Awesome Box! - Fire TV General

I have to say, I am a new fan of this box. I started down this path by getting a new Samsung smart TV. I ended up putting this on a wall with no cable outlet, so I used it only as a non cable unit. I enjoyed Netflix, HBO Go, Amazon Prime, etc...but I was annoyed by the things that were missing. I got a Roku, and liked it, but still could only put on it what Roku wanted me to. Last week, I got my Fire TV, and thus far, I have successfully installed and or side loaded HBO Go, Max Go, Starz Play, Encore Play, Showtime Anytime, Xfinity Go, Firefox, Chrome, and the list continues to grow. For a tinkering kind of guy like me, this is perfect, far better than Roku, Apple TV, etc. If you are thinking about it, go for it!

Thebobc said:
I have to say, I am a new fan of this box. I started down this path by getting a new Samsung smart TV. I ended up putting this on a wall with no cable outlet, so I used it only as a non cable unit. I enjoyed Netflix, HBO Go, Amazon Prime, etc...but I was annoyed by the things that were missing. I got a Roku, and liked it, but still could only put on it what Roku wanted me to. Last week, I got my Fire TV, and thus far, I have successfully installed and or side loaded HBO Go, Max Go, Starz Play, Encore Play, Showtime Anytime, Xfinity Go, Firefox, Chrome, and the list continues to grow. For a tinkering kind of guy like me, this is perfect, far better than Roku, Apple TV, etc. If you are thinking about it, go for it!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Tempting, but
no spotify,
no google play store (so all the apps I have bought for my phone I cannot get on this box for free)
no root, so cant install apk easily
I am looking at THIS TRONSMART S89 - supposedly does 4k too... and is much faster than firetv. The only negative is you cant do Amazon Prime as amazon have blocked that for Android (surprise surprise!) In the UK Prime is using Silverlight.

fredphoesh said:
Tempting, but
no spotify,
no google play store (so all the apps I have bought for my phone I cannot get on this box for free)
no root, so cant install apk easily
I am looking at THIS TRONSMART S89 - supposedly does 4k too... and is much faster than firetv. The only negative is you cant do Amazon Prime as amazon have blocked that for Android (surprise surprise!) In the UK Prime is using Silverlight.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Spotify is working, but does require a air mouse or keyboard for now.
Sideload, sideload, sideload.
Apks install as easy as pie "adb install xxxxx.apk"

Actually, any app you have on a rooted phone, you can send yourself the apk and sideload to the Fire TV (I use Root Explorer). As to whether they work or not...it is a try and see thing.

I'm really loving this device as well! I will say that it is really catered to those who have bought into the Amazon ecosystem (like me, who has prime and purchases all of my music from Amazon mp3 store... plus I have a slew of apps I've purchased from the Amazon app store over time). I have two of them now and was able to successfully sideload and run Amazon MP3 on one. I'm looking forward to future updates and expansions of the app store.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk

perknite said:
I'm really loving this device as well! I will say that it is really catered to those who have bought into the Amazon ecosystem (like me, who has prime and purchases all of my music from Amazon mp3 store... plus I have a slew of apps I've purchased from the Amazon app store over time). I have two of them now and was able to successfully sideload and run Amazon MP3 on one. I'm looking forward to future updates and expansions of the app store.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Exactly this. The Fire TV is fantastic for people like myself that are invested in the, as you called it, Amazon ecosystem. I'm looking forward to watching "The Sopranos" again once the old HBO content comes to Prime.
As for app selection, you can sideload most anything you'd like. There are orientation issues with some apps that are easily fixable.

Thebobc said:
I have to say, I am a new fan of this box. I started down this path by getting a new Samsung smart TV. I ended up putting this on a wall with no cable outlet, so I used it only as a non cable unit. I enjoyed Netflix, HBO Go, Amazon Prime, etc...but I was annoyed by the things that were missing. I got a Roku, and liked it, but still could only put on it what Roku wanted me to. Last week, I got my Fire TV, and thus far, I have successfully installed and or side loaded HBO Go, Max Go, Starz Play, Encore Play, Showtime Anytime, Xfinity Go, Firefox, Chrome, and the list continues to grow. For a tinkering kind of guy like me, this is perfect, far better than Roku, Apple TV, etc. If you are thinking about it, go for it!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thats great to hear. I just bought a 2014 year Samsung 4K Smart TV. I have a Roku 3 and a Apple TV as we well. Neither has StarZ or MaxGO. I have Dish Network. Will Max GO and StarZ Play work on Fire TV? i.e. Is Dish listed as one of the options to log in? If yes, where do I get the apps for sideloading? Thanks for doing all this research.

