not to root it, I think I'm going to but will be keeping the stock launcher because I like it, despite the lack of "recent apps" which I still don't understand why they didn't include it. The only reason I want to root it is so that I can install the Xinstaller module from Xposed so all my apps will install to my sdcard and not the internal memory.
Sent from my Nexus 6 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Try HALauncher, it is good enough for me to not install a custom rom and root... So far! Also once you root you'll have to manually install rom updates and reinstall apps etc... Also you can move most apps to sd card. DON'T set to Automatically Move apps to SD card, that doesn't work. Install to system then move them to SD card in app settings after player no the game once.
Sent from my SM-N910F using Tapatalk

Had mine for about a week and like it an awful lot.
As someone who bought an Ouya, I must say focusing on the media services first THEN worrying about gaming made this a MUCH BETTER product.
I am a bit disappointed I can't have my HBO Go on it, there's currently no Amazon Video and the Netflix app needs better voice options, but I'm really digging the Gamestream from my PC upstairs to the downstairs TV, It works most of the time without a hitch. The only time it doesn't is when I'm playing my Steam games and the Ubisoft games try to go through Uplay and Uplay crashes or its a game I've never ran before and Steam itself crashes because it doesn't seem to like running a game in Big Picture mode if it has never been opened and ran at least once on my PC in normal Steam mode first, and those are client problems, not Nvidia issues so can't fault them there.
Yes, having to install some of my apps from the PC through the Play Store is a bit of a pain, but it also keeps the kids from loading it up with a bunch of useless crap, so I'd say its a fair trade.

tobalaz said:
Had mine for about a week and like it an awful lot.
As someone who bought an Ouya, I must say focusing on the media services first THEN worrying about gaming made this a MUCH BETTER product.
I am a bit disappointed I can't have my HBO Go on it, there's currently no Amazon Video and the Netflix app needs better voice options, but I'm really digging the Gamestream from my PC upstairs to the downstairs TV, It works most of the time without a hitch. The only time it doesn't is when I'm playing my Steam games and the Ubisoft games try to go through Uplay and Uplay crashes or its a game I've never ran before and Steam itself crashes because it doesn't seem to like running a game in Big Picture mode if it has never been opened and ran at least once on my PC in normal Steam mode first, and those are client problems, not Nvidia issues so can't fault them there.
Yes, having to install some of my apps from the PC through the Play Store is a bit of a pain, but it also keeps the kids from loading it up with a bunch of useless crap, so I'd say its a fair trade.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh yes, speaking of Gamestream, what does everyone think of the quality?
I tried it both before and after the update that was supposed to improve the quality and have not been that impressed. The bitrate seems somewhat low and I get random stutter and both the PC and Shield are wired gigabit.

Well as far as Gamestream goes for me, I've got my win7 gaming rig w/ an i5, 12gb ram and gtx 750ti hardwired to my Buffalo AC1750 and the Shield on 5g to a 42" 1080p TV and I've no problems with it, everything runs smoothly, well, smoothly when Uplay isn't f*cking everything up...
I had issues initially so I had to go into my router and change the settings for my 5ghz channel.

OK interesting, maybe it is is an issue with SLI since I am running 3 Titan Xs, i7, 32GB RAM, etc through an Asus RT-AC3200. I will try disabling SLI and see if that helps.

mutelight said:
OK interesting, maybe it is is an issue with SLI since I am running 3 Titan Xs, i7, 32GB RAM, etc through an Asus RT-AC3200. I will try disabling SLI and see if that helps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You've really peaked my interest here, was the SLI making it not work correctly? Like maybe the video encoding being slit amongst the cards wasn't working too well?
I'm about to upgrade my 750ti so it'd be nice to know if it was SLI or just isn't playing nice with your Titan.

tobalaz said:
You've really peaked my interest here, was the SLI making it not work correctly? Like maybe the video encoding being slit amongst the cards wasn't working too well?
I'm about to upgrade my 750ti so it'd be nice to know if it was SLI or just isn't playing nice with your Titan.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It is honestly hard to say, I still need to try disabling SLI to see if it helps. Also I should mention I have been running Windows 10 for a couple months now there have been a few driver updates for it since I tried it last.

