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i'm searching a simple and secure method for rooting my new Neo X7...
if possibile i prefer not using custom firmware, because i only need to have Superuser permission for ONE application, that is Orbot. I need this because Orbot can force every app on the phone to connect via Tor network ONLY if it has Superuser permission (without it can only use some browser to connect via Tor network).
i saw that some rooting method stopped working after 007 upgrade...
i'm not an expert with android rooting and modding, but i have some back experience from the time when i had the Nexus One... Today i have a Note II and i've used Framaroot to gain Superuser.
Searching the web for the Neo X7 rooting method i've found someone that uses Kingo, but later i've found that is a malicious program...
Now i'm wondering if can i use Framaroot or simple program like UnlockRoot, or there are other simple way for rootin the Neo X7?
thanks in advance
Goofy-Goober said:
i'm searching a simple and secure method for rooting my new Neo X7...
if possibile i prefer not using custom firmware, because i only need to have Superuser permission for ONE application, that is Orbot. I need this because Orbot can force every app on the phone to connect via Tor network ONLY if it has Superuser permission (without it can only use some browser to connect via Tor network).
i saw that some rooting method stopped working after 007 upgrade...
i'm not an expert with android rooting and modding, but i have some back experience from the time when i had the Nexus One... Today i have a Note II and i've used Framaroot to gain Superuser.
Searching the web for the Neo X7 rooting method i've found someone that uses Kingo, but later i've found that is a malicious program...
Now i'm wondering if can i use Framaroot or simple program like UnlockRoot, or there are other simple way for rootin the Neo X7?
thanks in advance
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
any suggestion?
Goofy-Goober said:
any suggestion?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
blog.geekbuying.com/index.php/2013/08/03/how-to-root-minix-neo-x7-quad-core-tv-box/
see this.
GeekEric said:
blog.geekbuying.com/index.php/2013/08/03/how-to-root-minix-neo-x7-quad-core-tv-box/
see this.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
outdated, wont work anymore with rom 007+
NixZero said:
outdated, wont work anymore with rom 007+
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
solved by installing latest Finless rom :good:
Goofy-Goober said:
Searching the web for the Neo X7 rooting method i've found someone that uses Kingo, but later i've found that is a malicious program...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The malicious part of Kingo was that their app used to read the IMEI of your GSM. In the meantime it seems that they updated their soft and have given up to this IMEI reading permission. In addition, as far as I know a smart TV box like Neo X7 has no GSM. Personally I used Kingo and easily rooted my non-GSM tablet.
Now I want to give it a try and use Kingo to root my new Minix Neo X7 due to arrive tomorrow. I do not want to install a custom ROM, but to customize the stock ROM according to my preferences. I will let you know about the success of this procedure. Some guys who already did that said the rooting procedure did not work from the very first attempt: one should root, then unroot and then root again.
Minix Neo X7 rooted with Kingo
Rooting Minix Neo X7 (firmware version 008) with Kingo was successfull: SuperSu is there and I also made a backup with Titanium Backup and it worked.
I'm not an expert at all but a few hints for rooting at your own risk: download and install Kingo on your PC and launch it; connect X7 to your TV (HDMI) and your PC (micro USB to USB cable) and power it; go to Minix Settings yellow app and in Device folder check USB connection as mass storage and in System folder check connected to PC and wait until Windows install Minix drivers. Then Kingo should recognize your device (if not verify once again in Settings if connected to PC is checked). Once recognized you press the Root button and the whole procedure it will take a few minutes. At the end your device will reboot and then will ask for Superuser permission. If you fail to grant permission reconnect your device to your PC while Kingo still open and you will be asked again for SuperSU permission.
Goofy-Goober said:
i'm searching a simple and secure method for rooting my new Neo X7...
if possibile i prefer not using custom firmware, because i only need to have Superuser permission for ONE application, that is Orbot. I need this because Orbot can force every app on the phone to connect via Tor network ONLY if it has Superuser permission (without it can only use some browser to connect via Tor network).
i saw that some rooting method stopped working after 007 upgrade...
i'm not an expert with android rooting and modding, but i have some back experience from the time when i had the Nexus One... Today i have a Note II and i've used Framaroot to gain Superuser.
Searching the web for the Neo X7 rooting method i've found someone that uses Kingo, but later i've found that is a malicious program...
Now i'm wondering if can i use Framaroot or simple program like UnlockRoot, or there are other simple way for rootin the Neo X7?
thanks in advance
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Was this the neo x7 or neo x7mini or is there any difference between the firmwares just the size of the device and the antenna?
Thanks for this thread to solve my problem:good:
rdnckreaper said:
Was this the neo x7 or neo x7mini or is there any difference between the firmwares just the size of the device and the antenna?
