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Introduction
Despite its reputation as one of the best streamers on the market, the Nvidia Shield is beginning to show its age in both hardware and software. Let’s speculate on some key updates and features a new generation of the Nvidia Shield could include while exploring the improvements we would like to see.
History
The original Nvidia Shield, released in 2015, marked Nvidia’s entry into Android-based gaming consoles and streaming devices. Powered by the Tegra X1 chip, it quickly became popular for both gaming and 4K HDR streaming. In 2017, Nvidia updated the Shield with a slimmer design and new controller, adding features like Google Assistant voice control.
In 2019, the Nvidia Shield series was refreshed with the Shield TV and Shield TV Pro models, offering Dolby Vision HDR, AI upscaling, and a compact, cost-effective design for the base model. Despite these advancements, no new models have been released since, and the current lineup is starting to lag in features and hardware.
I used the Shield TV 2019 from 2019 to 2021 before upgrading to the Shield Pro 2019 for Plex. I found Shield devices to be the best non-Apple streaming boxes, thanks to their use of Google TV and extensive settings and features.
Hardware Changes
We can infer that the new generation of Nvidia Shield devices will likely follow the same lineup as the previous generation, with distinct roles for each model.
The Shield TV will continue to focus on being an excellent streaming device, tailored for users who primarily want to enjoy high-quality video and audio content from popular streaming services coupled with being the more cost effective option.
On the other hand, the Shield Pro will retain its position as a more comprehensive media hub, designed for power users who need additional features and capabilities. The Shield Pro will likely offer expanded storage options, greater processing power, and enhanced connectivity to support a wider range of activities, including gaming, media server functions, and smart home integration.
More Power
The most obvious change people would expect in a new generation of the Nvidia Shield series is a more powerful chip, as the current generation’s chip is almost 10 years old. Over the past decade, chips have become significantly faster and more power-efficient, so a new, more powerful chip is practically a given if Nvidia decides to release a new model.
There are rumors that Nvidia is working on an ARM-based chip, and it is possible that the new Shield could be the first product to feature this chip, though this is just speculation. What is probably a given is a chip that has much more general compute cores as well as a section dedicated to AI functions.
What would all of this new power bring to the table? Higher frame rates with VRR, maybe 4K 120hz gaming, better upscaling and possible SDR to HDR conversion. We will touch on this more in the software section.
Expandable Storage
Currently, both Shield devices have access to expandable “slow” storage. I use the term “slow” because in the case of the Shield TV, you can expand the storage with a microSD card, and with the Shield Pro, you can add an external SSD or HDD. Both the microSD and USB protocols are forms of slow storage compared to onboard SSDs or NVMe storage that use PCIe connectors and protocols.
Why does storage speed matter? Ask anyone who has tried to load a large file from any external drive, especially video games. Load times were one of the main marketing points of the PS5, which significantly reduced load times with its ultra-fast SSD. Faster storage can drastically improve the user experience by reducing the time it takes to launch apps, load games, and access media files. It also improves overall system responsiveness, making the device feel quicker and more efficient.
I hope the new Shield Pro model includes at least one user-replaceable PCIe storage slot at least 2242 in size, as it should be feasible to fit. Many handheld gaming devices and laptops now use PCIe drives. Adding a PCIe slot would future-proof the Shield Pro, allowing for easy storage upgrades and ensuring it can handle increasing data demands. This would make the device more versatile and capable of managing the latest software and media with ease.
Image of 1TB NVMe Drive into a Steam Deck handheld gaming device.
However, for the cylindrical form factor of the Shield TV, a microSD slot remains the best option, so advancements in storage technology there are unlikely if Nvidia wants to keep size.
The Remote/Controller
There is not much wrong with the remote except for the giant Netflix button. Granted, I know it was probably used to help subsidize the cost of the project, with Netflix likely paying for that button. The one change to the remote would be the ability to reprogram that button to whatever I want, even if I still have to see the big red “Netflix.”