Video calling only available for the Shield ATV
One unique feature on the Shield ATV is the camera support.
Just plug a camera and it works! I've been checking out other Android SmartTV's and set-top-boxes, but yet couldn't find any other device having this support.
And, there is already a video calling android tv app on google play called "Tellybean - Easy video calling". It works perfectly on the Shield ATV.

furkna said:
One unique feature on the Shield ATV is the camera support.
Just plug a camera and it works! I've been checking out other Android SmartTV's and set-top-boxes, but yet couldn't find any other device having this support.
And, there is already a video calling android tv app on google play called "Tellybean - Easy video calling". It works perfectly on the Shield ATV.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nice, but surely Hangouts works just fine, and even Skype?

fredphoesh said:
Nice, but surely Hangouts works just fine, and even Skype?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Your right. Since shield has camera support basically any video calling app might work. But I don't believe they work as smooth as Tellybean. Skype and hangout does not have Android TV apps (not gonna have one any time soon). They don't exist on google play for Android TV. You need to sideload their default android app.
Also, their UX is fine for a mobile app but not so much for a TV app. They don't really fit into the leanback UI. Not so usable if you are sitting on the couch and just want to have a video call. I use hangouts and skype on my smartphone and laptop but Tellybean on my TV
Tellybean is an Android TV app, shows up on Leanback launcher and it works smoothly on the shield ATV.

tobalaz said:
Well as far as Gamestream goes for me, I've got my win7 gaming rig w/ an i5, 12gb ram and gtx 750ti hardwired to my Buffalo AC1750 and the Shield on 5g to a 42" 1080p TV and I've no problems with it, everything runs smoothly, well, smoothly when Uplay isn't f*cking everything up...
I had issues initially so I had to go into my router and change the settings for my 5ghz channel.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hello! From Italy here! 10 days I have a 16Gb unit I struggle with Ethernet AND wifi 5Gb connection! Wifi N working about fine. Netgear R7000 and Fastweb FTTS connection 85MBps! I only get 10 MBps at most, and this is the only device that gets this low! Need to solve this or ask for replacement the soonest! Any help much appreciated.
Regards
Alessandro

[ROM] ROMs Comparison

The threads on custom ROMS are generating lots of posts.
Some questions are asked multiple times, some are never answered (because lost in the flow)... making it hard to take a clear decision about with custom ROM to flash, if any at all.
Thus, I'd like to use this thread to discuss about the "pros and cons" of each method, or rather the "possibilities and limitations" of them.
For the moment, this would include the three following ROM:
- The stock ROM (the one you get which your fresh Shield TV)
- The StockRestyle 3.0 ROM, provided by @zulu99, see the thread here
- The Full Android Marshmallow ROM, provided by @zulu99, see the thread here
The goal is not to encourage you to go in one or the other directions, but to provide objective arguments. This is why I wrote "possibilities and limitations" are preferred to "pros and cons"
Please comment in this thread, and I'll update the following posts regularly.

1) The stock ROM
Link to Nvidia Open Source Resources and Drivers here
No operation required, this is the standard ROM already installed on the Shield TV -> Just Plug and Play!
Shield TV game controller and remote fully working wireless (Wifi-Direct), including Voice search, and headset plug.
Can play Nvidia specialized games - Doom 3/Metal Gear Solid/Android based or Geforce Now streamed.
Play store limited to Leanback-compatible apps (Shield TV runs Android TV)
- Thus, the number of compatible apps is limited (also due to the absence of touchscreen, obviously)
- Some apps cannot be installed at all, or cannot be run properly
Standard applications (not available as Leanback-compatible apps, e.g. web-browser...) can/need be sideloaded
- By defalt, sideloaded apps don't appear in the standard Home menu
- Sideloaded apps can be started using Sideload Launcher or Apk2tv
Standard applications can also be installed directly from Play store using Market Helper. NOTE: this requires root access.
Keyboard and Trackpad devices do not produce too much efficiency due to rom limitations
Unability to use a remote desktop
Apps related
No web brower installed, but Chrome (or others) can be sideloaded.
Skype for Leanback isn't working: calling buttons cannot be selected, no video call button.
Kodi can be installed. It allows you to stream content directly to your TV
To be checked:
Amazon fire TV 4K remote and game controlled can be paired using the Shield Accessories tool. (Works on the StockRestyle)