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Click to collapse
mine is the "big" neo x7 with the antenna.
i don't know if there are firmware differences between the two models
btw this device is a big delusion... it can't handle 1080p movies with soft subs.
i've tried to watch some eps of various anime on this device, but with 10bit, 1080p and softsubs there isn't a way to play them smoothly.
My Galaxy Note II can play same movies without any problems
Would anyone here recommend me buying this neo X7? I would like to play locally stored movies from Sd (or micro sd) and xbmc with 1080p and other movie streaming. Plus I NEED miracast and sxreen mirroring for my galaxy S4 to TV. I read reviews saying the smaller mini-pc stick/dongles are not as good as the mini box type. Is this true? Please advise me here. Im trying to buy this in next few hours.
Edit* sorry if I revived the dead here.
cyrusalmighty said:
Would anyone here recommend me buying this neo X7? I would like to play locally stored movies from Sd (or micro sd) and xbmc with 1080p and other movie streaming. Plus I NEED miracast and sxreen mirroring for my galaxy S4 to TV. I read reviews saying the smaller mini-pc stick/dongles are not as good as the mini box type. Is this true? Please advise me here. Im trying to buy this in next few hours.
Edit* sorry if I revived the dead here.
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I am necroposting to simply answer this question as NO. Minix and all these other Android Sticks and Hubs are crap and not worth your time or money. I bought an X7 and it is a buggy piece of crap. Minix is more focused on releasing new versions of it's hardware than perfecting what it has. Not to mention, if you read their forums, their mods are very rude and short tempered. I severely regret buying my Minix x7 and wish I had just bought a tablet from the get go instead.
mikemikemikexxx said:
I am necroposting to simply answer this question as NO. Minix and all these other Android Sticks and Hubs are crap and not worth your time or money. I bought an X7 and it is a buggy piece of crap. Minix is more focused on releasing new versions of it's hardware than perfecting what it has. Not to mention, if you read their forums, their mods are very rude and short tempered. I severely regret buying my Minix x7 and wish I had just bought a tablet from the get go instead.
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Actually now that I have owned this for a while I have to disagree with the "buggy piece of crap" point. This box hasnt been too bad to me since I usually plug an external HDD to it to watch movies. I think a intel Nuc or ECS Liva dual core for around $150 could do better if its only being used as a HTPC for XBMC and streaming (especially if you dont play games on android).
I agree it takes too much modding (which is android actually) and it is not "out of the box" perfect, but it has been a pretty good little media player and with Wasser rom 1.0.4. KK. Also Mxplayer on it has played some 3D MKV videos that my older dell dual-core laptop has stuttered on.
I havent had to deal with Minix mods , because I usually posted on Freaktab forums so I cant say anything there. Anyways I now have XBMC 13.2 stable running on it with all the movies and TV shows I could ever want. I also have my PS3 to connect for some android games and emulators but I admit there isnt that many. Anyways if you are still interested in the box go to FREAKTAB and download wasser 1.0.4 and get XBMC (if you havent already).
cyrusalmighty said:
Actually now that I have owned this for a while I have to disagree with the "buggy piece of crap" point. This box hasnt been too bad to me since I usually plug an external HDD to it to watch movies. I think a intel Nuc or ECS Liva dual core for around $150 could do better if its only being used as a HTPC for XBMC and streaming (especially if you dont play games on android).
I agree it takes too much modding (which is android actually) and it is not "out of the box" perfect, but it has been a pretty good little media player and with Wasser rom 1.0.4. KK. Also Mxplayer on it has played some 3D MKV videos that my older dell dual-core laptop has stuttered on.
I havent had to deal with Minix mods , because I usually posted on Freaktab forums so I cant say anything there. Anyways I now have XBMC 13.2 stable running on it with all the movies and TV shows I could ever want. I also have my PS3 to connect for some android games and emulators but I admit there isnt that many. Anyways if you are still interested in the box go to FREAKTAB and download wasser 1.0.4 and get XBMC (if you havent already).
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Everyone is entitled to their opinion but I shouldn't have to tinker for it to work in the first place, it should work out of the box as advertised. The tinkering comes into play when I want new features, not the other way around.
GeekEric said:
blog.geekbuying.com/index.php/2013/08/03/how-to-root-minix-neo-x7-quad-core-tv-box/
Vea esto.
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Click to collapse
I want another player - for Kodi and occasional simple games.
I have the FTV and although I'm happy with the performance, I don't like the inability to root (inc. custom recovery etc) and to use external storage.
Any alternative suggestion at a nearby price? Or is FTV the only way to go at that price mark?
Id wait now, unless you're desperate.
There may be some android tv boxes coming out soon which may be better than the fire tv or amazon might have a sale.
Amazon might cut a tenner out of the price of FTV, but I really want to have the ability to root and not to be afraid that my box will one day be locked forever.