I also have Dish. I get HBO Go but can not login to any of the others with my Dish account.

wastate2014 said:
Dish from what I can see only has login to HBO GO? I tried others but Dish is not listed?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Are these questions or statements?

wastate2014 said:
I also have Dish. I get HBO Go but can not login to any of the others with my Dish account.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I had trouble getting logged into HBO GO through my Comcast login too, but I eventually got it working. I think there are issues between the app and the various provider login systems.

fredphoesh said:
Tempting, but
no spotify,
no google play store (so all the apps I have bought for my phone I cannot get on this box for free)
no root, so cant install apk easily
I am looking at THIS TRONSMART S89 - supposedly does 4k too... and is much faster than firetv. The only negative is you cant do Amazon Prime as amazon have blocked that for Android (surprise surprise!) In the UK Prime is using Silverlight.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was a bout to say whaaat we got all of it then I realized this post is from May lol.
I think we had towelroot in May? or it was later anyway so much changed since may

Related

Would the kf work in the uk

i want to order a kindle fire but i am not sure if it will work here in the uk as it is not for me but for a family member the person would just use the device as stock
Stock right now,the KF would not be a good choice for use in the UK. They would have a hard time accessing any media. Amazon app store and the Amazon cloud would not work.
Sent from my Kindle Fire
krelvinaz said:
Stock right now,the KF would not be a good choice for use in the UK. They would have a hard time accessing any media. Amazon app store and the Amazon cloud would not work.
Sent from my Kindle Fire
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Right, in the UK you'd be unable to access the media stores. Too much conflict in copyright stuff between here and there.
I believe I heard the Kindle would burst into flames once it crossed US borders...
I'm quite sure the Kindle would work perfectly fine elsewhere.
I've been having a blast with it for over a week and haven't touched a single amazon based feature, which I believe would be the only place you'd have issues.
Thelgow said:
I believe I heard the Kindle would burst into flames once it crossed US borders...
I'm quite sure the Kindle would work perfectly fine elsewhere.
I've been having a blast with it for over a week and haven't touched a single amazon based feature, which I believe would be the only place you'd have issues.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, if you had media to fill it yourself and could use your cloud account for music in the UK (don't see why you couldn't) then yeah that would work. But a lot are likely buying it due to them already buying into Amazon services. If his friend was going to hack it, that's be one thing, but stock currently I'm not sure it's the best choice outside the US as none of the Amazon features work.
Don't get me wrong, I'm sure you could find uses for it, I just think that your tablet would be a bit more crippled stock without Amazon services than other possible choices, at least currently. So I'll say it honestly depends on what your friend would get out of it.
I'm using one here in Brazil, so I guess you would have the same experience I have.
All Amazon stuff are useless, except Kindle for books (the same Android app you install in any device). You even can't install other Apps because Amazon App Store blocks everything outside US (even free apps).
The only useful thing you can do to a Fire outside the US is to install third-party apps and root your device to make it like any other Android device. And I loved it for that: a cheap Android tablet, open, unblocked, and easy to hack. Everything I wanted.
The reality is that you'll be buying an Android tablet, not a Kindle as it is in America.
I got the amazon apps to work outside the us using us address and test card.I have rooted and installed aneroid market aswell.Just waiting for touch recovery and then the fun will start.
thanks for the info i will just buy the normal transformer or a ipad
it is possibile to have Kindle Fire working fully outside US using for example unblock-us.
With fully i mean, cloud, streaming content (audio, video, books, etc), amazon app store, etc.
therethere said:
it is possibile to have Kindle Fire working fully outside US using for example unblock-us.
With fully i mean, cloud, streaming content (audio, video, books, etc), amazon app store, etc.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, i can confirm. Using unblock-us is the solution, i use it in Germany and it works fine.

Is kindle fire worth buying outside US?