2) The StockRestyle 3.0 ROM
Link to the thread here
Requires to flash the ROM. The process is rather simple, but as always to avoid risks you should know what you are doing. Reading carefully the main post of the thread related to this ROM, and at least the last comments and those from zulu99 is recommended.
Full Play store available (access to more games. Yet, touchscreen-only games cannot be played with a game controller)
Aptoide TV filters apps that are compatible with Android TV. For example, for Skype, the standard Aptoide app provides the last version of Skype (6.26 for the moment, which is not working on this ROM), while Aptoide TV provides the version 6.15.
Shield TV game controller globally working
- Some issues reported with the new version of the game controller: Home and Back buttons not working well.
- Voice search button first starts Google search, a second press (not a double press) starts Voice search
The Nova interface is designed for touch and/or mouse and/or keyboard actions
- Most of the interface can be used using a remote or a game controller
- But, the configuration often requires a mouse (or at least, is faster to use with a mouse)
- A wireless all-in-one keyboard is a good device to use with, e.g. Logitech K400 Plus (others are good too, but this one is battery-friendly)
Web browser usable in full desktop mode, e.g. Chrome (without ads if you download adaway, root required)
Multitasking may look limited. Yet, you can use Alt-Tab on the keyboard to switch between apps
No Android Navigation (softkeys) or Status Bar (e.g. You do not get to see notifications/download progress/etc)
Amazon fire TV 4K remote and game controlled can be paired using the Shield Accessories tool. They won't appear in the list of connected devices, but they are working well, including microphone.
It may feel like a bit of a strange mix, not really remote-friendly, but not really full Android capable either. However, this is the only know solution to keep the proprietary tools from NVidia working while having a standard Android interface.
Apps related
Skype 6.14 and 6.15.x are fully working, i.e. audio and video calls, using UVC webcams (tried with Logitech C920 and C930)
Some easy fixes
Settings App: First step after install - Go to Widgets> Nova Activity and selecting Settings app so that is shows up on desktop
Remote/Controller Friendly Navigation in the App-Drawer: Nova-launcher setting for App-Drawer needs to changed from Vertical to Horizontal
Foreign external keyboard can be remapped using one of the many apps available
- External Keyboard Helper Pro is working well in my case: Android interface in English (US), external keyboards in German (QWERTZ, Logitech K400 Plus and Logitech K830). You can try the demo version for free. PS: I'm not linked in anyway to the developers of this app.

3) The Full Android Marshmallow ROM
Link to the thread here
Requires to flash the ROM. The process is rather simple, but as always to avoid risks you should know what you are doing. Reading carefully the main post of the thread related to this ROM, and at least the last comments and those from zulu99 is recommended.
Smooth, fast, responsive ROM
Full Play store available, more standard applications should be compatible
Leanback only applications can also be launched using an tweak tool: QuickShortcutMaker (see video here)
Shield TV game controllers not working wireless (using Wifi-Direct) but working as normal a standard gamepad when connected via USB
Shield TV remote control working (using Bluetooth), including audio. [Confirmed here]
Long-term update is questionable because it depends only on the person who is providing this ROM (even though this person is very active)
To be checked or confirmed by several users
Some slower performance (frame rates) in games from stock-restyle (feedback based on Rom ver. 1.0, not sure about 1.1) [Mentioned here]
- This could indeed be a counterpart of all what is running in the background of full Android (see here). In others words, full Android is more general in the sense it offers more possibilities, but at the same time it cannot be expert in all those aspects. Thus Android purist would prefer to go for this ROM while Nvidia gamers may prefer to stay on the Stock or StockRestyle ROMs. In the end, YOU make the final choice.
Shield TV remote control working (using Bluetooth), including audio.
- Working: here
- Not working well: here

You could possibly add another or include as an option to #1.
Stock Rooted with Market Helper (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2146216) device spoofer or the other hack.
Options are good.

IamSonoma said:
You could possibly add another or include as an option to #1.
Stock Rooted with Market Helper (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2146216) device spoofer or the other hack.
Options are good.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It is quiet in here. I was interested in seeing some responses. Maybe an anonymous poll.
If I had more time, less family, less places to fish I would run 3 boxes and compare them all. I would always need to have one that is stock and family friendly for the wife and the kids.
When i bought mine a month ago I was hoping there was more community support but it may take more time to catch on. Luckily Zulu gives us two options to toy with. They work pretty good. Statistically speaking and I could be wrong, About 90% of the people making a purchase like this just want to plug and play and have no desire to tweak or tinker. I know this because out of the 6 in my family I am the only one that even thinks "can I root it?" when I am researching it. The rest of my family just want to plug and play. They want simple.
As for me I want it to over-clock, play games without CDs (Wii<family loved this but I have a tone of unwrapped games> and xBox with external HDDs), aging my self here play a game using two 5 1/4" floppy drives with all files working on 2 disks instead of 6 disks(AD&D SSI games), running android on my tilt 2 slide out keyboard sell phone, I could go on.
I really hope development picks up. I only wish I could help more. I do encourage Zulu and others to continue.

IamSonoma said:
It is quiet in here. I was interested in seeing some responses. Maybe an anonymous poll.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was also hoping for more feedback.
Indeed, the last few weeks I was struggling to find the best ROM that would suit my need. After reading the 200+ pages of post in the thread of the ROM proposed by @zulu99, I had hard time to extract the right information.
Thus, the idea of this post: I want to present objective points of comparison, I have no apps to sell.
The point is also to avoid the post like "Which ROM should I pick?". If the advantages and limitations are clearly listed, everyone should be able to make his/her own decision, all ROMs are good, it only depends on what you want to do with it.
PS: In my case, I wanted to 1) keep the Nvidia Shield TV game controllers (and my Fire TV 4K remote and game controllers), and 2) to have Skype working. Thus, my final choice for the StockRestyle ROM.