The minix X8 looks tempting
papars said:
Amazon might cut a tenner out of the price of FTV, but I really want to have the ability to root and not to be afraid that my box will one day be locked forever.
The minix X8 looks tempting
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Click to collapse
do this. search on ebay for new sealed firetv's. ask the sellers to send you the serial number. Pick up a rooted one. Once rooted you are golden. I essentially got an extra rooted new one in my bunker for future use or I may hook it up in the bedroom in future. I'm glad I picked up an extra rooted one when I could.
The biggest thing you will loose when getting out of an architecture from amazon is the native apps like Netflix, bbc etc. I would stick with amazon ftv and find a rooted one. I'm sure if you look hard you will find yourself a rooted one If you disable the updates you should be fine.
Your suggestion is valid but I'm in europe and not really in need for netflix.
The price for sealed older FTVs seems somewhat high and by reading articles I see that even the SN wont warranty a rootable box.
In the meantime I will try to h/w root my box and see what comes out of this.
I recently shelfed my Fire Tv for the same reason. I have to many streaming boxes kind of a habit of mine (Fire Tv, Google Adt1, Ouya, Madcatz Mojo, Tronsmart Draco). Fire Tv still has the best commercial content but the hardware is getting outdated for games and the OS is way to restrictive. AndroidTV devices are still open to root and side loading but the commercial content is lacking has a great interface. On the opposite end is the Mojo and Draco with raw Android out of the box. They allow root without risk to warranty. I have gone with the Draco for now as it is very fast, Antutu test out at almost 60,000 with Power VR graphics. Madcatz has great quality and controller.
There are allot of consoles coming in the next few months, Razer Forge, Snail Games Obox, Nvidia Shied, Roku 4, Apple TV, others. You will be able to take your pick. My opinion for what its worth
Pure xbmc, get a rasp pi 2. Fast, cheap and simple with openelec And no amazon os to deal with. My living room fire tv has been relegated to the drawer since getting one.
I have raspberry pi first gen. It works ok and decoding is great but is sloooooow as death.
I've replaced it with AFT and I don't want to go back.
pi 2 could be faster but the cost of getting it operational (case, psu, remote etc) is near the cost of a commercial box. I will check out the options listed in above posts.
papars said:
I have raspberry pi first gen. It works ok and decoding is great but is sloooooow as death.
I've replaced it with AFT and I don't want to go back.
pi 2 could be faster but the cost of getting it operational (case, psu, remote etc) is near the cost of a commercial box. I will check out the options listed in above posts.
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Click to collapse
i've moved my fire TV to a bedroom and have been running 2 s802 m8n china boxes and if you dont care about android and games.. openelec is flawless on it for me, full CEC control, refresh rate changing, etc etc.. best 75$ i've spent so far.. after using these for a while you really notice how much better openelec runs than kodi on android.
nhumber said:
i've moved my fire TV to a bedroom and have been running 2 s802 m8n china boxes and if you dont care about android and games.. openelec is flawless on it for me, full CEC control, refresh rate changing, etc etc.. best 75$ i've spent so far.. after using these for a while you really notice how much better openelec runs than kodi on android.
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Click to collapse
Openelec is an operating system which runs the XBMC/Kodi program the same way that Android is an operating system that runs XBMC/Kodi. The only difference is that Openelec is a minimal operating system that uses just enough to run XBMC/Kodi, while Android is a full operating system able to run several programs. A couple years ago when XBMC came to Android it sucked and I quit using it after about a week, but it has came along way since and my Openelec system running Kodi cannot compare to my Fire TV running Kodi.
papars said:
I have raspberry pi first gen. It works ok and decoding is great but is sloooooow as death.
I've replaced it with AFT and I don't want to go back.
pi 2 could be faster but the cost of getting it operational (case, psu, remote etc) is near the cost of a commercial box. I will check out the options listed in above posts.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have to chime in here. With some smart shopping ill bet you could get all you need for 60 or less. My rpi is still the most consistent , reliable kodi device but like you, i thought it was too slow (even running off usb 3.0)
But ive heard good things about rpi 2 just running it on a class 4 sd card. My advice--dont use a case, its not needed unless theres reason to think itll get damaged. My tv remote works fine with it and this might not matter cuz if you have b+ you should have a lot of the stuff u want or need. I heard you might want to upgrade the power supply. I bought one for the b+ that worked great for 8 bucks on ebay. If i didnt care about netflix thatd be the way imight go. Of course that could change in the upcoming months.
porkenhimer said:
Openelec is an operating system which runs the XBMC/Kodi program the same way that Android is an operating system that runs XBMC/Kodi. The only difference is that Openelec is a minimal operating system that uses just enough to run XBMC/Kodi, while Android is a full operating system able to run several programs. A couple years ago when XBMC came to Android it sucked and I quit using it after about a week, but it has came along way since and my Openelec system running Kodi cannot compare to my Fire TV running Kodi.