Others have pointed out that the triangular shape is undesirable because it does not sit flat on a surface, but this does not personally impact me much. I find that the design is great to hold onto and fits really well in my hand. If Nvidia had to choose between adding another feature or redesigning the remote, I would rather have another feature.
As for the controller, a welcomed refresh would be nice, but seeing as you can already pair any Bluetooth controller, it may not be a good investment for Nvidia as there is a large universal game controller market there so there is no reason to have a first party one. As it is already, when I play games on it, I pair an Xbox One controller and use that. I have also been able to connect a full keyboard and mouse, as I am more accustomed to that setup for some games.
Software
Why has the Shield remained one of the best streaming devices on the market? Because it not only has a powerful processor, but also knows how to put all of that power to use.
At the time of release of the 2019 models, the Shield’s software was the most flexible device on the market, offering users far more settings and features than most similar devices even today. We can expect them to improve on those key features and hopefully add a few newer ones.
Better Upscaling
I have no doubt that we will see a much better AI upscaling feature in the new Shield models. One of the big selling points of the Shield is the inclusion of an upscaling feature that was best in class at the time of its release. With the current explosion of AI in the tech space, Nvidia has made significant advancements in AI upscaling technology for both games and video for their own graphics cards.
Video
In terms of video, Nvidia has developed Video Super Resolution (VSR), which enhances the clarity and detail of lower-resolution browser content, making it look nearly as sharp as native high-resolution 4K video. This technology utilizes AI algorithms to fill in the gaps, creating smoother and more realistic 4K content compared to other upscaling technology. Currently, it is available for the Nvidia RTX series GPUs and is not perfect yet. However, it is likely that if Nvidia is working on a new Shield, they are probably developing an optimized version of VSR for it.
Gaming
For gaming, Nvidia’s Deep Learning Super Sampling (DLSS) is a technology that uses AI to upscale lower-resolution frames in real-time, delivering higher frame rates and improved graphics quality without the same performance costs as rendering at native resolutions. The way this works is say you want to game at 4K with 60fps but your graphics card is only able to push 30fps. What you can do is turn DLSS on to drop the native resolution to 1440 @ 60fps, and then let DLSS upscale it to 4K 60fps. I think this feature would be huge in the Shield as it could mean really impressive performance in a tiny package, but be able to keep up with the bigger consoles in image quality and frame rates.
Image Credit: Nvidia
The current state of both upscaling features is not without quirks and tends to be a bit power-hungry, which is not good for a small form factor box. However, if they were optimized for the new Shield series, they could allow Nvidia to keep the same small form factor while greatly improving its gaming and video features. While it is unknown to what extent these features would be added, it is likely we will see some form of them present on the new Shield.
To learn more about these features, check out these two videos by Linus Tech Tips that showcase exactly what they are like today: DLSS Video, VSR Video.
VRR
Another feature I would expect to see on the new Shield series is variable refresh rate (VRR). The reason for this is that even lower cost TVs now include this feature. VRR is a technology that allows the refresh rate of a TV or monitor to dynamically adjust to match the frame rate output of the content being displayed. This synchronization reduces screen tearing and stuttering, providing a smoother and more visually appealing gaming and viewing experience. Given the increasing popularity of VRR, it makes sense for the new Shield series to include this feature to stay competitive and offer enhanced performance, particularly for gamers and those streaming high-motion content.
This feature, or the lack thereof, had been a sore spot for me when I owned my Epson 5040UB. The projector could display 4K HDR, but only at 30Hz due to its HDMI port. One would think that setting my Shield Pro to 4K 30Hz would solve the problem. However, this caused native 60Hz platforms like Amazon Prime Video and YouTube to stutter a few times every minute. The issue was only resolved if I set it back to 4K 60Hz but this would mean I would lose the HDR option on all apps. This required me to manually switch settings every time I wanted to watch something in HDR.