Mythamp's Review of the Roms
Stock Rom
Pros:
1. Ideal for basic 4K TV owners who want to stream all current channels of 4K content
2. Can play Nvidia specialized games - Doom 3/Metal Gear Solid/Android based or Geforce Now streamed
3. Remote and Controller work great
4. Kodi allows you to stream content directly to your TV
Cons:
1. Small selection of Android TV Apps
2. Browsers and Non-Android TV apps need to be side-loaded
3. Cannot install most Non-Android TV apps
4. Keyboard and Trackpad devices do not produce too much efficiency due to rom limitations
5. Unable to remote desktop into the device incase you wish to send remote instructions to download content so that you can come home and enjoy.
Overall:
The Stock Rom is unable to take advantage of Android. It is a cumbersome process for people who like quick responses. I would say it is as limited as any other 4k TV's with Android built-in apart from a few Nvidia games. Trust me, this does not justify the $150 investment.
Stock-Restyle Rom
Pros:
1. All of the pros of Stock Rom including full controller and remote support plus
2. Install unlimited Android Apps taking full advantage of the Google Play Store
For Example:
• Use "Airdroid" app (root required) to remote mirror your device from work and have all the content ready when you get home.
• Play thousands of Android games on your 4k TV
• Use Chrome in full desktop mode (root required) without ads (download adaway) - almost as good as a desktop Chrome. Great for quick browsing.
3. Less cumbersome to move around by using a Keyboard with Trackpad (I personally use the "Logitech K400 Plus")
Cons:
1. Multitasking may look limited - yet you can use Alt-Tab on the keyboard to switch between apps
2. Many Android apps (mostly games) require touch, which can be done using android mobile device with Droidmote installed. Some games can be played using the Keyboard/Trackpad combo but its a hit & miss.
3. No Android Navigation (softkeys) or Status Bar (Eg. You do not get to see notifications/download progress/etc)
4. It is technically not a Full/Clean Android as it has Nvidia's framework still builtin
5. Some easy fixes FYI
• Settings App: First step after install - Go to Widgets> Nova Activity and selecting Settings app so that is shows up on desktop
• Remote/Controller Friendly Navigation: Nova-launcher setting for App-Drawer needs to changed from Vertical to Horizontal
Overall:
The Stock-Restyle Rom is in my opinion the best rom for the Nvidia Shield TV. It opens the device to all the Android & Google Play Store goodie-ness, while allowing you to use the fantastic shield controller and remote to play/stream all nvidia and some android games. I have also personally found that android games run smoother on this rom than on the Full Android Rom (Maybe its because the rom is based on the nvidia framework, I could be wrong.)
Bottomline - install this rom before trying the rest.
Full Android Marshmallow Rom
Pros:
1. Amazingly smooth, fast, responsive rom
2. You get the full Android experience
3. Includes all the pros of the above Roms
Cons:
1. No support for Nvidia controller wirelessly, you can use it by plugging in the cable and installing keyboard drivers
2. Noticed some slower performance (framerates) in games from stock-restyle (feedback based on Rom ver. 1.0, not sure about 1.1)
Overall:
The Full Android Marshmallow Rom is a great solution for Android purists. You will miss-out on the seamless (wireless) experience of playing all the Nvidia/Android Games. If someone can get the wireless controllers to work here, I will be the first one to shift over from stock-restyle rom.
- This is just my opinion on the roms based on my usage, I am sure many users have their unique needs which might not match my feedback, so please take all this with an open mind -

mythamp said:
2. Noticed some slower performance (framerates) in games from stock-restyle (feedback based on Rom ver. 1.0, not sure about 1.1)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Stock, StockRestyle and full Android, on the gaming part, more precisly on Accelerated 3D Graphics, have the exact same components. Are Identical.
I extract this part from stock firmware and are Nvidia proprietary blob. ( every developer can compare the files )
Every Nvidia exclusive games are working on all 3 firmwares in the same way.
But in full Android you can have also more normal games compatible in addition to all Nvidia exclusive games.
Also for Audio and hardware video decode the 3 firmwares have the same components.
There is only one, very important difference between the 3 firmwares. Only full Android have the full Android framework, permissions and components and in the real life you can translate this as more compatibility with millions apps in Google Play. For the present and for the future.
just to be precise.
P.S.
But attention, don't forget that if you run Windows XP on a modern PC, for sure is faster than Windows 10. Why ? Because Windows 10 have more things.
I think that Android TV is not comparable with full Android for the simple reason that Android TV is a stripped down version of full Android.
But if you don't need everything that Android can offer, you can use also Android TV.
Another fact, very simple, is:
If you want everything that Android can offer on TV, a controller or a remote with only directional keys are not sufficient. And if you prefer only directional keys, you will have barriers, limitations and slow interaction forever. Instead if you use a better input device you can have also a full OS on TV that for me is better, because i can do things of both worlds.
It all depends on what you use and what you know, the most important fact is that you can choose.