All,
I am from India and seriously considering buying KF.
Only issue is that I am doubtful as to how much of the device's capability would I be able to utilize being outside US.
Also, Would I be able to purchase apps through KF?
What about books and magazines?
Would love to hear from people outside US who have bought KF.
Thanks!
You should adjust your title to ask about whether you should buy it as you live outside the US.
Your thread is right next to another thread with the EXACT same title and about something completely different.
Thanks a lot for the suggestion. Edited the title. Hoping to get a better response this time
Sent from my GT-I9001 using XDA App
Using a Kindle outside of the US is not a problem if you are happy to do a little work.
It is possible to buy apps and watch moves via Amazon prime using a vpn.
It is also relatively easy to side load apps from other sources by literally searching for the apk file and then download and install them directly to the Kindle.
Again it is not too difficult to root the device and install a different launcher and the full Android Market, you will lose the ability to stream from Amazon prime but to be honest you won’t be losing much.
Ive gone through all the above and am now running the CM7 Rom which again completely changes the device to a fully unlocked working Android tablet which is not pad for 200 dollars.
The only downside I have found is nothing to do with geological location, for me a tablet this size is just too small.
duquesa said:
Using a Kindle outside of the US is not a problem if you are happy to do a little work.
It is possible to buy apps and watch moves via Amazon prime using a vpn.
It is also relatively easy to side load apps from other sources by literally searching for the apk file and then download and install them directly to the Kindle.
Again it is not too difficult to root the device and install a different launcher and the full Android Market, you will lose the ability to stream from Amazon prime but to be honest you won’t be losing much.
Ive gone through all the above and am now running the CM7 Rom which again completely changes the device to a fully unlocked working Android tablet which is not pad for 200 dollars.
The only downside I have found is nothing to do with geological location, for me a tablet this size is just too small.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What he said. It's still a great device to use outside the U.S. If you don't plan on messing with it (rooting, installing another launcher or CM7/9) and want to keep it on stock like its meant to be used, then don't buy it.
i'm using kindle fire on europe (portugal), and with the stock rom.
I can watch movies on prime, listen to music, buy books, install apps (free on amazon store and sideloaded the other ones).
So i will keep stock room, cause i can do everything.
therethere said:
i'm using kindle fire on europe (portugal), and with the stock rom.
I can watch movies on prime, listen to music, buy books, install apps (free on amazon store and sideloaded the other ones).
So i will keep stock room, cause i can do everything.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Same here from germany, it works fine!
well am also in India and just ordered mine. will get it in 10 days. I already have amazon account with fake US address and some 200 apps collected by me. Also I plan to root it and use some other launcher and maybe install cm7 too. I have no intention of watching videos on Amazon prime and only want to use to read a few ebooks, play games and movie which I can load on the storage. At the price and for the quality it serves this purpose great in my opinion. Depending on your needs this might vary.
you can do that with the stock room.
i mean, install apps (the free ones at amazon app store) or install from unknown sources. or sideload them.
kindle fire outside us
I am living in germany. Yes, small money for a great tablet once its rooted and you side loaded whatever you are interested it. Without routing it, its a crippled and restricted amazon content using device only.
But rooting it its really easy, if you are able to read and understand a little bit.
I now can watch movies, listen music, read colored ebooks or any pdf file and play games like nova2 or other stuff. the tablet runs smooth and imho its the best bang for the buck available on the market.
I am not interested in amazon content a lot, but i can buy books or videos there if i really want to or use the amazon services while being temporarily "unrooted".
I didnt made it possible to view streamed videos and using the cloud, but to be honest, i dont like the idea to put personal data on a public server or show people what i like to read and view, i am happy to be private. I am using my pc as a streaming server or just download some videos into the storage every now and then. Its good enough for 5-6 videos plus a ****load of books and music.
But look around.. there is so much other content availabe on the internet, you will not get bored in 10 years, so who really needs amazon?
I really prefer to sideload anything via wifi or usb cable which works great and isnt that difficult. I have a lot of fun and for sure I saved a lot of money not buying an expensive high end tablet.
The kindle fire just dont have gps, vibrator, camera, microfon and bluetooth. If you really want that dont buy the kindle fire.
I personally have a small mobile phone just for that so i dont need to use a tablet as a phone and i also have a highend digital camera so wtf why i need a camera on my tablet ? (google for wifi tethering, works great). They are not good anyway even on the most expensive tablets on the market compared to a real one.
But i am pretty sure someone will find a solution for that somehow.
I have it and I love it. I live in Bosnia and have no problems with it. Great little thing for a good price.
usurpine said:
I am living in germany. Yes, small money for a great tablet once its rooted and you side loaded whatever you are interested it. Without routing it, its a crippled and restricted amazon content using device only.
But rooting it its really easy, if you are able to read and understand a little bit.
I now can watch movies, listen music, read colored ebooks or any pdf file and play games like nova2 or other stuff. the tablet runs smooth and imho its the best bang for the buck available on the market.
I am not interested in amazon content a lot, but i can buy books or videos there if i really want to or use the amazon services while being temporarily "unrooted".
I didnt made it possible to view streamed videos and using the cloud, but to be honest, i dont like the idea to put personal data on a public server or show people what i like to read and view, i am happy to be private. I am using my pc as a streaming server or just download some videos into the storage every now and then. Its good enough for 5-6 videos plus a ****load of books and music.
But look around.. there is so much other content availabe on the internet, you will not get bored in 10 years, so who really needs amazon?
I really prefer to sideload anything via wifi or usb cable which works great and isnt that difficult. I have a lot of fun and for sure I saved a lot of money not buying an expensive high end tablet.
The kindle fire just dont have gps, vibrator, camera, microfon and bluetooth. If you really want that dont buy the kindle fire.
I personally have a small mobile phone just for that so i dont need to use a tablet as a phone and i also have a highend digital camera so wtf why i need a camera on my tablet ? (google for wifi tethering, works great). They are not good anyway even on the most expensive tablets on the market compared to a real one.
But i am pretty sure someone will find a solution for that somehow.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
But it isnt possible sideload without root?
I cant still play all the movies, music, etc i want with a unrooted kindle fire. And i really enjoy the curated amazon app store. If i need any other app i just download it on fire and install. or sideload.
So if i just want to play movies, listen music, read books watch docs, why i need to root my kindle?
@therethere. You do not need root to sideload. I upload my apks to dropbox and then download to Kindle. The only reason I might decide to root is to change lockscreen and perhaps use a different launcher.
I'd really love a thread in this forum with everything you need to know to run your Kindle Fire outside US without rooting
LilaLurch said:
Same here from germany, it works fine!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How that? I can't get it to work. Is there a chance to do it without rooting?
I'd prefer to sideload what I need, but it doesn't work.
Any tips?
Thanx in Advnce..
Dirk
dmenker said:
How that? I can't get it to work. Is there a chance to do it without rooting?
I'd prefer to sideload what I need, but it doesn't work.
Any tips?
Thanx in Advnce..
Dirk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you cant follow the tipps here in this forum, try with watching this videos from here: http://www.kindlefirewire.com/2011/11/16/how-to-root-kindle-fire-video-tutorial/
Not necessary to root.
Use a usb cable to sideload android apps. Most apps work.
Usa account and credit card(sample) for free Amazon apps.
Vpn for streaming.
Go launcher makes Fire a "real"Android.
I couldn't be happier with mine. In barely a month since release, it's now overclockable, CM7 running near perfectly, and a touch recovery coming tonight.
Since I got mine at release, my grandparents are buying three as gifts, my Dad might get one and I'm getting one for my Mom for Christmas.
Kindle Fire is easily one of the best value tablets out there. It's freakin awesome.
it shouldn't matter if your in India or anywhere. get one.
Chiwaz said:
I'd really love a thread in this forum with everything you need to know to run your Kindle Fire outside US without rooting
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There aren't really a lot of steps:
-Just enable install from unknown sources in the Kindle settings
-Install a file manager from the browser: search for and download the .apk of any known android file manager
-Copy the desired apps via USB
-Install via file manager
What you can do with the Kindle outside the USA without rooting is:
-Browse the web
-Buy and read Kindle books
-Copy via USB and read documents (.DOC and PDF)
-Everything else that allows the apps installed by yourself
I just love my kindle(/s), even I'm not able to use unblock-us properly to see Prime videos.
I don't care about gps, camera or 3g (even with it, I'd never make another contract, tethering is enough for me). All things I already have on the phone.
I just miss bluetooth, because I'd like to use a keyboard with this device and that's the only way to plug one, so far.
- Reading pdf (for simple books I usually use the other kindle);
- Newspapers;
- RSS, web browsing;
- Listen some music, radio or watching some TVs when I'm cooking, shaving or taking a shower;
- And yes, play some games sometimes (Tetris is freaking me out );
All stuff I was already able to do with the phone, but way more enjoyable on a tablet, without concern about battery life, on a big and beautiful screen, and better speakers.
And finally, I love the fact I don't need to carry it in a bag or a nerdy cover. Just my freaking pocket.