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Click to collapse
thanks, im aware of the setups, had a firetv since day one.. had fedora installed on it at one point even, what im saying is that Kodi for linux (openelec in my case) is much more stable than kodi for android or maybe its just linux stability vs android stability.. i dunno. but you dont get hangs or freezes like you can sometimes get with the android boxes, i also said the main things that are better with openelec than with kodi on the fireTV are fulling working CEC control, refresh rate changing since im kind of an videophile and watching any movie on the fireTV results in less than perfect playback, and HD audio support is also another nice feature you cant get on a fireTV.
porkenhimer said:
Openelec is an operating system which runs the XBMC/Kodi program the same way that Android is an operating system that runs XBMC/Kodi. The only difference is that Openelec is a minimal operating system that uses just enough to run XBMC/Kodi, while Android is a full operating system able to run several programs. A couple years ago when XBMC came to Android it sucked and I quit using it after about a week, but it has came along way since and my Openelec system running Kodi cannot compare to my Fire TV running Kodi.
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Click to collapse
Depend on the hw that your OE is running on, got myself an Asus Chromebox that costs slightly more than the Fire TV when it was on sale last Black Friday, it runs like a dream.
As for running Kodi/XBMC on FireTV vs generic Android box vs OpenElec/Xbmcbuntu/Linux + XBMC I'd say it doesn't matter any longer. I've run all 3 ways, and it used to make a difference. A cheap booksize miniPC running OpenElec or Xbmcbuntu was much better than any Android based solution for a variety of reasons. That just isn't the case any longer. Of course if you have better hardware things like menus or the time it takes to start streaming a show will be a bit quicker, but otherwise you can get a solid stable Kodi/XBMC environment on any of these.
Back to the original question, personally I'd hold out until some of the Google Android TV boxes (not generic Android boxes) start shipping. Not because I think they will be better than GATV boxes, but because there should be a better selection of options and one might be a better fit than your two AFTV choices. Either way, it's hard to beat AFTV and I expect similar results from GATV boxes. Side-loading isn't as easy as just installing from the app store, but there are options that have all the plug-ins ready to go. Unlike other setups, you don't have to figure out which remote to use or how to get it configured (yes, I know some generic Android boxes come setup for XBMC and even have their own customized XBMC, I have one).
In short, I used to have a mix of generic Android boxes and mini HTPCs running OpenElec/XBMCbuntu. Now I have AFTV boxes in daily use and two Rokus that are almost never used. For the price point, ease of use, stability and extra functionality above and beyond Kodi the AFTV and presumably GATV boxes just make more sense.
One last thing I almost forgot - the space limitation on the AFTV is a huge drawback. Until (unless) Amazon releases an update to let us use USB drives for apps and data this could be a big issue. If for some reason you absolutely require plenty of disk space, perhaps you don't have network storage and need all your media on the device itself, then AFTV may not be an option.
GATV might have the same lock as amazon regarding custom updates / root.
I would like to escape the proprietary ecosystem opposed by amazon and google if possible to avoid possible lockouts in the near future.
I like the amazon box, is fast and easy to use with its remote. I use a NAS for my media but I would like to have root and extra storage option on it.
The mojo looks like a good option, I might go for this.
I've been using a Fire TV Stick for about a week now, after you sideload Kodi (and then use your Amazon account to install Kodi on another device, so you trick the FireTV into showing Kodi in your Recent apps on the home screen) I don't think you can beat the bang for the buck.
I'm about to order the Minix X8-H Plus. This thing seems a lot better than the AFTV! I have a 256gb SD card lying around, so I can't wait to throw it in this thing. It has 2gb RAM, 2.0ghz Quad-Core Processor, SD slot, three USB 2.0 ports, gigabit ethernet, 16gb eMMC, 4K2K UHD video playback, Octo-Core Mali-450 GPU, Dual-Band Wi-Fi 802.11ac and 4K H.265 / HEVC Hardware Decoding Support.
It looks like they're going for around $150-$160. Check it out:
http://www.minix.com.hk/Products/NEO-X8-H-Plus-Android-TV.html
papars said:
Your suggestion is valid but I'm in europe and not really in need for netflix.
The price for sealed older FTVs seems somewhat high and by reading articles I see that even the SN wont warranty a rootable box.
In the meantime I will try to h/w root my box and see what comes out of this.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just got a firetv from ebay and its rootable. I've done about 28 mods and haven't seen one with series 305 which are the incorrect ones.
shutterslaps said:
I'm about to order the Minix X8-H Plus. This thing seems a lot better than the AFTV! I have a 256gb SD card lying around, so I can't wait to throw it in this thing. It has 2gb RAM, 2.0ghz Quad-Core Processor, SD slot, three USB 2.0 ports, gigabit ethernet, 16gb eMMC, 4K2K UHD video playback, Octo-Core Mali-450 GPU, Dual-Band Wi-Fi 802.11ac and 4K H.265 / HEVC Hardware Decoding Support.