Great thread, I'm just trying to decide which to install on my Shield when amazon delivers it.
I'm really thinking of using Full Android but have bought the nvidia remote control too (mainly for the audio jack). So..
Is the Shield remote working or not on Full Android (is it bluetooth or works like the controller?). Can anyone point it out, please? Thank you!

grievous2004 said:
Great thread, I'm just trying to decide which to install on my Shield when amazon delivers it.
I'm really thinking of using Full Android but have bought the nvidia remote control too (mainly for the audio jack). So..
Is the Shield remote working or not on Full Android (is it bluetooth or works like the controller?). Can anyone point it out, please? Thank you!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
it work, also audio.

*1
zulu99 said:
Stock, StockRestyle and full Android, on the gaming part, more precisly on Accelerated 3D Graphics, have the exact same components. Are Identical.
I extract this part from stock firmware and are Nvidia proprietary blob. ( every developer can compare the files )
Every Nvidia exclusive games are working on all 3 firmwares in the same way.
But in full Android you can have also more normal games compatible in addition to all Nvidia exclusive games.
Also for Audio and hardware video decode the 3 firmwares have the same components.
There is only one, very important difference between the 3 firmwares. Only full Android have the full Android framework, permissions and components and in the real life you can translate this as more compatibility with millions apps in Google Play. For the present and for the future.
just to be precise.
P.S.
But attention, don't forget that if you run Windows XP on a modern PC, for sure is faster than Windows 10. Why ? Because Windows 10 have more things.
I think that Android TV is not comparable with full Android for the simple reason that Android TV is a stripped down version of full Android.
But if you don't need everything that Android can offer, you can use also Android TV.
Another fact, very simple, is:
If you want everything that Android can offer on TV, a controller or a remote with only directional keys are not sufficient. And if you prefer only directional keys, you will have barriers, limitations and slow interaction forever. Instead if you use a better input device you can have also a full OS on TV that for me is better, because i can do things of both worlds.
It all depends on what you use and what you know, the most important fact is that you can choose.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

All the remarks have been considered in the comparison threads.
One question about the remote on full Android answered.

JulienPr said:
All the remarks have been considered in the comparison threads.
One question about the remote on full Android answered.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The remote works for me sometimes but I usually end up ditching it because it is a pain. Sometimes I can pause a show and walk away. Sometimes it does not. I am not sure if it is loosing sync or not.
Voice does not work. Volume control is iffy. It does pause videos with the volume slider on occasion. When I hit the home button it will sometimes go there. It has become useless to me. I am glad it was free.
My issues probably do not reflect the ROM(full android) but I remember it working when ever I picked it up on stock android. I am just not ready to go back.

IamSonoma said:
The remote works for me sometimes but I usually end up ditching it because it is a pain. Sometimes I can pause a show and walk away. Sometimes it does not. I am not sure if it is loosing sync or not.
Voice does not work. Volume control is iffy. It does pause videos with the volume slider on occasion. When I hit the home button it will sometimes go there. It has become useless to me. I am glad it was free.
My issues probably do not reflect the ROM(full android) but I remember it working when ever I picked it up on stock android. I am just not ready to go back.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Maybe again an issue with the version of the remote or game controller.
I noticed that on the StockRestyle, the old version of the game controller was working perfect while the new version had issues with the Home, Back and Search buttons (both using the same firmware update).
Might it be the same with the remote? Is there an old version (with Home button represented by a house).
See the difference for the game controllers:
Version 1, this model is still the one you get when bought separately.
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
Version 2, this model is the one included now with the shield.

JulienPr said:
Maybe again an issue with the version of the remote or game controller.
I noticed that on the StockRestyle, the old version of the game controller was working perfect while the new version had issues with the Home, Back and Search buttons (both using the same firmware update).
Might it be the same with the remote? Is there an old version (with Home button represented by a house).
See the difference for the game controllers:
Version 1, this model is still the one you get when bought separately.
Version 2, this model is the one included now with the shield.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have version 2.

IamSonoma said:
I have version 2.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't know if there was a "version 1" of the remote, I cannot find any trace of it.
But, since they change the design of the Home button to be a circle only on the V2 of the game controller, and that it's the same as the V2 of the remote, it wouldn't be surprising if there was a V1 of the remote with similar symbol as the V1 of the game controller.
@zulu99, which remote do you have?