Amazon announces the Fire TV Stick

Amazon has announced the Fire TV Stick this morning. It is capable of the full Fire TV experience. It's $39, but for 2 days only Prime members can pre-order it for $19. It has 1GB RAM, 8GB storage, a dual-core processor, and dual band MIMO wifi.
It comes with a basic remote that doesn't support voice search, although it is compatible with both the voice remote and game controller. There is no ethernet or optical audio. It cannot be powered through HDMI, so it needs external power.
Here is a comparison chart.
Since xmas is coming...
This could be a too much of a wish, but I was wondering sth:
I have a Motorola Lapdock and I see people use that device with the andorid TV sticks together as a portable laptop/tablet kinda device. I was looking for those sticks but most of them have bad reviews and outdated hardware for today. Amazon's fire stick make me excited, because the very first thing come to my mind, hacking this stick, install an android OS and use with Motorola Lapdock as a portable laptop.
I wonder such thing would be possible with this device. I ordered 2 with this great introduction price, and I am waiting to hear from you if such wish would become true?!?!?!
(santa hear me!)
What's the chance of being able to sideload apps, install Google Play Store, root it, etc?
I ordered one and may order more (even at $40) to replace a couple of ATV2s around the house which are running XBMC. My main hope is for MHL/HDMI-CEC control allowing for at least basic control through the TV remote... otherwise I won't be buying more than the one because I use Harmony remotes in pretty much every room in the house and won't allow the addition of something like LIRC or other IR receivers like the full Fire TV does. Even if I can't sideload full XBMC, I'll be fine running SPMC which is already free in the Fire TV section of the Amazon App Store, or even PLEX as a worst-case as it's already confirmed for the Fire TV Stick.
Would live something like this where i can simply install openelec and boot straight into xbmc.
Also looks like this is only for USA members which sucks lol. I have amazon prime but UK
Pre-ordered. I hope I can get XBMC on it
just ordered 2, $40 is a steal for two of them!! This will look good right next to my FireTv, Ouya, Mojo, chromecast and nexus player.....wait how many ports does my TV have?!?! lol
I would order a few of these if they would ship to Canada but unfortunately they don't. I even have a US prime membership. If anyone would be willing to ship me a couple please PM me. I'll pay for shipping, etc. no problem. I would really like to get in on the 19$ deal they have on right now.
For what its worth, it does run on android. Exactly the same as the Fire TV does apparently.
This is from their Dev Channel: https://developer.amazon.com/public...-in-the-Living-Room-with-Amazon-Fire-TV-Stick
Can this mirror my android screen without wifi present? or with a wifi router that has no internet?
I work at a fire station which has no internet, i have a data signal on my cell phone, but im not leaving my cell phone there when im not there. So can you connect an android device directly or if I have a spare router plugged in but not connected to anything? Or send videos from my GS5 to it?
Thanks!
I don't see it say that you have access to the App Store...do we have any confirmation that you can download/sideload apps to it? That one feature will make this either a great deal or just a good one.
I don't see it say that you have access to the App Store...do we have any confirmation that you can download/sideload apps to it? That one feature will make this either a great deal or just a good one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Id imagine it has some sort of app store as they mention gaming (200ish games) and i cant imagine they preloaded 200 games onto it with 8GB storage total.
I just ordered 2 @ $40 as well. Might even replace my Vizio Co-Star with one if it works well. Ashame the remote doesnt allow voice control but at $20 for the device and remote i wont complain. Also impressed this is stand alone unlike the Chromecast. Looks like my expected delivery isnt until Dec 10th though, almost a month after release
I just ordered one. Probably end up being a waste of money, I'm hopeful that Google Android TV will be better than FireTV in which case I'll swap out my current Roku/FTV boxes for GATV boxes, but for $20 I figured why not...
edit: My assumption is they are the same OS/functionality as the original Fire TV boxes, just lower hardware specs. If you can run something on the FTV you should be able to run it on the FTV streamer, possible performance issues aside. If you can side-load it on the FTV, you should be able to side-load it on the FTV steamer.
Maybe they add usb mass storage support to the fire tv now as there are not a lot of reasons to buy the fire tv instead of the new stick...
Eat it iPhone said:
Id imagine it has some sort of app store as they mention gaming (200ish games) and i cant imagine they preloaded 200 games onto it with 8GB storage total.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
200 games isn't a lot. It sounds like a reduced library App store.
I guess my line in the sand is whether we can get XBMC/SPMC on it, or not. I tried streaming from my desktop to the Chromecast before, and the latency was no bueno. I couldn't even watch it. Adb/sideloading function would make this thing scream.
My mother in law just picked up 1 for herself and one for me. Can't beat $20 a piece. Hopefully XBMC won't be a problem on the latest firmware.
BonezMontana said:
My mother in law just picked up 1 for herself and one for me. Can't beat $20 a piece. Hopefully XBMC won't be a problem on the latest firmware.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, no kidding. I wish that we knew this before I plunked down my $20 though.
spyder3 said:
Yeah, no kidding. I wish that we knew this before I plunked down my $20 though.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I bought it even tho I don't need it. $20 isn't anything tbh
spyder3 said:
Yeah, no kidding. I wish that we knew this before I plunked down my $20 though.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'll take my chances anyways though because I don't watch tv in the bedroom anyways unless I'm sick lol. I was gonna get the playstation tv until i heard the ps4 streaming sucks. So the roku stick was an alternative, since I have 2 of them in my kids rooms. I just wish I had the knowledge to unlock this thing lol. In regards to XBMC though I'm getting confused as I see that some users were able to get it to work by disabling some setting.
superkoal said:
Maybe they add usb mass storage support to the fire tv now as there are not a lot of reasons to buy the fire tv instead of the new stick...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Would be nice if they add usb storage to the FTV, that's my number one complaint. However, think of the FTV streaming stick like the Roku streaming stick. Cheaper, smaller, lower power cpu, no lan, and in the case of FTV no optical out. If our (my) assumptions about the FTV stick are correct, it will be a better option for a lot of people.