It looks like they're going for around $150-$160. Check it out:
http://www.minix.com.hk/Products/NEO-X8-H-Plus-Android-TV.html
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Click to collapse
Thats a sweet box for sure.. I am not too sure its a fair comparison though.. My AFTV cost me $80 and came with a remote. The $145 standalone box is more than twice as much if you get a controller. My Android MiniPC's (older) have been disappointing when trying to run Kodi etc.. which led me to the snappy performance of AFTV.. This box looks to have all the power you could need. Should be fun to have
This note on the webpage should be noted as well - The NEO X8-H Plus only supports standard definition Netflix. Netflix 1080p HD and 4K UHD resolution are not available on any MINIX NEO Series devices
I have been watching the Razer Forge TV box as well it looks to be a beast for $99
Hello,
I have regular full android 5.1 on my (2015) Shield TV Pro, I know what I am doing but with all the different updates that have came out since I bought my shield tv and rooted it with full android. It is confusing as to how I can get the new android 7 nougat? Please if someone could explain to me how I do it and where I can get the files I need? Also if rooting is possible and if it is possible to have FULL android 7 nougat like I currently have with full android 5.1 Lollipop. To me it seems so much easier and more intuitive to use the FULL version of androids and then almost all apps in the app store work no problem no having to go around and find ways to install programs/games you want that aren't in the app store or won't work since its a different type of android. THANK YOU!
I guess you'll have to wait untill nVIDIA get 'round to actually releasing the Nougat Sources for the 2015/17 Pro version. At the moment only the 2017 (16Gb) Source / Recoveries (IIRC) are currently available.
okay
Ichijoe said:
I guess you'll have to wait untill nVIDIA get 'round to actually releasing the Nougat Sources for the 2015/17 Pro version. At the moment only the 2017 (16Gb) Source / Recoveries (IIRC) are currently available.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Really? They are released? That is strange I wonder why they released the 16gb version last week but the 500gb version isn't available at all? Weird well I just have a regular 1080p TV and I use headphones...and play any games on my PC (master race)...so I don't even know what possible new features I would need? What are the main new features ? Again Thanks
My only guess is that the Shield Pro 2017, has not been released yet for whatever reason. Much like the suspension that everyone was going to get the Update back on the 16th (of January). The release date of the Pro (January 30th 2017), must have also been wrong. Or I must have been living under a Rock, or the Press just got tired of writing about it. 'Cause I must have missed it otherwise.
As for the Difference those are generally reserved for the Shield Slim (i.e. 2017 16Gb) which is smaller, and has had a number of cuts. (IR Port, MicroUSB, and MicroSD Port). They also replaced the Gamepad, and Remote. Of which only the new Gamepad is to me of interest.
Otherwise the new Software stuff inludes Amazon Prime Video (al-la FireTV), and Steam Big Screen (Mirroring). Which I gather you'd still need a fairly useless Mastergrade Masterrace PC for minimum GTX 650 in order to use. Like I'm gonna let the PC run and play games on my tv, as if I could! When I could and will otherwise be forced to by SWMBO sit at the Computer instead.
Before anyone says game streaming I wanted to know if there was any other features that I should consider when deciding over a cheap android box and the shield. I owned a cheap android box for 2 years and it was really good but it was slow and never got updates but kodi worked perfectly until 17 update, but it's hard justifying a $300 price tag for the 16gb over $50 for the cheap one.
1. CPU performance, much faster then any s912, especially it have active cooling make it can keep in full speed, if you use any old amlogic box you will know you just can't decode any 1080 hi10p due to either the HW decoder not support or CPU not fast enough for SW decode. The shield can do it by CPU with 50-70%cpu usage max. Also although newer amlogic such as S912 support h265 but it is very buggy, the shield TV on the other hand is very stable.
2. For Android gaming I don't think you can find any android box in this size/price can better then it. Sure you can get a x86 box but that will much more expensive and larger.
3. Support 1080 ycbcr 422 12bit , I don't have 4K so dunno what is support, but as I remember there are no other cheap android box will support this output. (Sure you will need to take care the HDMI version mismatch problem if you got AVR)
If you will not use Plex and don't need IR then I suggest you just get the 16GB version, by the way I attach a 128GB USB stick to store my mame rom, much faster then hdd version.
Previous I use mi box and some other android box, but I can say shield TV is the most problem free and the fastest one for me.