Love this thread guys as I've been considering another ROM but didn't know the clear pros and cons of Full Android and now this ReStyle one which I'm very interested in. I have a few questions for anyone. Perhaps the answers could gain momentum for many others as you guys are absolutely right that AndroidTV's app selection isn't just lacking, it feels like AndroidTV apps exist and the consumers want them, but the interface for getting them or allowing users to simply inform specific developers the demand to support it is insanely behind. On the desktop play store you can't even sort or filter Android TV apps other than seeing these two specific links unless an active user is seeking blogs or postings regarding them.
Apps for Android TV
Games for Android TV
Gotta vent a bit the already known... feel free to skip down...
On the stock play store, you can search for apps but not having even top charts or proper categories other than the useless 'featured' in addition to strong limitations is hurting as a whole. Some of the biggest brands out there have no or heavily limited apps for ATV, including even many tv channels like TNT or ESPN. I think Nvidia or Google for the time being should at least allow the detection of a mouse and keyboard to least show apps that 'might work' rather than none and give the user the option to control that. Hopefully Android N will improve things with the Picture in Picture and maybe even DVR abilities. Love this box but even though Android is a strength, it's also a weakness in the shade of a very sensitive cycle. More users --> More developers thus more apps --> More users --> More developers --> etc... I feel like the users are there, but while developers are increasingly aware, it should grow faster, and Google should help that awareness.
Anyways my questions were:
1) Does HDMI-CEC still work? Currently in stock it works in turning on the tv and with the tv on its Source Input, off with tv, and controlled by tv remote but not with volume (shield remote controlling tv volume).
2) Any loss of functionality with Casting? More specifically I usually cast from Youtube, Plex, Google Photos, and Mirror Casting from Nexus phone.
3) Any loss of 4K support, including Youtube, Plex, VLC, MXPlayer, or hopefully introduction of HDR support (doesn't work natively on Shield perhaps because of the HDMI 2.0a not yet being implemented). I'm interested in keeping Full dynamic range and ability to toggle 4K 60 and 4K 24fps along with Plex (with Refresh Rate Switching for native 24fps support in 60 mode). So I guess along with this can AndroidTV specific apps still be installed or will the phone/tablet versions be installed instead? Example: Plex.
4) Is Adoptable storage still supported? I'm guessing when flashing the StockRestyle ROM we'll have to wipe the adoptable sdcard and essentially factory reset.
5) Can AptoideTV work just fine on stock? I'm going to probably try it tomorrow
While I personally don't play any of the Nvidia games, I'm looking to have the Stock Stability + current emulator/rom support (rooting for Wiimote support) + specific apps that are not supported on AndroidTV without having to constantly manually update them through sideloading. Apps I'm interested in include Google Apps including Google Photos + Logitech Webcam supported (Skype + Hangouts + FB Messenger) and possibly Amazon Prime Video but ideally if it can support at least 1080p or 4K. I also use Kodi but am still learning to use it.
I'm very familiar with modding on my Nexus 6P (TWRP, root, Xposed, with monthly updates) so was wondering if there was anything different I should know other than the obvious loss of a screen when adding custom recovery and rooting along with Nandroid backups. Has any one successfully backed up their stock ROM and restored it later? Also anyone root stock, then backup everything on Titanium Backup (sideloaded) and restore apps + data on StockRestyle ROM?
My set up is 16GB Shield Stock 3.0 not rooted yet + Samsung 128GB Pro+ microsdxc + Stock Controller + Remote, it's connected to a Samsung 4K SUHD UN65JS8500. Also using bluetooth Logitech keyboard + mouse, xbox 360 receiver, x360 controllers. Still waiting for possible DVB-S2 integration and maybe live tv solutions like silicondust.

grievous2004 said:
Great thread, I'm just trying to decide which to install on my Shield when amazon delivers it.
I'm really thinking of using Full Android but have bought the nvidia remote control too (mainly for the audio jack). So..
Is the Shield remote working or not on Full Android (is it bluetooth or works like the controller?). Can anyone point it out, please? Thank you!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
-> the shield remote is ok on full android.
I use it to watch movies with headset plug in ...but only the microphone function don't work

copticwalad said:
2) Any loss of functionality with Casting? More specifically I usually cast from Youtube, Plex, Google Photos, and Mirror Casting from Nexus.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm curious about this too. I like the idea of the shield basically replacing my chromecast, but with Full Android it looks like you can't cast TO it, but you can cast IT'S display like any other phone or tablet. Is it possible in full android to cast another device TO the shield with full android?
Sent from my SM-G900T using XDA-Developers mobile app