Nexus Player Still Worth It?

Hello,
I am interested in getting a Nexus Player. I love all of the customizations that can be done with it. I especially like the fact that you can install an internet browser and use a Logitech K400 with it. (with some mods and adapters I know) Only thing I am wondering is if this fall there will be a Gen 2 released along side the new Nexus 5 and 6? I would hate to buy one now and two months later, boom heres gen 2. Anyone have any input on this?
Also, I like the Forge TV but i don't believe it is nearly as customizable as the Nexus is it?
I haven't heard any rumors about a new Android TV device from Google. Even the Chromecast hasn't had a hardware update yet and that's been out for a lot longer than the Nexus Player. If there's a retailer near you that offers an extended return policy on a product like this, maybe that's something to consider if you're concerned about a new hardware announcement. I haven't used a Razer Forge TV but with the Nexus Player being so affordable and customizable, Google's current Android TV hardware is still a good choice and is worth buying.
Thank you for your response. I have looked all over for info on a Nexus Player Gen 2 and have found nothing myself. I just figured this was a good place to ask. I will go for the nexus player then. This helps making my new TV purchase a lot easier as well. No smart tv needed, just a tv with a Nice display panel.
I have both a Nexus Player and Forge TV. If you use Netflix, don't buy the Forge because after months it still doesn't have Netflix. Nexus Player works great. Hopefully one day the Forge TV will get Netflix because I would rather use it with its built in Ethernet port.
Sent from my XT1096 using Tapatalk
If you can get it for about $50 its absolutely worth it.
i regret my purchase. my netflix app barely ever works, and not that many major apps support it, like hbo, sling tv or amazon instant. you would be much better off with fire tv IMO, especially now cause you can sideload kodi and im pretty sure its easily rootable and you can get google services and play store installed now. it has a better remote and more conectivity too
not to mention that the fire tv 2 is rumored to being released soon
OP, I think it will depend on what use you will give the device you end up getting.
I'm running mine with the latest M Preview build and it works great.
I was able to load Kodi straight from the Play Store (thru the web version to be specific), as well as other apps (e.g. ES File Explorer, few emulators, etc.).
I have an 3-way splitter OTG cable for my Rii K12 Ultra Slim keyboard/mousepad and a 32GB flash drive.
Again, it will depend on your use....
thecrunked said:
i regret my purchase. my netflix app barely ever works, and not that many major apps support it, like hbo, sling tv or amazon instant. you would be much better off with fire tv IMO, especially now cause you can sideload kodi and im pretty sure its easily rootable and you can get google services and play store installed now. it has a better remote and more conectivity too
not to mention that the fire tv 2 is rumored to being released soon
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To counter this, the Fire TV is NOT easily rootable; you have to either have a very old firmware from a US only model, or be willing to solder parts to it. Google Play Services don't work well on it, and its still on 4.2.2 so a lot of apps from outside the Amazon store don't work. The new developer software is 5.1, but that makes accessing Kodi difficult as sideloaded apps remain hidden in a submenu of settings.
I'm trying to replace mine now, as I'm sick of working around Amazon's arbitrary limitations.
Thank you all for your input. I ended up getting a Nvidia Shield Console. I love it! The main reason I went with the Shield is because I currently have/use a 42" 4K TV. So it just made the most sense to me to get. I know a lot of content isnt broadcasted in 4K yet but some is with more to come. I have already watched some Netflix stuff in 4K. Looks awesome!!! The free Grid games are a nice touch as well. I have 100mbps net so Grid games run great! (I use wired connection, not WiFi)
I know you went another route. I bought the Nexus Player because I wanted to stop renting a cable box. I bought an HD HOMERUN PRIME and only rent a cable card from the cable company now. I found out the hard way that I can only watch "unprotected/ non DRM channels" on my computer. After searching a lot, I found that the HD HOMERUN VIEW app on android allows me to watch these channels (which is most of the channels worth watching). The Nexus Player utilizes this app and now I can watch all my channels with this on my big screen. Just thought I'd throw this in for those considering buying a Nexus Player.
Rektifying said:
Hello,
I am interested in getting a Nexus Player. I love all of the customizations that can be done with it. I especially like the fact that you can install an internet browser and use a Logitech K400 with it. (with some mods and adapters I know) Only thing I am wondering is if this fall there will be a Gen 2 released along side the new Nexus 5 and 6? I would hate to buy one now and two months later, boom heres gen 2. Anyone have any input on this?
Also, I like the Forge TV but i don't believe it is nearly as customizable as the Nexus is it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hell no