$50 android boxes are junk, period. These things should be illegal to sell in USA. The manufactures are horrible at support & you never get updates. The only time a cheap android box is worth buying is if there are active private developers. Here's where the price difference matters, your $50 box lasted you 2 years. I've had my shield tv for almost 2 years & my guess is it'll still be alive & kicking in 10 years & still be my main media center. The shield tv was released as a future proof device, meaning it has a long life span while the $50 junk boxes have a very short limited life span hardware & software wise, you'll be replacing these types of boxes every 2 years.
Since when was the 16GB version $300?!
What feature(s)?!
In One Word... Widevine L(evel)1 support. (Ok tht was Two Words, whatever...)
Why is this a big deal? In Two Words this time. Amazon, and Netflix. In full UHD, let alone FHD. Your ~50$ 'Droid Box most likely will never have it. The only exception to that rule would be the Xaiomi Mi Box. Which like the Shield TV is a licenced AndroidTV Box. Which is based on the well known AmLogic S905 SoC. I have no ideas on how, or if Amazon will ever be ported to it. For now I gather it's a bit of a Shield exclusive. But, Netflix should be fine, along with the other usual suspects.
There is also the Gaming, and Emulation side of the Device, that puts it well ahead of the competition. With its small but exclusive Titles under the nVIDIA Lightspeed Studios. But, that may not be enough to convince a mass take up of it considering the initial cost.
If all you need is a cheap Kodi Box than by all means. You could pick one up, and gamble that you get a working one. Note I got burnt TWICE with an AmLogic S912 SoC Device. The first One cooked itself, while using Chrome, and the Second came with a defective WiFi Chip. So you take your chances with an unknown when buying One of these Devices.
When it comes to Updates, you'd be lucky to see a few Bug fixes before whoever's in charge gets bored, and moves on. nVIDIA have been supporting the Shield TV since it came out in 2015, and they will probably still be supporting it for a while yet with the 2017 version.
One last thing you might like to know about Kodi, and these Cheapo Boxes. Unless those Manufactures get off their butts, and code their CODECs to Android spec. Kodi will only ever function in Software mode only. Which will have a major impact on Video performance. Alas I don't know if the Mi Box also has that problem. Given its a specialized AmLogic build, perhaps not? But, a native Netflix App does not a Kodi make.
Of course there is One other thing that separates both the Shield TV, and the Mi Box. (Which I hinted at earlier.)
They are both Licenced AndroidTV units. And, in case that isn't quite clear to you. Then a word of caution to you. AndroidTV ≠ Android (e.g. Some generic 'Droid Box.), You should expect to see virtually nothing in the (AndroidTV), PlayStore. Certainly nothing like what most People probably imagine, after getting off the PlayStore on their Samsung Phablet. And, you can thank Google for that!
se1000 said:
Since when was the 16GB version $300?!
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Probably since nVIDIA weren't able to meet the demand for the Device which drove Scalpers to scalp it along with the Pro for Upwards of 600€'s, and no I wish I was making that up. The only time the Shield came down to reasonable levels, was just before they announced the Shield 2 (a.k.a. The Shield TV Slim), which was rightly rejected by those who already had a Shield. Seeing that I was able to get a used '15 Pro for 'round 200€ back in January. Good luck finding one now, for that price. If I wanted to spend nearly 300€ on a used One. I would rather just buy the new '17 Model for a fraction more. (i.e. 329€).
Ichijoe said:
What feature(s)?!
One last thing you might like to know about Kodi, and these Cheapo Boxes. Unless those Manufactures get off their butts, and code their CODECs to Android spec. Kodi will only ever function in Software mode only. Which will have a major impact on Video performance. Alas I don't know if the Mi Box also has that problem. Given its a specialized AmLogic build, perhaps not? But, a native Netflix App does not a Kodi make.
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You are correct on this, most cheap android box had broken mediacodec support, as KODI remove the amcodec support so either 1. switch to old version/spmc which have amcode, 2. SW decode, but the cpu not fast enough most of the time.
the google version of mi box's mediacodec are ok, but it still cannot hw decode hi10p (main reason I switch from mi box to shield tv)
DummyPLUG said:
You are correct on this, most cheap android box had broken mediacodec support, as KODI remove the amcodec support so either 1. switch to old version/spmc which have amcode, 2. SW decode, but the cpu not fast enough most of the time.
the google version of mi box's mediacodec are ok, but it still cannot hw decode hi10p (main reason I switch from mi box to shield tv)
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Outside of actively getting off my [REDACTED] to search for some hi10p Materials, back when I was still knee deep in Linux VDR (i.e. HTPC). The chances of actually encountering anything actually encoded at 10bits is extremely rare. And I do likes me some KissAnime. So I would chalk it down as a nice to have feature, and not the Killer One, that Widevine Level 1 is. As only the Select TVs running ATV, or the MiBox, and Shield TV are capable of such high end DRMs, for legaly being able to watch Netflix in either FHD, or UHD.