ZIDOO H6 PRO Android 7.0 Allwinner H6 2/16GB AC WiFi Gig Lan BT4 L1 Widevine

Today something new and little different
ZIDOO H6 PRO Android 7.0 Allwinner H6 2/16GB AC WiFi Gig Lan BT4
Has been a long while since we have had a Allwinner device.
So lets not beat around the bush and get into.
In typical fashion Zidoo packing and presentation excellent.
The Box
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
Look in the box
More Boxes
Finally what's in the Boxes
White Affair by the looks
Back
Side
Other Side
Front and Underside
Under side PCB
Topside PCB
Thanks to Zidoo for the Opportunity to show and tell
Hope you enjoyed the look around of the ZUI interface
4 core CPU, running Android 7.0 32 bit,
Not a power house beast, most should be Good, Videos should be ok
Interesting to see what allwinner of today is with what it has to offer,
Android 7 would should add more smarts hopefully.
Possible incompatible with some testing software unsure.
Antutu sound was not clean, very stuttery. both demos.
Vellamo, onscreen animations frozen thru some of the web-browsing demo's.
3d Benchmark some of the Animation screen did drop out.
All test shown are only a reference or a guide to performance on some sort of a level playing field.
How accurate these results maybe in real terms is always open to conjecture.
If it looks and feels fast, with general operation on how apps run, start up etc
and the scores indicate that in some way, then some justification is plausible.
Temperatures looking good, low 40,s idle to 70c under the pump, (3Dmark)
Blue tooth remote Excellent.
No display on front one would thought with the size of that window.
Small Blue or Red pin hole led next to window for power indication.
Found Both Wifi and ethernet speeds to be good at this location.
Internal Movie Player or Media Centre as its called also good.
Scanned SMB, NFS, playing the majority tested, more testing to be done.
Netflix OK not HD looking pretty good.
No Kodi or equivalent installed as yet
A good looking Media player with a flash looking UI and Interface not to bad at all.
Updated Today to L1 widevine support
Model：ZIDOO_H6 Pro
FW version：v1.0.10 BETA
Updated list:
1.Netflix suppots 1080P playback.
2.Youtube supports 2k、4k playback.
3.Solved the freezing issue on such bbc news、vimeo, etc applications.
4.Solved the issue that can not save when HDMI setting into 4k up to 60p.
5.Solved the issue that some screens display in 4:3 size when TV turn on.
6.Solved the wrong color issue when playback hdr video on kodi
7.Optimized the connection tips of bluetooth remote control
8.Fix the Launcher app open applications ui, the fast press the back button, the ui does not display
9.Optimized the freezing issue when playback turehd、atmos videos via smb network.
10.Solved no sound issue on some ac3 videos
11.support root(just need install suppersu).
12.Solved the issue of individual device that shows tips repeatly with cvbs plug in、cvbs plug out
Download url：
http://www.mediafire.com/file/cd50kx43cov7npx/ZIDOO_H6_Pro_20170930_v1.0.10_ota.zip
MD5: 924ae598ba65d2cb0740c89f271c405b
Update style：OTA
How to upgrade:
http://www.zidoo.tv/Support/guide/g...e_faq/CN6lY0XMyIg=/faq_page/9nCdOWqz+dw=.html

How does it works after a few months usage? I'm planning to buy one of these. Or something similar under 100$.
Sent from my NX569H using Tapatalk

It's one month i am using it and i have mixed opion of this box. Obviously it's a beautiful piece of hardware, but the firmware is limiting its potential. With a fine tuning it works well with kodi and all the common stuff you want to install on an android box. The embedded player works fantastic even if it misses the look and feel of Kodi while navigating the list of movies and other media.
I have choosen it because it's sayd Zidoo supports a lot its products. H6 pro was released, if i am not mistaken, in August 2017 and it received three firmwares so far. Anyway several problems still exist; nothing scary for an experienced user, nevertheless is not the kind of product to unbox, plug and play easily.

il_giank said:
It's one month i am using it and i have mixed opion of this box. Obviously it's a beautiful piece of hardware, but the firmware is limiting its potential. With a fine tuning it works well with kodi and all the common stuff you want to install on an android box. The embedded player works fantastic even if it misses the look and feel of Kodi while navigating the list of movies and other media.
I have choosen it because it's sayd Zidoo supports a lot its products. H6 pro was released, if i am not mistaken, in August 2017 and it received three firmwares so far. Anyway several problems still exist; nothing scary for an experienced user, nevertheless is not the kind of product to unbox, plug and play easily.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Meanwhile I have bought xiaomi mi box 4k. It's very limited on software side but it's doing the job.
Thank you for the review!

Interesting! What do you mean with limited?
thanks in advance

il_giank said:
Interesting! What do you mean with limited?
thanks in advance
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not customizable android, No Ethernet port, when playing 4k video is lagging. But, as I sad, is doing the job. I recommend it only for non exigent user.

o-I-c said:
Download url：
http://www.mediafire.com/file/cd50kx43cov7npx/ZIDOO_H6_Pro_20170930_v1.0.10_ota.zip
MD5: 924ae598ba65d2cb0740c89f271c405b
Update style：OTA
How to upgrade:
http://www.zidoo.tv/Support/guide/g...e_faq/CN6lY0XMyIg=/faq_page/9nCdOWqz+dw=.html
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is a new release:
http://forum.zidoo.tv/index.php?threads/firmware-v1-0-20-for-zidoo-h6pro.7202/

Does it have release-keys or unofficial firmware with test-keys?
I'm wondering because some streaming apps test on it...
Thanks!