I spent about 80$ on mine and it was completely worthless. The app ecosystem is almost dead, the user interface is limited, no okay google all the time, nothing special at all. The only thing you can do is stream limited media. Just get a chromecast.
Twitchyleftarm said:
I spent about 80$ on mine and it was completely worthless. The app ecosystem is almost dead, the user interface is limited, no okay google all the time, nothing special at all. The only thing you can do is stream limited media. Just get a chromecast.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
you must not know what kodi is. do some googling.
I have a variety of streaming devices. But family acceptance is important. So Roku connected directly to the TV which is great for family. The Nexus Player rooted with custom ROM. Tvmb is the main application. It is connected to the home theater. For movies and live TV it is quite useful. But not as easy to use. So mostly I set it up.
Sent from my A0001 using XDA Free mobile app
---------- Post added at 01:47 PM ---------- Previous post was at 01:45 PM ----------
bradwatson said:
I have both a Nexus Player and Forge TV. If you use Netflix, don't buy the Forge because after months it still doesn't have Netflix. Nexus Player works great. Hopefully one day the Forge TV will get Netflix because I would rather use it with its built in Ethernet port.
Sent from my XT1096 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is a way with a custom ROM to use the USB port as an Ethernet connection with the Nexus Player.
Sent from my A0001 using XDA Free mobile app
[Deal Alert] Get A Nexus Player For Under $50 On Groupon (Down From $99.99)
A good deal. Worth it .
So I ended up buying a Nexus player for my 32" 1080P TV in my bedroom. I still have my Shield on my 4K in the living room, loving that! Just waiting for the new nexus phones to release so I can replace my iPhone, then I will be done with Apple. (I had an Apple TV that I sold and I currently have an iPhone 6 which is going to be replaced with the New Nexus 5 upon release)
Anyways, I loved the Nexus Player at first! I think it is pretty awesome! One issue, it will NOT wake from sleep. I tried everything! Clearing cache, factory reset after update. Anyone running CM12.1 on their Nexus player? How is that and will it fix sleep issue? Thanks!
Google has the factory images on their website. On my phone right now or I'd posta link. It's pretty easy though does everything for you. If that doesn't fix it then you've got a bad device and should exchange it.
Rektifying said:
So I ended up buying a Nexus player for my 32" 1080P TV in my bedroom. I still have my Shield on my 4K in the living room, loving that! Just waiting for the new nexus phones to release so I can replace my iPhone, then I will be done with Apple. (I had an Apple TV that I sold and I currently have an iPhone 6 which is going to be replaced with the New Nexus 5 upon release)
Anyways, I loved the Nexus Player at first! I think it is pretty awesome! One issue, it will NOT wake from sleep. I tried everything! Clearing cache, factory reset after update. Anyone running CM12.1 on their Nexus player? How is that and will it fix sleep issue? Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Glad you're enjoying your NP. I'm not sure if it is the CM12.1 ROM or not, but on the Android M Preview build I get a delay wake from sleep. The device takes a tad longer than the original firmware. Try reverting back to stock or using the Android M Preview build.
These are seeing pretty good price drops in the States. Walmart cleared these out for $39.99. Best Buy and others have them for $49.99.
I have Roku 1, 2, 3, Fire Stick, Ouya, Chromecast, RaspPi 2, Android PC Sticks, etc. The Ouya is my main gaming unit. But I like to buy these for traveling and toying with. Having the wife and kid used to the Rokus, I can see them easily picking this up and working with it.
If you are seriously looking for a TV Streamer box, you may want to wait. The Roku 4 and the new Nexus TV is coming out soon (October). The Roku has always been my fav for home use. It is simple and doesn't bombard you with Amazon or Google ads. It just works. The Nexus TV is pretty good too, although I plan to use it for personal uses such as emulation and a traveling companion.
I think for $50, it is awesome. Plus it is getting Android Marshmallow once the new one hits, so they will effectively run the same. The new one will just have a longer life. So it might be worth spending $99 on the new one and having a few more years of life on it.
I ended up returning my Nexus Player. I paid $69.99 +tax at Best Buy. About a week later I seen it at Walmart for $39.99. I did not re-purchase it yet though! The price drop tells me that a new one is on the way. So I am going to wait for the Nexus event on Tuesday (9/29) before I do anything. If there is a new one announced, I would guess that it would only receive a performance boost and 4k Support. If that is the case, I will just re-purchase the one I had. I only need it for the bedroom, and I do not see myself buying a 4K for my bedroom for a very long time, if ever.
I did unroot, lock the bootloader, and factory reset before I returned though. I'm sure they just threw it back on the shelf as an open box item.