Since those other Boxes only have Widevine Level 3. You'd be lucky to watch Netflix in 480p MAX!
So for me that's a bigger deal going forward. Mores the pitty that the MiBox is virtually useless outside of North America though.
Not going into hard core comparison as far as audio support and video support but just general laymen comparison.
As reference current devices I own a A95x cheap android box, Fire TV Sticks, Nexus Players and 2nd Gen Fire TV, Roku2, Shield TV Gen 1
1. Performance - I didn't think the difference would be that huge since I mainly just use streaming services and apps like Netflix and Kodi to name a few but it's noticeable even in just those two areas. My FTV2 was snappy I thought compared to my other devices but the Shield just Launches apps quicker and goes through local and internet streams a lot smoother. Not a gamer but I have used them and let kids use them to try games and again just performance is amazing.
2. Ease of use my gripe with the a95x cheapo is It was IR remote and the interface just sucked. FTV2 and FTV sticks had their own interface over Lollipop and this too I am not a big fan of. Nexus Player and Shield TV are very straightforward and use the Leanback Launcher IMO easier to use and get google play store unlike Amazons offerings.
3. You get what you pay for. It's an investment that hopefully it will last. Performance wise I'm not worried about having to get a new box for a while now. Also the build and the remotes just are more appealing with the metal finish and all and they are rechargeable (yes the drawback is it's not replaceable batteries). It's running official Android TV yes the Playstore is limited for TV devices but for average user that doesn't want to side load and just works great out of the box it's perfect.
If cost is an issue like it was for me just wait for a deal or find one used if you're willing to take the chance. I just got my 1st gen Shield 2 weeks ago because I bought it used for $120 and had I tested it beforehand I never would have bought my a95x, fire tv sticks. I am happy with the Nexus Players I scored those for $40 but it's discontinued and my FTV2 but the Shield TV kicked those devices out of the family room and now those are in mine and kids bedrooms.
If performance isn't a huge deal then I wouldn't upgrade. If it is but cost still too high there are alternatives Fire TV (Just ew Amazon interface) and Nexus Player (Discontinued) or Mi box (Owned for a month and returned it performance wasn't as good as Nexus Player).
I have 2 fire sticks, a firetv box, and the new version of the shield TV. The shield is fast and responsive, but I don't think its performance justifies the price. If you not going for game steaming... I would just use a firetv box. Kodi performance is on par.
Here is my problem with the shield TV. Ram. For its price point I would expect 4gb of ram. This was a huge mistake I feel when they released the new version.
Don't get me wrong, I love my shield but if I didn't get mine for 175 with a deal, I would have not got it.
I couldn't disagree more with the majority of what's been said. It is true that the shield is an investment. It's worth it in the long run to get a shield. Talks of "4gb of ram" are comical at best. You want 4gb of ram buy a jetson tx1 for $500+ The point is, 4gb of ram isn't required when you have a constant power source. Take the Nintendo switch for example, yea sure it's basically a jetson tx1 (4gb ram) but clocked at a much lower speed to run on battery.
I would say it depends greatly upon how you want to come to the Shield TV. If your looking at it as just another in a long line of 'Droid Boxen, then that is how you will see it. If your like me, and your coming in from the huge running costs of an HTPC, with VDR Recording capabilities. Then the Shield becomes self-evident. As it can do those same jobs in a much tighter Footprint, and use just a microfraction of the Electricity to do it. Everything else is just a nice bonus. e.g. The Games, Emulations, Android itself.
So no Op is correct the Shield TV isn't the right answer for everyone. If for example Op wanted just the cheapest Box to do the most basic streaming (Amazon, Hulu, Netflix HBO Go, etc....), Then the Amazon Fire TV, would be right up his street. But IIRC, that only had 2GB of RAM, not that you would need it.
Also, if you want extra storage, you're better off getting the 16GB model and adding an external HDD. The way Nvidia set up the Pro model is kinda dumb - everything (including the system ROM) runs on the HDD, not flash, so it's really slow. It's also not user-replaceable without voiding the warranty and a lot of hassle. 4 TB portable drives are a bit over $100, so you can get a lot more storage for almost the same price.
Mogster2K said:
Also, if you want extra storage, you're better off getting the 16GB model and adding an external HDD. The way Nvidia set up the Pro model is kinda dumb - everything (including the system ROM) runs on the HDD, not flash, so it's really slow. It's also not user-replaceable without voiding the warranty and a lot of hassle. 4 TB portable drives are a bit over $100, so you can get a lot more storage for almost the same price.