Better Gaming
One of the major appeals of the Nvidia Shield was its versatility as an all-in-one media device, capable of serving as both a video streaming hub and a gaming console. While it never boasted the raw power of the most advanced consoles, it successfully handled less demanding titles, making it a popular choice among casual gamers as it was half the price of the common consoles. However, as time has passed, the Shield’s gaming capabilities have started to lag behind its competitors.
With the rise of sophisticated handheld gaming devices like the Nintendo Switch and Valve’s Steam Deck, Nvidia faces both a challenge and an opportunity. To retain and attract gamers, Nvidia must significantly improve the Shield’s gaming experience, focusing on more than just increasing its power, to stand out in a crowded market.
One way to do that is to make GeForce Now, Nvidia’s cloud gaming platform, a great service to have. GeForce Now allows Shield users to stream a vast library of games directly from Nvidia’s servers at different quality depending on the package. This service offers several advantages, such as accessibility from multiple devices, high-quality graphics through cloud computing, and a broad game library including many AAA titles. It’s not the cheapest games on demand service but considering that you can use it on almost any device, it very well could be worth the surcharge. It is highly likely that we would GeForce Now be a major part of the new New Shield lineup and have the best integration features. It does appear that Nvidia is still investing which is a good sign for a new modern Shield.
Another gaming improving could be the Shield’s ability to integrate with Steam. Currently, the Shield can stream games from a PC to the Shield via Steam Link, but the experience can be inconsistent. Improving this integration could offer a more seamless interface, better cross-platform play, and direct access to Steam’s extensive game library. This one is a huge wish, but unlikely as steam (Valve) is now direct competitor with the release of the Steam Deck.
Quick Feature Wishlist
These are features that I would like to see in the version of the Shield but do not warrant there own explanation:
- HDMI 2.1 or the Latest HDMI Standard: Shield Pro/Shield TV
- 8GB RAM for Shield TV and 16GB RAM for Shield Pro
- Bluetooth 5.3 Support: Shield Pro/Shield TV
- WiFi 6E or WiFi 7: Shield Pro/Shield TV
- Ethernet 2.5Gb (Shield TV) or 10Gb (Shield Pro)
- 4K 120Hz Gaming: Shield Pro
- AV1 Hardware Video Encoding
- 2x USB4 (Type-C): Shield Pro
- Full Google TV Instead of Android TV: Shield Pro/Shield TV
- Compatibility with All Latest Video and Audio Formats: Shield Pro/Shield TV
- 8K Upscaler: Shield Pro
- YouTube HDR Support: Shield Pro/Shield TV
- HDMI Pass-Through: Shield Pro
Will There Be a New Model?
The Shield TV and Shield Pro are great devices but after 5 years they are slowly being beaten by more and more modern devices. I would hate for the product line to disappear into obsolete tech as it fills the perfect role for many home theaters. However, the question remains though, is there enough of a market out there for Nvidia to spend the R&D money to make a new model or is this market being swallowed up by other display and gaming manufacturers?
My hope is that there is enough of a market left for these products and that in the fall, after CEDIA 2024, I will be writing another article about the exciting new features of a refreshed Nvidia Shield. You can bet I will be getting it as soon as I can. However, it has been five years since the last refresh, and I might be getting my hopes up for nothing. It is very possible that Nvidia’s AI business has become too big for them to focus on anything else.
Feel free to leave a comment below if there is a feature that you would like see in an updated Shield Lineup.
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Agree. My kingdom for a Shield that adds HDMI 2.1 and support for all HDR formats. My HT is powered by a 2015 (!) model for local game streaming, local file playback, music and all major streaming services.
If it’s going to happen, it’ll likely only happen when the Nintendo Switch 2 is finalized and released.
It’s long overdue, but don’t bet on a new model coming out. Nvidia is not savvy enough to understand this new streaming market not to put out a new and more cost effective piece of hardware that the majority of us could afford
Thank you for sharing your thoughts. I agree a new model is overdue, and given Nvidia’s recent product trends, with their focus shifting from gaming to AI, it does seem unlikely that we’ll see another great device soon. But we can’t always be doom and gloom, and I believe there’s still a chance Nvidia recognizes the demand for another device in this market.