Buyer's remorse?

Hey everybody.
I've been using media streamers for a bit.
Started with a Chromecast, then Amazon Fire stick and now with a Nexus Player.
Previous streamers felt limited but the nexus player felt better.
Now I've been thinking about upgrading to a Apple TV 4 or a Nvidia Shield tv.
My question is: Do you guys feel remorse of having bought this?
Performance aside is a bit expensive compared to other boxes.
I have a pc with a GTX970 and I was thinking maybe this will work to stream some games to my living room.
Another thing, how far away from a Shield TV 2 are we? This will surely have a price a drop when they announce the second gen, although while there is no much competition I think Nvidia will sit a bit.
You've had plenty of views but no replies...so I'll chip in lol
Do I regret buying one....no. The only thing that bothers me is how spartan the app store is for Android TV, obviously this can change in the future. If you already have a Nexus then you're already using Android TV. Is it expensive? Considering the price of the Fire TV gaming bundle...I actually think the 16GB model is priced well. I got the Nvidia remote free when I bought mine, you've literally just missed a promotion to get an extra controller. Perhaps you'd rather wait for another promotion before purchasing to get the most for your money. Buying the 16GB model and upgrading the storage via MicroSD or USB HDD would make the most sense rather than the expensive Pro model with 500GB.
Yes you can gamestream from your PC, this feature is under the SHIELD HUB...you could also try installing Moonlight which might offer slightly better performance. I've tried the Geforce NOW service and the games do play quite well to be fair. Although I will say for best results forget about wifi and hard wire the SHIELD to the router...even if you have to buy some inexpensive homeplug network adapters.
What I have done is install SPMC (KODI). I have customised it to work as a homescreen/dashboard essentially, it auto starts when I power on. This way I can set shortcuts to what I want...my retro arcade (Hyperspin), Shield Hub, Remote Play (PS4), Netflix, Radio, my movie and music collection on my home PC...you get the picture
I have no idea what Nvidia are planning. Although I would guess that we would see the Shield Tablet updated before we see a new SHIELD TV. The tablet still uses Kepler tech...the Shield TV is Maxwell. If there was a new SHIELD TV it would surely be based on Pascal
Do It
I was actually reconsidering the same like you also the apple tv.
Now I'm happy i choose the Shield! Nvidia allows you to unlock the bootloader and root the system without losing warranty, which is a great thing.
I wasn't happy with the Leanback launcher as there is a lot of stuff i don't like and the apps i installed via APK and Aptoide TV didn't show up (only with help of the sideload launcher).
So i rooted it and set a differnt launcher as default! now it is really great! I have adaway, Firefox with several adons and kodi with husham wizard!
The box is extremly fast! I have a logitech usbe mouse and keyboard connected and the box also works with my logitech universal remote.
Alsow with marshmello (shiled os 3.1) you can add a microsd with up to 128 GB to expand the internal storage!
I found an amazing app called "AirPlay/DLNA Receiver (PRO)" that you can use to mirror your tablet/mobile phone screen beside the standard YouTube casting
The only thing i'm not happy with is that it doesn't have a optical/coax audio output.
The apple tv is for sure much more limited and has by far not the game performance of the shield!
extra controller w/purchase @ gamestop. i do not know when the promotion ends, but as of this morning...its still there!
Pion33r said:
Do It
I wasn't happy with the Leanback launcher as there is a lot of stuff i don't like and the apps i installed via APK and Aptoide TV didn't show up (only with help of the sideload launcher).
So i rooted it and set a differnt launcher as default! now it is really great!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
doe the controllers still work when you root? I Heard some about trouble with that.
Pion33r said:
Do It
I wasn't happy with the Leanback launcher as there is a lot of stuff i don't like and the apps i installed via APK and Aptoide TV didn't show up (only with help of the sideload launcher). So i rooted it and set a differnt launcher as default! now it is really great! I have adaway, Firefox with several adons and kodi with husham wizard!
Maybe try SPMC, it's a fork of KODI. It's being developed with the SHIELD in mind. Unlike KODI, you can actually launch android apps from within SPMC (so you don't really need sideload launcher). It also integrates with the leanback launcher, providing recommendations from SPMC. Voice search from the launcher will also have links to your SPMC library. The voice feature also works with the keyboard in SPMC, so you can speak rather than type in the search box
I found an amazing app called "AirPlay/DLNA Receiver (PRO)" that you can use to mirror your tablet/mobile phone screen beside the standard YouTube casting
Airplay is for Apple devices, the SHIELD natively casts from android devices. I don't buy Apple stuff, so I've never tried it but KODI/SPMC has Airplay built in...just turn it on in the services. I'm glad to hear you're happy with the device...I always enjoy seeing the different ways people set them up and use them!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
foomanjackel said:
extra controller w/purchase @ gamestop. i do not know when the promotion ends, but as of this morning...its still there!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Here in the UK that promotion ended on the 1st of May. If it's still available to you guys "across the pond"...that's great! Good looking out
discocandy said:
