Now that the Nvidia Shield Android TV has been released, Nvidia is doing what any good game console maker would do and is working to improve the software side of the game system. The updates released today focus on a few games, a handful of apps and some general system updates.
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The focus of these updates is the Nvidia Shield Android TV, which has only been out for a short time now. Most of the updates to the console in Software Upgrade 1.2 are small tweaks that users may or may not notice, but the update also improves the Nvidia GameStream service and the responsiveness of the Shield Remote. These updates will likely be more pronounced and provide a smoother experience for users.
In addition to the system updates, Nvidia announced that four apps for streaming sports (Fox Sports GO, EPIX, CBS News, CBS Sports) have now been made available for the Shield in Google Play. Nvidia said these apps are available now to complement the Android TV service, which will soon be ported to Shield, and there is a larger pool of popular media that users can stream.
Finally, the Shield received four game updates in Upgrade 1.2. Machinarium is a new title Nvidia is testing for the Shield that can be accessed through the testing page. In addition to the new game, Game of Thrones HD has been updated to 1080p resolutions, Doom 3: BFG is now available in the Play Store, and Trine 2 currently is running a special on the game for $4.95.
These updates aren't major, but providing regular software updates to devices is an essential service that all game console makers need to do. Though game consoles work from day one, it is this meticulous fine tuning that keep game consoles in use for years to come.
The updates add features, smooth the interface, and provide essential changes to make playing the latest games possible, and without them a console will ultimately lose traction with users. This update shows that Nvidia will follow other game console makers and work to keep the Shield running smoothly, at least for the time being.
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