Just avoid this box until the Zidoo devs provide a stable working Firmware!
I recently bought it and 4 firmwares are out since its launch and every time its breaking something and fixing something.
No Pre-installed ZDMC (Ziddo's Kodi fork) and they ask you to sideload it.
All the FW updates have problems with Kodi 17.x, no hardware acceleration, low framerate, high cpu even on 1080p, x265 doent play anymore on Kodi on most recent FW Update!
Playstore search doesnt work,
NO OTA updates they boast about. Everytime I have to flash it with USB.
These are the pure basic functionality and if Zidoo can't even provide a stable tested fw addressing these there is no point to buy it. Zidoo is more busy in launching newer devices and supporting their higher end models and not giving proper attention on this one. Not complaining about hardware build , its good.
Visit the Zidoo forums and you will find many users with these issues and lot other issues.
Avoid it!

sunny155 said:
no hardware acceleration,
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hello.
How did you manage to make sure of this? I'm using VLC and MX player, with hardware acceleration enabled and it's working. The CPU temps and usage also dropped a lot but despite this, I also suspect that there is enough to improve... I'm on fw 1.0.28 http://forum.zidoo.tv/index.php?threads/firmware-v1-0-28-for-zidoo-h6pro.8671/

hpto said:
Hello.
How did you manage to make sure of this? I'm using VLC and MX player, with hardware acceleration enabled and it's working. The CPU temps and usage also dropped a lot but despite this, I also suspect that there is enough to improve... I'm on fw 1.0.28 http://forum.zidoo.tv/index.php?threads/firmware-v1-0-28-for-zidoo-h6pro.8671/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I played a video on Kodi 17 . Also, HEVC playback is broken on latest firmware 1.0.28 on Kodi
I didnt tried any VLC or MX player.

sunny155 said:
I played a video on Kodi 17 . Also, HEVC playback is broken on latest firmware 1.0.28 on Kodi
I didnt tried any VLC or MX player.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Kodi is all stormed on Zidoo. Forget it.
Try these apps I told, it's working. I just do not understand how VLC and MX are working with hardware acceleration without the GPU being properly installed.
I run GFX bench and I confirm GPU is not working, it's a shame.
Every chinese box has serious software problems. While there is no model here in XDA or with custom ROMs, it will be this suffering...

hpto said:
Kodi is all stormed on Zidoo. Forget it.
Try these apps I told, it's working. I just do not understand how VLC and MX are working with hardware acceleration without the GPU being properly installed.
I run GFX bench and I confirm GPU is not working, it's a shame.
Every chinese box has serious software problems. While there is no model here in XDA or with custom ROMs, it will be this suffering...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Zidoo has own fork of Kodi called as ZDMC. I am using Zidoo x5 with ZDMC for almost 3 years + but it has limited ram and a slow Wifi so I thought to upgrade and bought this H6 Pro which has better specs and was under my budget.
What I didnt knew it doesn't come with ZDMC and Kodi sideload doesnt work properly! My bad I didnt checked the forums before buying!
The hardware is good but like you said **** software support and they cant even fix it (less efforts or funding?) and instead they keep launching newer box with more powerful hardware! This is how Zidoo screw us! They do release updates but what's the point of buying something you can't use bug free immediately! Instead have to follow forums and hacks and wait till they release new broken updates! Never ever got their hyped OTA update it didnt worked on x5 neither on this H6 Pro. I Should've spent more and bought Minix U9-H which atleast has no serious issues like Zidoo. I am gonna wait for one last update and if it didnt work I will sell it.

Hello to all!
I recently purchased this tv box and I still waiting to receive it. Unfortunately, I did not check the Zidoo forums before complete the purchase. Now, I am very affraid after all the negatives comments that the tv box have. Do you have any advise in order to avoid or not have to much issues with the box? For example, is it recomenbable make the upgrade to the lastest firmware? or make a factory reset?
I have a big issue, and it is that I can not request a refund or change of the box becasue in my country is very complicate to do that.
Thank you for your advises.

New firmware version
Hi, there is a new firmware version, ZIDOO_H6_N_v1.0.36_20180903.
Please consult Zidoo comunity place.
Nice work, thanks Zidoo it solve some problem and is more stable. :good::good:

mop09737 said:
Hi, there is a new firmware version, ZIDOO_H6_N_v1.0.36_20180903.
Please consult Zidoo comunity place.
Nice work, thanks Zidoo it solve some problem and is more stable. :good::good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They did not solve anything, infact they made it worse, Google is crashing every 4-5 seconds and the unit is useless untill you disable all google services.... Moreover they do not reply to any threads in their forum asking for help, since months now...

How can I root the Zidoo H6 Pro?