doe the controllers still work when you root? I Heard some about trouble with that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I haven't rooted my SHIELD. I could be wrong but I think the controller issues were more to do with people flashing a different ROM after rooting...the SHIELD game pad would need to be wired for example, although that may have changed by now. As we are talking about game pads. One of the reasons root would appeal to me, is that it's required for the Sixaxis app. This app will allow the DS4 pad to connect via bluetooth (lag free), as I have the Remote Play app installed this would be nice.
My phone is rooted with a custom ROM and recovery. I don't really feel that I need say an Adblocker on the SHIELD TV to be fair. Of course there are plenty of other good reasons to root the device. In fairness I am at a point now where I know how I want the devices to be, so the thought of wiping it and doing it over "properly" is getting more appealing. Rooting would help me fix a few niggling things...for example I really would like to be able to manually add the MAME 2014 core to Retroarch, I need this core for my Retro Arcade but the buildbot for Retroarch won't add it currently.
Wish you all the best playing with your devices
discocandy said:
doe the controllers still work when you root? I Heard some about trouble with that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No trouble at all. I'm on the latest version of Shield os (3.1 Marshmello). What i relly love is that now i can even use Titanium backup
Next step - Xposed
foomanjackel said:
extra controller w/purchase @ gamestop. i do not know when the promotion ends, but as of this morning...its still there!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i actually bought mine @ gamestop in my town about 3 weeks ago. it is the 16gb version w/one controller included.... returned it today for a full refund (they put the amount on a gift card) and have just re-ordered the same unit from their website where it is the same price but now includes 2 controllers. used the gift card as payment and am just paying the shipping fee. should have the new one in a few days.
The controller works fine if you root. However, if you install a custom ROM, you will need to connect the controller to the Shield with a micro-USB cable.
The only real problem I have with the Shield is that Android TV is not nearly as capable as full Android.
Thanks a lot guys.
Hopefully I can sell my nexus player with my x360 pad on it and recoup some money for the shield tv.
foomanjackel said:
extra controller w/purchase @ gamestop. i do not know when the promotion ends, but as of this morning...its still there!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is that online?
Share a link please.
Silenus21 said:
Is that online?
Share a link please.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, online only. Bought mine in store 3 weeks ago with one controller. Returned yesterday for full refund which they put on a gift card. Used gift card at home to purchase online w/the extra controller. I'll be without unit for a few days while waiting for the new one, but I dont mind the wait if I can get a unit with the extra $60 controller
http://m.gamestop.com/browse/search?searchTerm=Nvidia
Thanks.
But sucks they don't take my paypal from outside USA.
And they are expensive on Ebay.
Wait, Amazon has it with the second controller for 200.
http://www.amazon.com/NVIDIA-SHIELD...d=1463060240&sr=8-1&keywords=nvidia+shield+tv
Silenus21 said:
Thanks.
But sucks they don't take my paypal from outside USA.
And they are expensive on Ebay.
Wait, Amazon has it with the second controller for 200.
http://www.amazon.com/NVIDIA-SHIELD...d=1463060240&sr=8-1&keywords=nvidia+shield+tv
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Great!! :good:
Using the 16gb model on my Sony Bravia TV with matching home theater setup with TV remote function with all shield apps including Kodi.
Missed out on free remote offer but pleasantly surprised that original TV remote gives me full functionality and more.
My only regret is that I didn't get it sooner. [emoji13]
My roku3 is collecting dust big time.
Have not subscribed to cable since 2010. Before shield was running MK-908 and was happy with setup, but the shield blows everything else out of the water.
Pp.
sent from my stone/stock S6e using microwave technology.
Yes I love mine the only thing I dislike is I bought the Pro model and you don't have full access to the HD unless you do some skull doggery. If it were easy to put a SSD in it and actually be able to hook it up to my pc that thing would be totally awesome 10/10 but alas you can't. I say get the 16GB model and go from there.
Thanks guys, got mine today.
Now to read some guides on rooting this thing.
Silenus21 said:
Thanks guys, got mine today.
Now to read some guides on rooting this thing.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
fairly simple guide here:
http://nvidiashieldzone.com/shield-android-tv/nvidia-shield-tv-16gb-root-m/
* be sure to have a usb mouse ready....you'll need it to make the "swipe to flash" when you are in TWRP. i tried a keyboard (with trackpad), the remote and even the phone app....but only the mouse would work for that step.
Thanks.
Rooted it yesterday.
Only having trouble setting up Dolphin, can't configure the shield controller and can't find an ini online.
I bought my shield to run as a Plex server because all Plex could talk about was "Shield is THE server..." It's not until you get it running that you learn that is cannot do a lot of things that my PC server handles easily. Then you find out that there's no Music Plus and missing transcoders and, btw, I hope you still have that PC because you will need it to manage your Shield Plex Server and migrate your media. Oh, and wait until you learn about file sharing with the Shield...allow yourself a little time! The punchline is that performance is tame. I do not serve 4K media, but 1080p was great from the PC that runs as a vm with 4GB.
And I made the mistake of tossing an extra remote and the (very cool and expensive) stand in my cart.
Oh well. I really need to start playing games.

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