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That might be true... But it's not like you couldn't just clone the contents of the Original SSHD, and then write that to the heavier, faster SSD. There are at least Two Threads on that subject, that I'm personally aware of. As to it being slower? That only applies when doing things like unlocking the Bootloader (a precursor to rooting), or factory resetting it where in both cases it'll take the best part of 2h to complete. Under day to day use However, I greatly doubt there is any major difference in the overall speed.
Also the newer Slim (and, light) Shield TV, also lack a few things, like the IR Port (for Harmony Remotes), and the OTG MicroUSB Port, and worse of all the MicroSD Slot.
Also one thing about Adopted Storage, e.g. adding external Storage. Just because you could add a 4TB SS/H/DD, doesn't give you licence to go 'round installing everything to your heart's content as not everything will be installed to External (Adopted), Storage and you will most likely be scratching your head about not having enough Space to install some Game even if you have the best part of 4+ GBs left inside in your External Storage. Just the way it is on my Phablet alas Adopted Storage is kind of a lie. As I see it.
If you replace the Pro HDD with an SSD, you're paying $100 just for the hard drive bay. (Edit: I did not realize the Pro hardware was basically unchanged.) Also, I would not recommend using an HDD as adopted storage anyway. Better to leave it as NTFS since Android network transfers are so slow.
Finally, it is possible to boot the Shield TV from an external SSD. You need a special boot image (MM only unfortunately) and an SSD in a USB enclosure. It's a bit tricky to set up but works pretty well. A Nougat version is in the works.
Ichijoe said:
That might be true... But it's not like you couldn't just clone the contents of the Original SSHD, and then write that to the heavier, faster SSD. There are at least Two Threads on that subject, that I'm personally aware of. As to it being slower? That only applies when doing things like unlocking the Bootloader (a precursor to rooting), or factory resetting it where in both cases it'll take the best part of 2h to complete. Under day to day use However, I greatly doubt there is any major difference in the overall speed.
Also the newer Slim (and, light) Shield TV, also lack a few things, like the IR Port (for Harmony Remotes), and the OTG MicroUSB Port, and worse of all the MicroSD Slot.
Also one thing about Adopted Storage, e.g. adding external Storage. Just because you could add a 4TB SS/H/DD, doesn't give you licence to go 'round installing everything to your heart's content as not everything will be installed to External (Adopted), Storage and you will most likely be scratching your head about not having enough Space to install some Game even if you have the best part of 4+ GBs left inside in your External Storage. Just the way it is on my Phablet alas Adopted Storage is kind of a lie. As I see it.
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Try enable force app install on external in developer options, I had no problem to save everything to my USB.
The cheap "4K Android TV" series from Walmart, built by Funai but branded as Philips, is extremely affordable and seems to be unlocked. Has anyone had any luck getting these to run alternative firmware (Lineage?) or even stock Android TV?
Mine is extremely buggy (forgets the date/time, causing HBO and other streaming apps to crash, etc) and extremely slow. Many times apps never fully exit, eating up the limited RAM available. Newer apps refuse to install from the Play Store (even though I'm able to force install them by downloading the APK) which tells me there's some sort of poorly-coded identification going on.
I was able to figure out some hardware specs:
It reports the board/device as "freesia" and the hardware/platform as "maxim" - the quad-core ARM Cortex A53 chip runs at 1400mhz (rev r0p4) and it has 1.5GB RAM and 4GB internal storage. The built-in graphics report as Mali T820 (ARM) (vulkan integrated gpu 1358996kb) running at 1920x1080.
I've updated it as far as the factory updates will go to Android 9 Pie.
I'm new to doing much with Android but I write software for a living so pretty comfortable hacking this thing if people can give me a few pointers!
Rooting a Funai Philips Android TV
I've got a 65-inch 4K Funai/Philips Android TV. Is this TV rootable or flashable? The OS is so laggy on this device it makes it almost unbearable to use. Opening specific screens takes seconds because of all the quirky animations. I'd much rather...
forum.xda-developers.com
The above has users who have unlocked fastboot etc, and have achieved root through the OTA firmware
Thanks. Do you know what it would take to go beyond that? I asked on the Lineage subreddit but they basically have rules against talking about anything but official builds, so it's kind of a catch 22.
andsat said:
Thanks. Do you know what it would take to go beyond that? I asked on the Lineage subreddit but they basically have rules against talking about anything but official builds, so it's kind of a catch 22.
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To be honest? ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Lineage for TVs seems far fetched,
You’d need to find a person who’d spend their time to build a rom for your TV.
Don’t know much about ROM development
It's already been done for other devices. Here's one for Raspberry Pi https://konstakang.com/devices/rpi4/LineageOS18-ATV/
how does one get/obtain the ota firmware ? I still have an unupdated bootloader unlocked 75 inch model and would like to do some stuff with it. i have been waiting to connect it to the internet because i didn't want to be lock into or out of anything until i was ready.