The Shield has a loyal following, and with the evolving streaming and handheld gaming market, it would be a missed opportunity not to innovate further. Let’s keep our fingers crossed and hope for something exciting.
I have arthritis and own a nvidia shield pro,I would like to see the remote control be made in the candy bar shape like the TV manufacturers make,the triangle seems like a gimmick that I always fumble with
Thank you so much for sharing your experience! I hadn’t considered how the triangular design of the remote might be challenging for someone with arthritis. While I personally find the remote comfortable to hold, I understand it may not be ideal for everyone.
You might want to explore some third-party universal remotes that work with the Shield Pro and have a more traditional design. They could offer the ease of use you’re looking for. If you need any help finding one or have any other questions, feel free to ask. I’m here to help!
If it helps any, you can download an app for your android phone and use it for your Nvidia remote. I had the batteries die in my remote I bought off Amazon and didn’t have any batteries on hand, I searched the play store and found a remote app that works well, it uses Bluetooth so be sure you have Bluetooth enabled on your phone.
You can remap the Netflix and other special buttons with an app called Button Mapper. Basic functions are free, but to remap Netflix and other features, it’s $4.99. You can even launch three applications with one button.
Thank you for sharing this tip! I will have to try this out! This is a good solution, but hopefully, we can have this feature included in the next model so we don’t have to rely on the community to make up for Nvidia’s business choices.
The Shield stutters with new high birate content. It’s infrequent and I bet most people don’t notice or care. But a dropped frame every 40 seconds is really annoying on a huge dedicated home theater. The Apple TV doesn’t do this but it’s not as good as the Nvidia shield in other areas, like high end audio. I don’t want to think it but the shield might just be a one time diamond in the rough.
I have occasionally noticed the stuttering as well. I agree, it’s one of those annoying issues that bugs the heck out of us enthusiasts, but most people won’t even notice. I’m sure this will go away if we get a new one, as the chips will be much more powerful to handle this. I am in the same boat; I don’t want it to be a one-time treasure, but it just might be.
If a new Shield doesn’t show up, the Apple TV might be the only good low-cost media player option left (I do not like the Roku OS or Fire TV OS). There are more “audiophile/videophile” players coming out, but they are much more expensive and beyond what I would consider affordable for the mass market, and they definitely can’t game.
How are people not jumping all over the opportunity to make a better device in this kind of market
My guess is that standalone streaming devices are becoming a niche market, as most consumer displays now have built-in streaming capabilities. Nvidia would likely need to make the next version more of a console rather than just a streaming device. However, Google recently released a new Chromecast, indicating that they still see value in this market so honestly anything can happen. Still keeping my hopes of for CEDIA this year.
I have heard that Giogle is killing Chromecast and focusing on a new media streamer inspired by the nVidia Shield Pro… so watch this space!
Google is discontinuing devices that only have Chromecast capabilities. They’ve introduced two new devices: the Chromecast 4K with Google TV, a dedicated streamer running Google TV OS, and the more powerful Google TV Streamer, which can handle smart home functionalities on top of being just a streamer.
While this might seem similar to Nvidia’s strategy, the Google TV Streamer doesn’t match the Shield in terms of features. It offers only 32GB of storage and the ability to control Matter devices but lacks USB ports, expandable storage, and mentions of gaming capabilities or offline content playback. As reviews come in, we’ll gain a clearer picture of these devices’ capabilities, but the absence of these features at launch and on the website doesn’t bode well for those looking to replace their Shield. After all, the features it lacks are what make the Shield a favorite among users.
Despite this, these developments are promising for the market, and Google clearly sees potential here. Hopefully, this is a sign of more exciting devices coming this fall.
I have bought a couple Shield Pros and left them in the box in case mine breaks for some reason. Those should last me the rest of my life. NVIDIA will never update the Shield, and it will be the first and last box that can bitstream Atmos and DTSX etc. from Plex.